Lightning

“When you wish to instruct, be brief; that men’s minds may take in quickly what you say, learn its lesson, and retain it faithfully. Every word that is unnecessary only pours over the side of a brimming mind.” – Horace, Ars Poetica   This week, join Cyrus Palizban and Zohar Atkins as they discuss Horace's quote on brevity in instruction. Of course this begins a discussion on teaching methodologies, with Zohar’s insights as a rabbi coming into play, offering both philosophical and religious perspectives. From there, Zohar is asked to reflect on his unique experiences with philosophy, the impact of various past thinkers, and the interaction between philosophy, religion, and education. Our discussion concludes with thoughts on the balance between pursuing truth and embracing wisdom in both philosophical inquiry and religious belief. Where do you stand?   00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast with Professor Zohar Atkins 00:25 Exploring Brevity in Teaching and Learning 01:11 The Complexity of Education and Its Impact on Secularism 02:28 Adjusting Teaching Methods to Student Needs 03:58 The Art of Lecturing and Its Evolution 04:33 Debating the Essence of Brevity in Communication 07:39 Philosophy vs. Instruction: A Deep Dive 11:56 Socratic Method: Exploration or Direction? 15:43 Philosophy, Politics, and the Quest for Wisdom 27:44 The Intersection of Philosophy and Judaism 40:10 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

"The keenest sorrow is to recognize ourselves as the sole cause of all our adversities."  – Sophocles, Oedipus Rex   Change of format! This week, host Cyrus Palizban invites a single guest, Nico Sarian, to dive into the quote of the week and meander from there! Starting with the quote from Sophocles' “Oedipus Rex”, we take a deep dive into the nature of Greek tragedy, the significance of individual actions and fate, and the impact of historical and cultural context on literary interpretation. The discussion ranges from the origins of the dithyramb of the ancient cult of Dionysus to the many names of Apollo in the further-flung Hellenic reaches to the intricate subtexts of theology, the creative reconstruction of historical narratives, and the philosophical underpinning of tragedy as a genre. Additionally, Nico shares some of his personal theses on the nature of good and evil, and how their distinction is often hidden from us. Can we really be responsible for that which we cannot know?   00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: A Unique Exploration 00:47 Diving Deep into Greek Tragedy with Nico Sarian 02:30 The Lost Art of Tragedy and the Mystery of Missing Plays 03:54 Reimagining Ancient Greece: Color, Art, and History Misconceptions 24:10 Exploring the Depths of Apollo's Cults and Nietzsche's Critique 31:36 The Modern Predicament: Religion, Philosophy, and Individual Responsibility 35:45 Exploring Self-Improvement and Reality 25:08 The Journey Through Nigredo and Personal Reflections 38:30 Delving into the Essence of Evil and Darkness 39:32 The Philosophical Debate on Good, Evil, and Accountability 46:28 A Deep Dive into Darkness, Perception, and Moral Realizations 52:01 Connecting Martial Arts, Legal Philosophy, and Fate 01:02:42 Wrapping Up: From Apollo to Lupercalia and Beyond   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“Real vengeance has not yet concretely demonstrated its power upon our lives and it never will, in a sense, because if it did, there would be no more lives to be affected by anything.” — René Girard, Dionysus versus the Crucified   This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Rainer Franz, and Harry Jacobs as we delve into a discussion on Rene Girard's theories, particularly focusing on mimetic desire and its role in human conflict and vengeance. According to Girard, envy and rivalry, rooted in the imitation of desires, drive societal and interpersonal conflicts which can lead to cycles of violence and scapegoating. An engaging real-life narrative shared by guest Harry Jacobs about an altercation and its aftermath serves as a practical exploration of the themes of vengeance, justice, and forgiveness, prompting a deeper analysis of human nature, the potential for change, and the moral implications of intervention in conflicts. This is an episode for anyone who has struggled with revenge.   