Life Examined

What makes men, men?

Over the last 50 years, our notion of masculinity has been steadily changing. Feminism and the shift in gender roles has seen increasing parity between the sexes and culturally we’re embracing a diverse array of sexual identities. So how are these changes impacting our perceptions of what it means to be a man and can men unlearn the old models of sexism, patriarchy and aggression? And are men today actually much happier in more egalitarian relationships at work and more emotionally connected with family?

Building bridges across America’s political divide

Americans today are deeply divided politically and even with an election around the corner that’s unlikely to change anytime soon. So what’s the solution to bridging the gap? How do we learn to talk to each other even when we vehemently disagree? Is there any value to taking the time to understand why people think differently, hear differing perspectives and experiences rather than arguing opinions and debating facts? Is, as Abraham Lincoln famously said, the “best way to destroy an enemy to make him a friend” and to recognize that what divides us politically also can unite us. 

The rich history and promising future of psychedelic therapy

Psychedelics have been used for thousands of years but in a provocative new book “The Immortality Key” author Brian Muraresku explores their impact on early Western civilization. Were the ancient Greeks, Romans and early Chrisitians influenced in their religious practices by psychedelics? Psilocybin, known by many as magic mushrooms, is being used to treat an array of mental disorders, from anxiety and depression to addiction and end of life issues with profound effects for patients. Today, the medical community is once again embracing research into the therapeutic benefits of hallucinogens.

Politics, religion and the role of public discourse in our democracy.

Just weeks away from a historic election, what role will religion play in influencing the candidates and getting out the vote? KCRW’s Jonathan Bastian talks with Randall Balmer, professor of religion at Dartmouth University and an episcopal priest who explains that the influence of religion in today’s political landscape is a relatively new phenomena in America’s history. Later we’ll ask two ministers whether leaders of faith should use their platforms to express their political points of view  or should they stay silent?   

Astrology and our relationship to the cosmos

Astrology has been used for centuries to provide meaning and guidance. How does that translate in 2020? Science dismisses the practice as silly and lightweight but today’s millennials are embracing astrology in record numbers and social media and smartphone apps have turned it into a booming business. What’s the appeal and why are young people turning away from traditional organized religion?

Why the climate emergency is rapidly shifting emotional and physical landscape

The recent fires and extreme heat waves had a devastating impact on much of the west coast of America. In California, Oregan and Washington State thick smoke blanketed the region, confining millions of people to their homes for days. Will our rapidly changing climate impact not just how but where we chose to live? Is extreme weather impacting our emotional well being? And is there a better way to talk about climate change that’s less wonky and more relatable?

A place for religion whether we believe or not

At times of loss and crisis many of us turn to God, whether we believe or not. For some, the Gospels of the Bible provide wisdom and prayer comfort to recenter their lives but increasingly, everyday rituals at home and at work are providing that guidance. Are fitness classes and spiritual consultants filling the void in our spiritual lives?

Unlocking the mysteries of the brain

The most advanced technology ever discovered is the three pound organ encased inside our skulls. In his latest book, “Livewired” neuroscientist David Eagleman describes why our brains are constantly changing: the more the brain absorbs the more it adjusts. How has the pandemic impacted this amazing brain circuitry? And what are the impacts on children's brains, stuck at home with extended hours of screen time?

Technology’s impact on human relationships

For millennia, machines and innovation have transformed our society including our most intimate relationships with one another. The plow, washing machine, chatbots and Artificial Intelligence have shaped relationships in the past and continue to impact how we interact with each other today and into the future. Will new advances in technology diminish the need for human to human interaction?

How surfer Britt Merrick found his ‘spiritual home’ among the waves

For those who love to surf, the act of riding the waves is both a physical and spiritual experience. But for some,it is also a religious one. Britt Merrick, surfer and former lead pastor of Reality Ministries in Carpinteria talks with KCRW’s Jonathan Bastian about surfing and its interconnection with his Christian faith.