Jonny Thomson
Jonny Thomson taught philosophy in Oxford for more than a decade before turning to writing full-time. He’s a staff writer at Big Think, where he writes about philosophy, theology, psychology, and occasionally other subjects when he dares step out of his lane. His first book, Mini Philosophy, is an award-winning, international bestseller, and has been translated into 20 languages. His second book, Mini Big Ideas, was published in 2023.
Desire is like a drug. But is an addict always an addict?
Why would someone who has spent their entire career following orders become a great leader overnight?
Philosophy cures no disease and invents nothing new. What’s even the point?
Some news is slow, some news is fast — and there are two simple techniques to help you filter both.
If philosophers really enjoy one thing, it’s a good debate — but not an argument.
Is it ever possible for God to violate the laws of nature?
How do you cope when joining a team shatters your confidence? Albert Camus and Harry Stack Sullivan can help.
Unraveling the subtle mechanics of luck can help us better steer the wheel of fortune.
“I know what you’re thinking” can sound kind or creepy — depending on who’s saying it.
The rise and fall of Josh Harris — the genius who anticipated the digital revolution just a little too soon.
Quibi was so focused on foresight they forgot the basics of hindsight.
The Danish philosopher’s simple paradox — living forwards while looking backwards — can be translated into golden business insights.
Everyone has to learn about sex somehow. Today, billions of people are learning about it from porn.
There’s a fine line between ambition and ruthlessness.
You will need determination, humility, and courage if you are to master anything.
When stuffed and staring down the last bite, you might hear your mother’s voice in your mind.
In the fight between head and heart, psychologists will win.
It’s good to be a wallflower. But sometimes, you need to show yourself off a bit.
Is a repressed memory always so bad?
Take a seat. Take a breath. Take a break.
Is there a force keeping humanity in check?
Are fava beans and chianti really the best pairing for human liver?
Redemption is the journey towards becoming a better person. It’s the story of human life.
God is not a vending machine, but is it wrong to treat him like one?
A reader asks whether we have an ethical responsibility to always debate bad beliefs, especially those that come from our elders.
The road from Kant to modern cognitive psychology has taught us much about our mental filtering systems.
Big Think interviews Angie Westbrock, CEO of Standard AI, to learn the secrets of adapting to the winds of change.
If music is a window onto truth, what does screaming reveal?
Schopenhauer and Freud can help teams navigate the most prickly of collaboration problems.
Big Think recently spoke with behavioral scientist and author Katy Milkman about what really motivates us and steers our behavior.