00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: Exploring Weekly Meditations 00:39 Diving Deep into Rene Girard's Theory of Mimetic Desire 04:18 Understanding Dionysus vs. The Crucified: A Comparative Analysis 11:05 Real-World Implications of Girard's Theories: A Personal Story 15:59 The Ripple Effects of Vengeance and the Power of Restraint 21:45 Exploring the Complexity of Right and Wrong 22:29 The Philosophical Debate: Justice vs. Mercy 23:54 Biblical Insights and Moral Dilemmas 24:37 The Girardian Perspective on Vengeance and Justice 25:45 Human Nature, Violence, and the Potential for Change 29:36 The Role of Emotion in Conflict and Resolution 31:54 Harry's Personal Reflection and Growth 40:15 Concluding Thoughts: The Power of Words Over Violence   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“With the exception of the instinct of self-preservation, the propensity for emulation is probably the strongest and most alert and persistent of the economic motives proper.”  — Thorstein Veblen, Theory of the Leisure Class   This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Nicolas Sarian, Zohar Atkins, and Harry Jacobs as we explore Thorstein Veblen's assertion. We discuss various dimensions of emulation, from its philosophical implications to its real-world applications like influencing market trends and investment decisions. The conversation spans topics including the impact of social media influencers, the evolution of wealth and luxury from a historical perspective, and the balance between emulating others and maintaining individuality. From Bruce Springsteen's music to Warren Buffett's investment strategies, the podcast delves into how emulation drives not only economic behaviors but also personal and cultural narratives.   00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast 00:32 Diving Into Thorstein Veblen's Insights 01:32 Exploring Emulation in Society 05:15 The Phenomenon of Veblen Goods 13:00 Emulation vs. Self-Preservation 14:29 The Influence of Role Models and Emulation in Modern Society 17:55 Economic Wisdom from Warren Buffett 21:48 The Apple vs. Amazon Investment Philosophy 24:03 Navigating the Digital Music Landscape 24:36 The Evolution of Music Consumption: From Napster to Spotify 25:36 Bruce Springsteen: The Soundtrack of Life 25:47 A Deep Dive into 'Born in the USA' and Its Misinterpretations 27:00 Personal Encounters with Bruce Springsteen 30:07 Emulating Musical Giants: The Quest for Originality 32:55 Exploring Wealth, Liquidity, and the Value of Property 39:15 The Cultural Impact of Home Ownership and Economic Collapse 44:33 Wrapping Up: From Veblen to Springsteen and Beyond   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/  

“I certainly have, thanks to time, an interlocking and taking up of previous experiences in later experiences, but I never have an absolute possession of myself by myself, since the hollow of the future is always filled by a new present.” – Maurice Merleau-Ponty   This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Nicolas Sarian, Harry Jacobs, and new team member Rainer Franz as we delve into profound discussions on Maurice Merleau-Ponty's philosophy of phenomenology, and its implications on identity, the body, the nature of AI, and the intertwining of reality, language, and understanding. Also drawing from other phenomenologists, such as Heidegger and Husserl, we challenge the definition of intelligence and consciousness in AI, and the distinction between human and machine understanding. This episode is a short but intense conversation between colleagues on the nature of perception and being.   00:00 Welcome to the Lightning Podcast: A Dive into Phenomenology 00:32 Exploring Maurice Merleau Ponty's Philosophical Insights 01:54 Deep Dive into Phenomenology: Body, Perception, and Identity 10:35 Phenomenology vs. AI: Understanding Consciousness and Embodiment 20:19 AI and the Human Experience: A Philosophical Debate 30:58 Concluding Thoughts on AI, Perception, and Existence   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/  

