Of the many near-universal life experiences shared across the world, parenthood is near the top of the list. For as long as humans have roamed the earth, their parents have brought them to the very pale blue dot we all inhabit. But what of the numerous folks who choose not to have children? This week, we speak with Susannah O'Neil about her experiences being judged or confronted by others (including strangers) about her decision. Why do some feel comfortable and permitted to make such remarks? How does a biological interest in procreation give rise to social commentary on others' decisions?
Episode 194: Knowledge, Trivia and Shame
Knowledge and our ability to capture it has lifted our species to great heights. It has been our foothold in scientific discovery, feats of eloquence, community and profound understanding. But we don't all prize the same knowledge or in the same ways. This week, Ian Fox joins us to discuss the ways in which we shame those who do not know what we know and how we approach knowledge in a societal context. How does shame factor into the approach many have to learning? How do cultures distinguish between knowledge and trivia?
Further Reading:
Episode 193: Creepy vs. Romantic
Intense emotion has been revered, feared and everything in between since our species began introspecting. When it comes to the intensity we show others, especially in the realm of romance, complications emerge. How do we determine the proper amount of emotion to show? Where does flattery slip into fixation? This week, we explore some of the distinctions between creepy and romantic gestures and behaviors.
Episode 192: Ticket Philanthropy and Representation
Recent films like Black Panther, Wonder Woman and Love, Simon have amplified a desire among moviegoers to promote better representation of our society. In the past year they have been record-breaking films, sparking conversations about topics like gender, race and sexual orientation. Celebrities like Octavia Spencer and Matt Bomer have even purchased full theaters to share these movies with children and those who can't afford tickets. What does the film industry say about issues of representation in contemporary society? How to the identities of these celebrities speak to the roles or expectations of distinct demographics and communities?
Further Reading:
CinemaBlend, "Octavia Spencer Is Buying Out A Whole Theater So Kids Can Screen Black Panther"
Bustle, "Matt Bomer Bought Out A 'Love Simon' Screening So Kids Can See That #LoveIsLoveIsLove"
Metro, "Kendrick Lamar and TDE buy out three theaters so kids can see 'Black Panther' for free"
Education Week, "Why People Are Raising Money to Show Students 'A Wrinkle in Time'"
Episode 191: To Tell the Young of Ends
In the process of growing up, we learn a great deal about the world and the people around us. Common in all of our experiences are the truths of mortality - our abilities, our frailties and the reality of demise. But we don’t all encounter or sit with this truth at the same moment in life. This week, Dan Farina joins us to discuss the prospect of sharing this fact with a young person. How does this knowledge affect people and their relative innocence? How do we view our time in life differently upon learning about death?
