Purpose

The theme of this site is one of trying to understand how things work, mainly us humans, by use of the best tool that we have, which is science. To be forthcoming with my beliefs and biases, which shape the content of my writings, I believe that the existence of deities and an afterlife are unlikely and that science and reason must be the predominant means for insight and to secure our species’ future.

Science must, however, serve the welfare of humanity. In order to do this, we must care first, which means we must identify with what we have in common with our fellow humans. This is the opposite of what our political system promotes, which is tribalism. Tribalism, Us vs. Them, is about uniting over what we hate in the other group. If we want to compete over our group’s values and interests, then we should remain tribalistic. But if we want to do what works for everyone, we must understand how human nature works. Empathy, not sympathy, is needed here.

This site is not about politics, but it does ask why we do politics. Politics is about morality—what is right and what is wrong for us—with the goal to configure society a certain kind of way. The visions of conservatives and liberals, however, stand in stark contrast with one another. Moral psychologists are in agreement that becoming less self-righteous and more open-minded is paramount to cooperating. In sum, this site is about learning why we do what we do in hopes of gaining an appreciation and respect for all forms of life.