“Poetry is the work of a gifted person, or of a manic: of these types, the former have versatile imaginations, the latter get carried away.” — By Aristotle From Poetics   This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Nicolas Sarian, Harry Jacobs, and Jake Kozloski as we delve into a multifaceted discussion on poetry, artistry, and philosophy, using Aristotle's quote as a starting point. We explore the contrast between Aristotle and Plato’s views on inspiration, knowledge, and the essence of being a philosopher versus a sophos or wise person. What is the nature of inspiration? Or the distinction between having technique and channeling something greater? This episode attempts to illuminate the intertwined nature of creativity, intellectual pursuit, and human connection.   00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast! 00:26 Introducing Special Guest and AI Dating App Discussion 00:57 Diving into Aristotle's Poetics: Gifted vs. Manic 02:23 Exploring the Philosophy of Art and Poetry 03:01 Athletes, Artists, and the Art of Execution 07:49 The Role of Mania in Creativity and Skill 10:21 Understanding the Artist's Journey and Love 11:47 Debating Plato vs. Aristotle on Art and Knowledge 19:25 The Essence of Techne and the Art of Channeling 20:59 Technology, Engineering, and the Discovery Process 23:03 Exploring the Pragmatic Roots of Human Intelligence 24:01 Heidegger's Theory: Philosophy Born from Crisis 25:30 Philosophy and Crisis: The Historical Context 26:26 Philosophers: Megalomaniacs or Misunderstood Geniuses? 27:49 The Unpredictable Genius of Creativity 28:44 The Wounded Healer: Philosophers and Their Quest for Truth 29:43 Appreciating Zohar: Insights and Inspirations 32:42 Philosophy as Leadership: The Aristotle Approach 35:21 The Essence of Teaching Philosophy 42:15 Philosophy, Art, and the Quest for Understanding 46:20 Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations   Special thanks to Jake Kozlowski, CEO of Keeper for joining us on the podcast. Want to find love at first match? Try Keeper: http://keeper.ai/  https://twitter.com/KeeperMatch  https://www.instagram.com/keepermatchmaking/reels/  Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“To fall in love is to create a religion that has a fallible god.” – Jorge Luis Borges   This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Nicolas Sarian, Harry Jacobs, and Jake Kozloski (founder and CEO of Keeper, an AI-driven dating app) as we engage in a rich discussion about the complexities of love, marriage, and the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in matchmaking. The conversation orbits around Borges’ provocative quote on love, sparking debates on the nature of love, the historical transformation of marriage, and how personal and societal conceptions of these concepts have shifted over time. Jake introduces Keeper, an innovative dating app designed to use AI to match individuals with their soulmates by learning enormous amounts of personal preferences and traits. We explore the philosophical, psychological, and practical aspects of seeking love in the modern era, touching upon the benefits and potential pitfalls of relying on technology to navigate the deeply human quest for connection. We hope you’ll swipe right on this episode.   00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast: Exploring Love and Philosophy 00:35 Diving Deep into the Meaning of Love with Jake Kozlowski 02:54 The Paradox of a Fallible God in Love 07:16 Exploring the Complexities of Love, Religion, and AI 08:56 Personal Reflections and Philosophical Insights on Love 18:57 The Role of AI in Finding Love: A Future Vision 25:22 Exploring the Science of Matchmaking 26:09 The Art of Falling in Love vs. Falling Asleep 27:43 Commitment Coaching: Beyond Finding a Match 28:38 The Journey of Love: From Short-Term Attraction to Long-Term Connection 30:08 The Role of Technology in Modern Matchmaking 31:24 Navigating the Complexities of Authenticity and Attraction 35:39 Addressing Deception in Digital Dating 39:08 A Philosophical Dive into Love, Marriage, and Technology 50:00 Concluding Thoughts on Love, Relationships, and Self-Discovery   Special thanks to Jake Kozloski, CEO of Keeper for joining us on the podcast. Want to find love at first match? Try Keeper: http://keeper.ai/  https://twitter.com/KeeperMatch  https://www.instagram.com/keepermatchmaking/reels/  Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“A lot of times, people don’t know what they want until you show it to them.” –Steve Jobs   This week on The Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban, Harry Jacobs, Zohar Atkins, Nicolas Sarian, and Francis Pedraza as we delve into the bold quote