Summary

Julian Baggini is a writer, best-selling author, and philosopher. This is a discussion that explores the dimensions of reason, rationality, critical thinking. Why it’s important and how we can establish more healthy debate that may just be critical of our continual progress.

We then discuss the topic of “truth.” What it is, why it’s relevant and how we can go about establishing the truth. Two very important themes form this wonderful conversation.

Julian is passionate about small thoughts about big things; big thoughts about small things; expansive ideas in few words;  seeds of thought, scattered to either take root or not. Welcome the website of the writer Julian Baggini.

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Discussion Topics 

• The edge of reason. What is rationality and reason? How does this relate to critical thinking? Why is it healthy? And how to develop and encourage healthy conversation/reasoning.
• Truth. What is it? How do we define it – or indeed should we? How can we establish truth in our own lives? Why is this relevant and to who?

Quick round questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?

Getting outdoors. Activity. Square meals. Coffee.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

No advice. I wouldn’t dare to.

What is the meaning of success?

Leave the world a better place then you went into it but more realistic is being able to do whatever it is that you love doing. It isn’t important if you earn money, get recognized of received acclaim for that.

What is your number one productivity advice?

Stop when you are beginning to wane. Refresh and come back later (or not at all).

What advice would you give someone that needing/wanting to make a change?

Firstly ask, is the change a good one and why? Then ask, is it going to be sustainable?

Favourite Food

Yoghurt

Favourite Leisure Activity

Tennis

Favourite Book

The Book of Tea by Kakuzo Okakura

The View From Nowhere by Thomas Nagel

A Short History of Truth: Consolations for a Post-Truth World by Julian Baggini

The Edge of Reason: A Rational Skeptic in an Irrational World by Julian Baggini

Favourite Quote

“It is the mark of an educated man to look for precision in each class of thing in so far as its nature admits.” Aristotle

Do we all have a why?

Not preexisting or given to us but we need to work out our own why otherwise why get up in the morning.

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

Perhaps there is too much emphasis on “passion.” It puts pressure on people. I think it’s best to find what motivates you, enriches you and nourishes you.

How to connect with Julian Baggini

Visit is website here – Microphilosophy

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

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