Posts

Stars, Signs, and Sartre: An Existentialist Critique of Astrology

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Note: As a teacher of decision-making and a militant atheist who loves to poke fun at astrology, I find existentialism particularly fascinating. This philosophical movement’s emphasis on individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the creation of one’s own meaning resonates deeply with my views. Unlike astrology, which attributes our actions and personalities to the stars, existentialism empowers us to shape our own destinies and live authentically. It’s this focus on authenticity and the human capacity for self-determination that draws me to existentialist thought, making it a compelling framework for understanding and navigating the complexities of life.  And to my friends who believe we’re all living in the Matrix: the same applies to you! Whether it’s the stars or a computer simulation, existentialism reminds us that it’s up to us to create our own meaning and live authentically. So, whether you’re dodging astrological predictions or virtual bullets, remember: you are the ...

The Matrix: The New Religion for the Digital Age?

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The MatriX: The New Religion for the Digital Age? Sometimes I wonder if my neighbors are NPCs. They always seem to be doing the same thing every day. Maybe they’re just stuck in a loop! Have you ever bumped into an old friend and thought, "Wow, what are the odds?" Well, some folks out there believe this is proof that we’re living in a giant video game, a simulation, or as they like to call it, "The Matrix." Yes, you heard that right. Forget divine intervention; it’s all about the cosmic code now! The Matrix: A Modern-Day Deity? Choosing between the red pill and the blue pill is like deciding whether to update your software now or later. Either way, you’re in for a ride! Let’s break it down. Replace the word "Matrix" with "God," and suddenly, the beliefs of these Matrix enthusiasts start sounding eerily familiar. Just like traditional religions, the Matrix theory provides a comforting structure, a grand design to make sense of the chaos around us....

Why I’m Not Buying the Supernatural Sale

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Why I’m Not Buying the Supernatural Sale Let’s get one thing straight: I’m part of nature, we all are part as nature, we are as natural as they come. I am a part of nature, just like a carrot or a tree.  I’m so natural, I make granola look like a high-tech gadget. So when people start talking about things that are ‘ supernatural ’ or ‘ metaphysical ,’ I can’t help but raise an eyebrow. Or both. I do not believe in mysterious forces or "energies," just as I do not believe in ghosts or shamanic powers. Now, I’m not saying I don’t enjoy a good ghost story . Who doesn’t love a tale of a haunted toaster ? But when it comes to real life, I’m firmly grounded in the here and now. I’m a liberal humanist, which is just a fancy way of saying I believe in people. And not in a “I believe in fairies” kind of way. More like, “I believe we’ve got this, team human!” You see, I reckon all the good, the bad, and the ugly of the universe is packed inside us humans . If we were to vanish tomorrow...

Avatar, Pocahontas, a Romanian Philosopher and The Myth of the Noble Savage: the Story Behind a Dangerous Cliché

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The myth of the noble savage is a story that some people believe about indigenous peoples. It’s the idea that people who live in traditional societies, close to nature, are more innocent and good than people in modern societies . It’s like saying they are like superheroes of goodness because they haven’t been changed by cities and technology. But this is not fair because it makes it seem like these people are not fully human with their own complex lives and choices. It’s important to remember that all people, no matter where they live, are capable of both great and not-so-great things , just like everyone else. The Noble Savage: A Troublesome Cliché  The concept of my blog is to humorously challenge myths while maintaining respect. Today, I address the lasting and intriguing notion of the "Noble Savage" myth. Let’s set the scene: Imagine a world where the “noble savage” is not just a character in an outdated screenplay but a stereotype that’s been invited to dinner and is n...

Why I’m Not My Ancestor’s Keeper. And I'm NOT responsible for the extinction of the dinosaurs!

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In a recent debate with a Slovenian guest, she expressed shame and embarrassment for being a Western white person, in light of the historical crimes attributed to white people. I countered that I am accountable only for my own actions and words, rejecting the biblical notion of inheriting the sins of one's ancestors, especially given that we have had millions of them.  My message is clear: personal responsibility is paramount, and the past should inform, not dictate, our present. Why I’m Not My Ancestor’s Keeper In today’s world, where the past is often a click away, there’s a growing conversation about collective responsibility. It’s a notion that suggests we carry the weight of our ancestors’ actions on our shoulders, like a family heirloom that’s too heavy to put down. But here’s the thing: I didn’t choose the heirloom, and I certainly didn’t sign up to be its eternal caretaker. The Great-Great-Grandparent Clause Let’s get one thing straight: my great-great-grandparents were the...

Time Traveler’s Etiquette: Why Judging the Past by Today’s Standards is a Slippery Slope (or why we should rename Colombia to "Shakiria")

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In this blog entry, I aim to dive into the complexities surrounding the historical context and contemporary values related to the "invasion" of Brazil, a topic of debate with a Brazilian friend.  The Great Time Travel Tribunal - Judging the Past by Today’s Standards  Dear history buffs and time travelers! Have you ever strapped on your virtual reality goggles, dialed back the clock a few centuries, and found yourself utterly appalled by the fashion choices of the 1700s ? “What’s with all the wigs and corsets?” we cry from the comfort of our yoga pants and hoodies. But before we start canceling our ancestors for their questionable taste in attire, let’s take a moment to consider the context. You see, back in the day, those wigs were the height of sophistication, and corsets were the Spanx of yesteryear. It’s easy to point fingers when you’re not the one trying to impress at the court of Louis, right? Now, let’s talk about values. It’s no secret that those folks had some, let’...

Why I am a progressive liberal

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In the vibrant tapestry of political ideologies, liberals have long been the weavers of progress, threading the needle through the fabric of society with innovative ideas and transformative policies. True liberalism is rooted in the pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice, ideals that are inherently progressive in nature. We believe in: Freedom: It’s the cornerstone of our society, the very essence of a progressive vision. It’s not just about the absence of constraints but the presence of opportunities. ‘Freedom from’ represents our shield against the overreach of authority (in particular, from the state), ensuring that our personal spheres and beliefs remain untouched. ‘Freedom to’ is our sword, cutting through the barriers to a life of fulfillment, where economic security and opportunity are not just ideals but realities for all. Opportunity: This is the promise of a level playing field, where every individual, regardless of their background, can aspire to and achieve greatness. It...