by Steve Jobs. We discuss innovation, entrepreneurship, and the challenge of creating something new that the market has yet to demand, done by listening deeply to potential needs, the nature of human wants. How have great innovators like Steve Jobs historically been able to tap into unknown demand and bring revolutionary products to life? We share our personal experiences and philosophies on life, learning, and the pursuit of understanding human nature and desires. From the philosophical underpinnings of creation, the concept of intuition, and the balance between seeking advice and forging one's unique path, this episode attempts to explore the notion of greatness, the impact of technology, and the timeless relevance of seeking and confronting life's profound questions.   00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast! 00:29 Diving into Steve Jobs' Philosophy 01:47 Exploring the Unseen: Innovation and Customer Needs 08:07 The Power of Vision and Imagination 16:39 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Courage and Rejection 25:39 Philosophical Insights on Creation and Discovery 31:32 The Essence of Greatness and the Path to Innovation 33:50 Exploring the Origins of Apple's Name 35:00 The Power and Perils of Spiritual Gurus 38:05 The Quest for Excellence and the Price of Greatness 39:04 Redefining Success Through Personal Journeys 53:36 The Philosophical Journey: From Tradition to Existentialism 59:09 Embracing the Unknown: The Essence of Human Innovation 01:02:54 Concluding Reflections: The Unending Search for Meaning Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“The value of a commodity, or the quantity of any other commodity for which it will exchange, depends on the relative quantity of labour which is necessary for its production, and not on the greater or less compensation which is paid for that labour.”  - David Ricardo   This week on The Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban, Nico Sarian, Zohar Atkins, and Harry Jacobs as we delve into this quote on economics by David Ricardo. From Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian to Uber surge pricing and keto ice cream, the discussion expands to explore the modern applications of Ricardo's labor theory of value. The conversation touches on various topics including the perception of value, the significance of creating products that meet new or specific needs, and how technological innovations and societal attitudes reshape our understanding of worth and commoditization. Certainly, we hope you find this episode worth your time.   00:00 Welcome to The Lightning Podcast: Introducing Our Guests 00:55 Diving Into David Ricardo's Economic Theories 01:45 Exploring the Concept of Labor Value and Commoditization 09:56 The Intricacies of Monopoly, Free Trade, and Market Dynamics 11:10 The Influence of Branding and the Power of Monopolies 24:00 Redefining Value: From Commodities to Personal Branding 30:41 The Kardashian Effect: Fame, Influence, and Opportunity 33:43 The Kardashian Empire and Celebrity Influence 34:04 Exploring the Phenomenon of Outliers 35:21 Generational Talents and Record Breakers 36:38 The Power of Celebrity in Sports and Politics 39:08 Innovation, Monopolies, and Market Dynamics 42:37 The Essence of Competition and Innovation 50:11 The Cultural Impact of Taylor Swift and NFL Dynamics 52:41 Exploring Modernity, Tradition, and Community Dynamics 01:00:17 The Value of Differentiation and Authenticity   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“Many manage to sell what they could never give away.” – Stendhal   In this episode of the Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, and Nicolas Sarian as we discuss Stendhal’s quote. We explore various perspectives on the themes of value, gifting, and exchange. From theology to memes to Soviets to markets, this conversation is a multi-faceted look into the reasons we give and sell and, sometimes, do both.