Culture & Religion — March 24, 2010

Why We Drink and Drive

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Why do we act irrationally? Does free will exist? These are the questions that philosopher Alfred Mele sought to answer when he sat down with Big Think.The Florida State University professor delves into what makes us make bad decisions, such as drinking and driving, and why in some cases self-deception can be dangerous. Mele talks about what drove him to ask these questions in the first place: Aristotle, who explained why we often go out and party when we know we should be studying.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A painting on an easel at the entrance of Plato's cave overlooks misty mountains, with a small fire flickering nearby.

Thinking

Plato’s cave and the stubborn persistence of ignorance

Plato’s cave metaphor illustrates the cognitive trap of ignorance, where we may be unaware of the limitations of our understanding.

A vintage-style illustration of a winged figure falling through the sky, set against a textured red background, surrounded by intricate black and white abstract patterns.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Are scientists involved in a Satanic plot to undermine religion?”

How many scientists does it take to ruin a good conspiracy?

The Present

Microplastic overload: Is cutting production the only realistic way to curb pollution?

On November 25, U.N. members will meet in South Korea to cap off a series of meetings aiming to reduce global plastic pollution.

Animated characters observe a family walking in a snowy scene through a viewing screen, inside a control room.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: Is there such a thing as a “negative emotion”?

There’s little more infuriating in the world than being told to “calm down” when you’re in the midst of a simmering grump.

A person reminiscent of Daniel Dennett, known for his critical thinking, stands with raised hands, sporting a beard and glasses. He wears a gray blazer over a blue shirt against a neutral background.

The Learning Curve

3 brilliant critical thinking tools used by Daniel Dennett

The late philosopher suggested adding a couple of “Occam’s heuristics” to your critical thinking toolbox.

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Culture & Religion

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