How Philosophy Can Make You a Better Thinker and Problem Solver w/ Dr. Liz Jackson

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Can deep philosophical thinking enhance your everyday life?

Dr. Liz Jackson, a leading researcher in epistemology, joins me to talk about the intricacies of her thought process, writing techniques, and lecture preparation. She shares how her methodical approach to writing and lecturing helps her stay productive and grounded and balance intellectual work with personal responsibilities.

Beyond her writing, Dr. Jackson discusses the role of curiosity in driving philosophical inquiry and how studying philosophy equips people with critical thinking skills that extend far beyond the classroom, helping them grow in all areas of life.

One of the episode's highlights is Dr. Jackson's take on the nature of belief and how it differs from faith.

She also touches on the surprising role of faith for an atheist by presenting an open-minded view of how non-believers can still engage with faith in a meaningful way.

Finally, we get into dualism, particularly the distinction between belief and credence, and why understanding both is important for navigating life's complex decisions.

Listen in to hear how philosophy isn't just for academics but has practical applications in your daily life.

Key Takeaways 

Introduction  (00:00)

Dr. Jackson’s approach to writing (01:07)

How philosophy helps develop critical thinking skills (10:12)

The process of developing and refining philosophical ideas (15:56)

The role of meandering in philosophical lectures (23:55)

Importance of curiosity in philosophical inquiry (27:08)

Philosophy as a balance of dissonance and resolution (29:53)

The fundamental role of logic in philosophical reasoning (34:51)

Exploring the nature of belief and faith (41:55)

Distinguishing between faith as attitude and action (44:43)

Motivations for atheists to explore religious faith (51:54)

Additional Resources

Connect with Dr. Liz Jackson

Website: Liz Jackson

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizjackson111

Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results by Stephen Guise https://www.amazon.com/Mini-Habits-Smaller-Bigger-Results/dp/1494882272

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692

Taking Pascal's Wager: Faith, Evidence and the Abundant Life by Michael Rota https://www.amazon.com/Taking-Pascals-Wager-Evidence-Abundant/dp/0830851364

The Will to Believe and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James https://www.gutenberg.org/files/26659/26659-h/26659-h.htm

Books by Simone Weil https://www.amazon.com/stores/Simone-Weil/author/B00P63M96Y

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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.