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:21 Exploring the Quote of the Week 00:39 Unpacking the Meaning of the Quote 00:48 The Influence of Literature on the Quote 01:23 The Concept of Commodification 01:45 The Controversial Nature of the Book 02:15 The Value of Things We Would Never Sacrifice 03:19 The Concept of Profanation 03:53 The Right to Sell Our Organs 05:25 The Concept of Selling Out 05:55 The Power of Pricing 06:12 The Influence of Luxury Marketing 10:11 The Influence of Western Products on the Soviet Union 11:04 The Role of Art in Cultural Change 11:48 The Power of Memes in Shaping Public Opinion 12:18 The Role of Religion in Defining Value 24:35 The Concept of Sacrifice in Religion 38:59 The Role of Cognitive Dissonance and Hypocrisy 40:01 The Importance of Capturing Value 41:04 Conclusion   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest.” - Adam Smith This week join Cyrus Palizban, Nico Sarian, and Zohar Atkins as we delve into the fundamental principles of the economic systems we live in through the lens of Adam Smith's quote from 'Wealth of Nations'. We discuss the power of individual self-interest in driving societal organization and productivity, and navigate through perspectives offered by Charles Fourier and Nassim Taleb. A major discussion point brought up is Franz Kafka's 'A Hunger Artist', using it to highlight possible inefficiencies in the career choices made by artists. The discussion evolves to touching upon Taleb's concepts of 'Mediocristan' and 'Extremistan', assessing risk-taking and job stability. By the end, the conversation ponders on the contrast between perceived and actual self-interest.   00:00 Introduction to The Lightning Podcast 00:22 Discussing Adam Smith's Quote from Wealth of Nations 01:02 Exploring the Concept of Self-Interest 01:49 Debating Benevolence vs Self-Interest 03:01 Understanding the Role of Market in Coordinating Values 07:44 Interpreting Adam Smith's Quote in Different Contexts 10:03 Relating Adam Smith's Quote to Kafka's The Hunger Artist 20:16 Reflecting on the Role of Artists in Society 26:47 The Hunger Artist: A Discussion on Value and Society 27:37 The Social Circles of Communism, Socialism, and Libertarianism 28:29 The Evolution of Exchange and the Impact of Atomization 29:05 The Calculus of Work: Enjoyment vs. Compensation 29:40 The Job Market: A Discussion on Enjoyment, Demand, and Compensation 30:22 The Quadrant of Enjoyment and Demand: A Two by Two Analysis 34:01 The Taleb Perspective: Risk, Stability, and the Uber Driver Parable 38:05 The Efficiency of the Market: A Debate on Self Interest and Perception 44:35 The Artist's Journey: From Pursuit to Realization 52:51 The Self in Self Interest: A Deep Dive into Identity and Incentives 55:12 Closing Thoughts: The Optimization Function and the Universality of Rational Calculus   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“All things are full of gods.” - Thales of Miletus This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Nicolas Sarian, Zohar Atkins, and Genevieve Kim as we engage in a philosophical discussion centered on the above quote by Thales. We discuss varying interpretations of the statement, touching upon topics of Greek mythology, psychology, polytheism, Christian theology, mysticism, power dynamics, and the concept of the divine in mundane objects. We explore the dynamics of power, visibility, singularity, mystique, fear and the notion of God as a 'hidden concept'. This episode is full of gods.   00:00 Introduction to the Lightning Podcast 00:23 Discussing Thales of Miletus' Quote 00:56 Exploring the Concept of Gods in Ancient Greece 01:08 The Influence of Carl Jung and Julian Jaynes 01:56 Understanding Emotions and Self in Ancient Greece 02:59 The Concept of Possession and the Bicameral Mind 03:20 The Origin of Consciousness and the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind 04:30 The Role of Gods in Motivating Mortals 05:37 The Story of Abraham and the Evolution of Monotheism 06:41 The Fragility of Gods and the Search for the Unbreakable 07:15 The Discovery of Self and the Concept of Psychological Polytheism 08:51 The Nietzschean Perspective on Self-Recognition 11:12 The Concept of Source and the Oneness of All Things 16:52 The Power Struggles and Hierarchies in Ancient Mythology 21:31 The Uniqueness of Gods and the Singularity of All Things 37:05 The Power of the Unseen and the Influence of the Invisible 45:46 Closing Thoughts and Reflections   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“The rule proves nothing; the exception proves everything.” - Carl Schmitt. This week on The Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins and Nicolas Sarian as we take a deep dive into the philosophy of Carl Schmitt, a controversial 20th-century German legal philosopher, known