Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
Rory Stewart delves into the shifting perceptions of heroism from the 20th century to today, contrasting the rise of celebrity figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk, driven by social media and wealth, with the active heroism of Volodymyr Zelensky. The episode questions how we define a true hero, examining the value of 'quiet everyday heroes' versus grand figures. It concludes by considering the evolving nature of heroism in the age of AI, suggesting a focus on human consciousness, self-reflection, and expanding human possibility beyond ego.
Rory Stewart explores ideas of what it means to be a hero from the ancient world to the present day. How have these ideas changed? Why do heroes matter? Who are the heroes we need today? With the help of leading historians, psychologists, philosophers and theologians, he examines how heroism is continually questioned and re-invented in every age, and how these contrasting visions of the hero might speak to us in our own time. What does it mean for our moral life? How should we perceive and pursu...
Rory Stewart explores ideas of what it means to be a hero from the ancient world to the present day. How have these ideas changed? Why do heroes matter? Who are the heroes we need today? With the help of leading historians, psychologists, philosophers and theologians, he examines how heroism is continually questioned and re-invented in every age, and how these contrasting visions of the hero might speak to us in our own time. What does it mean for our moral life? How should we perceive and pursu...
Rory Stewart explores ideas of what it means to be a hero from the ancient world to the present day. How have these ideas changed? Why do heroes matter? Who are the heroes we need today? With the help of leading historians, psychologists, philosophers and theologians, he examines how heroism is continually questioned and re-invented in every age, and how these contrasting visions of the hero might speak to us in our own time. What does it mean for our moral life? How should we perceive and pursu...
Rory Stewart explores ideas of what it means to be a hero from the ancient world to the present day. How have these ideas changed? Why do heroes matter? Who are the heroes we need today? With the help of leading historians, psychologists, philosophers and theologians, he examines how heroism is continually questioned and re-invented in every age, and how these contrasting visions of the hero might speak to us in our own time. What does it mean for our moral life? How should we perceive and pursu...
Rory Stewart argues for embracing ignorance as a fundamental aspect of the human condition, challenging the sole pursuit of knowledge. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, the episode demonstrates how a synthesis of knowledge and ignorance leads to a deeper understanding of life, faith, and our place in the world. It highlights how acknowledging what we don't know can foster creativity, humility, and a more balanced perspective on societal values and individual purpose. This nuanced approach helps us navigate uncertainty and find wisdom.
This episode explores the psychology of ignorance, revealing how an excessive desire for knowledge and certainty can lead to delusion, as seen in conspiracy theories and extremist ideologies. Conversely, it argues for the profound constructive role of embracing ignorance in personal development, fostering healthy relationships, and promoting objectivity in justice. The discussion highlights how overcoming false knowledge often requires a moral dimension and transformational relationships, rather than just more facts.
Rory Stewart explores how ignorance profoundly shapes political decisions, drawing on his experiences in Afghanistan and as a minister. He challenges the idea that more knowledge or heroic leaders can fix complex problems, highlighting institutional biases, expert unreliability, and deep uncertainty. The episode concludes by advocating for radical solutions like feedback mechanisms and citizens' assemblies, suggesting democracy needs to embrace ignorance and compromise rather than seeking impossible certainty.
Rory Stewart explores how embracing ignorance, rather than solely pursuing knowledge, can lead to deeper insights in various aspects of life. Drawing on religious traditions, scientific perspectives, and artistic creation, the episode argues that ignorance is not just a void to be filled but a vital source of inspiration, creativity, and spiritual clarity. It delves into how 'not knowing' fosters originality in art, allows for holistic understanding beyond mere data, and cultivates a sense of wonder, ultimately enriching our experience of the world and ourselves.
This episode explores the limits of human knowledge, demonstrating how certainty can be an illusion, specialization can narrow understanding, and even scientific advancements can lead to devastating consequences. Rory Stewart makes a radical case for appreciating ignorance, revealing how it can be a positive force that shapes our lives, driving scientific breakthroughs and fostering a more humble and empathetic perspective on our place in the universe.
Rory Stewart explores humanity's deep-seated reverence for knowledge, from ancient Greek discoveries to the Enlightenment's scientific triumphs, while questioning its limitations. He makes a radical case for embracing ignorance, highlighting how it fosters creativity, scientific discovery, and humility, often providing deeper insights than absolute knowledge. The episode features insights from global thinkers on the multifaceted nature of reality and the value of 'not knowing.'
Rory Stewart delves into the concept of ignorance, differentiating between known and unknown unknowns. He argues against the conventional negative view of ignorance, proposing that it is not merely the absence of knowledge but an essential element for creativity, adventure, and wisdom. Drawing on insights from historical figures, Stewart suggests embracing ignorance can lead to greater humility and openness to diverse perspectives.
Rory Stewart concludes his series on argument, examining how political discourse has shifted from consensus to extreme polarization. He discusses the challenge of empathetic understanding between opposing views, highlighting that not all dilemmas have factual answers and often involve intractable moral decisions. The episode proposes institutional reforms for social media and Parliament, advocates for local democracy and citizens' assemblies, and emphasizes the crucial role of empathy and apt rhetoric in fostering productive debate and clarifying moral truths.
This episode delves into the decline of political argument, examining its historical significance from classical rhetoric to its diminished role in modern parliaments. Rory Stewart investigates how media shifts, from television soundbites to divisive social media algorithms, have transformed public discourse. Featuring academic insights and practitioner experiences on platforms like Twitter, the discussion highlights the challenges to genuine persuasion and the urgent need to rebuild an ecosystem for constructive dialogue in democracy.
Rory Stewart delves into the human phenomenon of arguing, tracing its origins from early conflict resolution to its role as the foundation of philosophy, science, law, and democracy. He examines how classical rhetoric shaped civilization and highlights both the truth-seeking potential and the dangers of argument, especially in the era of social media. The episode concludes by breaking down Aristotle's three modes of persuasion (Ethos, Pathos, Logos) and emphasizing the moral context required for genuine, constructive dialogue.
Jul 08, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 1
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