for his theories on politics, law, and their relationship with theology. Zohar and Nico debate Schmitt's concept of the 'sovereign', the idea of decisionism, and the notion of miracles or exceptions to guide one's life. This episode is a discussion of brilliant but controversial thinkers, their impacts, and the lessons that can be taken from them.   00:01 Introduction to the Podcast 00:22 Exploring Carl Schmitt's Philosophy 03:56 Understanding Political Theology 07:39 The Role of Theology in Politics 07:53 The Concept of Sovereignty 08:42 The Exception and the Rule 09:10 Theological Interpretation of Miracles 09:49 Critique and Alternatives to Schmitt's View 12:54 Political Theology in Contemporary Context 18:23 Personal Implications of Schmitt's Philosophy 23:18 The Role of Decisionism in Politics 28:48 The Challenge of Governance and Power 39:35 Schmitt as a Continuation of Hobbes 40:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/  

“Valor increases with the quality of the arms, defensive as well as offensive.” - Giovanni Botero.  This week on The Lightning Podcast, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, and Genevieve Kim as we discuss the concept of valor. What is valor? We try to answer: literally, metaphorically, and historically - using multiple analogies from matters of dress and fashion to the wielding of weapons, from the rituals of actors to biblical instances to novels. How does valor tie into one's character, confidence, formality, etc.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:19 Exploring the Quote of the Day 00:46 Historical Context of Arms and Valor 02:34 Interpreting Valor in Modern Times 02:47 The Role of Arms in Valor 04:08 The Impact of Dress and Appearance on Valor 05:35 The Role of Confidence in Valor 07:17 Exploring Valor in Different Traditions 09:00 Counterarguments and Critiques 11:12 Exploring Valor in Different Contexts 13:06 The Role of Valor in Battle and War 14:47 The Impact of Dress and Appearance on Valor Revisited 17:42 Exploring Valor in Literature and Pop Culture 22:45 The Role of Valor in Leadership and Governance 26:01 The Impact of Modern Society on Valor 30:32 Final Thoughts and Reflections   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“Right action is better than knowledge; but in order to do what is right, we must know what is right.” This week, Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, and Nicolas Sarian use King Charlemagne’s quote as a starting point into a discussion about thought vs action. What is the relationship between the two? Drawing from diverse references - Jewish tradition, Buddhist thought, psychoanalysis, sociology, and investment strategies - the conversation takes a turn into an engrossing discussion about the various parts of the self as understood by Freud, Nietzsche, and Jung. Enjoy!   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:22 Exploring the Quote of the Week 00:43 Debate on Knowledge vs Action 02:13 Investing: Action vs Knowledge 04:06 The Green Lumber Approach 05:37 Relating Knowledge and Action to Investing 06:12 Jewish Tradition and the Green Lumber Point 07:00 Modern Society's Preference for Action 07:53 Timing and Urgency in Decision Making 11:10 The Role of Regret in Action vs Knowledge 19:01 Psychopath vs Sociopath: A New Perspective 23:08 Understanding the Self: Freud's Perspective 23:54 Historical Roots of Self-Identity: Plato's Influence 26:13 The Self in Relationships: Balancing Rationality and Madness 26:58 Ego in Modern Society: A Misunderstood Concept 28:46 The Problem of Individuation: A Nietzschean Perspective 30:57 The Quantum Self: Indivisible Yet Multiple 31:45 The Journey of Individuation: A Path to Self-Understanding 33:38 The Strength Addiction: A Barrier to Self-Exploration 43:43 The Reality of Evil: A Controversial Discussion 47:55 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Self-Understanding   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“He who does not know how to use leisure has more of work than when there is work in work.” This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Genevieve Kim, Nicolás Sarian, and Anne Dudek as we explore the philosophy of leisure and work, prompted by the quote from Ennius. What constitutes leisure? Is it bound by time or the actions we take? From ancient Greek and Roman concepts of leisure, to the inherent leisureliness or divinity imbibed in God as depicted in the Genesis, to how the Industrial Revolution altered the definition of work, the conversation takes turns left and right in a way that is anything but leisurely!   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Panel 00:24 Interpreting Ennius' Quote on Leisure 01:18 Leisure vs Time Off: A Greek Perspective 02:14 The Role of Leisure in Philosophy and Work 03:15 Defining Work and Leisure 04:05 The Impact of Modernity and Capitalism on Leisure 08:47 The Commodification of Leisure 10:18 The Role of Motivation in Leisure 15:32 The Aesthetic Experience and Leisure 17:06 Duties of the Heart vs Duties of the Limbs 20:36 The Role of Consumption in Leisure 22:18 The Paradox of Proactivity in Leisure 24:06 Exploring the Intersection of Leisure and Work 24:41 The Evolution of Language and its Impact on Perception 25:59 The Industrial Revolution and its Influence on Work 27:33 Theological Perspectives on Work and Leisure 29:11 The Concept of Time Ownership and Slavery 29:55 The Significance of the Weekend and Leisure Time 34:28 The Role of Risk and Uncertainty in Leisure 38:02 The Paradox of Sacrifice and Leisure 42:30 The Role of Risk in Leisure: A Case for Gambling 43:20 Wrapping Up: The Ongoing Debate on Leisure Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

“A man who likes nobody is much more unhappy, than a man whom nobody likes.” This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Anne Dudek, and Zohar Atkins as we grapple with this statement from François de la Rochefoucauld’s “Maxims”. From political intrigue of European courts to the techniques actors employ to get into character, to the laws and rulesets we all set up for ourselves when navigating society: this episode is a deepdive into the concept of “happiness” and love. 00:01 Introduction to the Podcast 00:24 Unpacking François de la Rochefoucauld's Quote 00:56 Exploring the Historical Context 01:47 Interpreting the Quote through Political Intrigue 03:01 Contrasting Perspectives: Machiavellian Philosophy 04:36 Engagement and Community in Philosophy 05:08 The Role of Envy and Defensiveness 06:36 Exploring the Concept of 'Like' 07:05 The Role of Discernment and Judgment 07:30 The Complexity of 'Like' and 'Happiness' 08:00 The Role of Analogy in Understanding 09:20 The Paradox of Liking and Being Liked 22:27 The Role of Aspiration and Striving 25:15 Art, Happiness, and Fulfillment 26:00 Final Thoughts on Happiness and Superficiality 28:06 The Power of Liking and Being Liked 29:33 The Art of Empathy and Connection 30:35 Acting: A Tool for Emotional Control 31:24 The Struggles of Playing Unlikable Characters 32:56 The Complexity of Villains in Film 35:08 The Thin Line Between Acting and Reality 37:51 The Role of Empathy in Society 49:25 The Tragedy of Being Loved but Not Loving 54:40 Closing Thoughts   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng== Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lightning.inspiration   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, and Nicolas Sarian as we discuss what it means to have seriousness towards play, prompted by a quote by Friedrich Nietzsche from "Beyond Good and Evil". Children immerse themselves into their play, often losing themselves in their imaginations. How do we lose this ability? How is regaining it a sign of maturity? Are we still playing a game, a game called life? As you’d imagine, the conversation turned towards Buddhism but also: Star Wars, Moses, and questions about the morality of past philosophers themselves. A deep dive of an episode, to say the least!   00:01 Introduction and Welcome 00:29 Exploring Nietzsche's Quote on Play and Maturity 01:07 Personal Reflections on Seriousness in Play 02:31 Rediscovering Seriousness in Play: A Classroom Experience 04:43 The Concept of Homo Ludens and the Seriousness of Play 10:30 The Dichotomy of Enlightenment and Action in Buddhism 11:21 The Bodhisattva and the Arhat: Different Paths to Enlightenment 19:55 Star Wars Analogy: Enlightenment and Compassion 27:09 The Meta Podcast Discussion 27:48 Star Wars and Human Nature 28:31 Moses: The Reluctant Prophet 30:44 The Power Dynamics in Ancient Societies 31:45 The Dark Side in Star Wars 32:16 Christianity and Nietzsche's Critique 33:50 Nietzsche's Warrior Ethic 34:46 The Metamorphoses in Zarathustra 37:13 The Role of the Warrior in Nietzsche's Philosophy 46:09 The Death of the Author 47:14 The Personal Lives of Philosophers 56:25 The Seriousness of Play   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng== Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lightning.inspiration   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Anne Dudek, Zohar Atkins, Stewart Alsop III, and Nicolas Sarian as we discuss the mystical power of the Moon, prompted by a quote from the ancient Indian author, Kalidasa. We explore the dichotomy between the moon and the sun as considered by different cultures and religions. The conversation leads us to discuss the concept of darkness and light, and the shadows that come from their interplay. From shadows we bounce to the concept of dems and then to the nature of the separation between man and the rest of the animal kingdom: namely, speech and names themselves. Buckle up, this is a wild dive into the night!   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:24 Joining the Discussion Group 00:50 Quote of the Day 01:13 Understanding the Quote's Origin 02:54 Interpreting the Quote 05:28 The Moon and the Sun in Jewish Tradition 10:49 The Moon and the Sun in Art and Personal Experience 22:01 The Moon and the Sun in Ancient Traditions 25:58 The Shadow of the Shadow 28:08 Interpreting Omens and Shadows 28:30 The Dilemma of Seeking Omens 28:44 The Paradox of Self-fulfilling Prophecies 29:39 The Duality of Man and Demon 30:30 The Liminality of Beings 31:23 The Human Condition: Spirit or Animal? 31:47 The Definition of Liminal 32:24 The Role of Names in Identity Formation 38:35 The Mystery of Animal Consciousness 43:17 The Power of Language and Literacy 48:59 The Evolution of Communication: From Hieroglyphics to Memes 50:23 The Impact of Writing on Memory 52:09 Wrapping Up the Discussion   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng== Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lightning.inspiration   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/

This week, join Cyrus Palizban, Zohar Atkins, Stewart Alsop, Nicolas Sarian, and Anne Dudek as we discuss alchemy: its philosophical, psychological, and transformative concepts. Nicolas Sarian attempts to guide us through its stages: from dissolution to calcination to transformation, referencing the source of the episode’s chosen quote, Fulcanelli's ‘The Mystery of the Cathedrals’. We compare alchemical processes to Vedic principles, exploring the intersections of ancient wisdom and contemporary thought. Ultimately, we ask the question: is alchemy a mystical quest for transformation or a just precursor to modern science?   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:51 The Quote of the Week and Its Context 01:20 Understanding Alchemy: The First Agent 02:45 The Alchemical Process: Dissolution and Calcination 04:27 The Sufferings of Love: A Talmudic Perspective 07:40 The Alchemical Process: Humidifying and Dehumidifying 14:36 The Alchemical Process: The Peacock's Tail 15:38 The Mystery of Technology: From Tongs to AI 20:40 The Alchemist's Sacrifice: Understanding the Flame 21:31 The Dangers of Seeking Knowledge: Pandora's Box 21:59 The Alchemical Process: Dissolution and Beyond 22:32 The Alchemist's Humor: Lightening the Mood 23:14 The Second Stage of Alchemy: A Philosophical Conundrum 25:54 Alchemy in the Vedic Context: A Comparative Analysis 27:13 The Alchemical Process: A Synchronic Perspective 27:46 Alchemy: The Quest for Gold or Something More? 29:22 The Evolution of Alchemy: From Aristotle to Francis Bacon 32:22 Alchemy: A Natural Process or a Human Intervention? 36:18 The Alchemical Process: A Personal Transformation 39:17 The Modern Alchemist: Brian Johnson's Experiments   Want to continue the discussion? Join us for more learning and discussion in our Meditations and Chronicles WhatsApp groups!   Meditations: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JIFXc06ABCPEsyfUBtvm1U Chronicles: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FD6M9a35KCE2XrnJrqaGLU   Follow us on other platforms for more content!   Twitter: https://x.com/lightinspires   Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightning.inspiration?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng== Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lightning.inspiration   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightning-meditations/