In this enlightening Life's Dirty Little Secrets episode hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry delve deep with the Buddhist philosopher, Stephen Batchelor on navigating ethical dilemmas in a world bound by societal norms. In this episode, Stephen challenges listeners to find courage and clarity in uncertainty, and to embrace radical self-acceptance as a means to thoughtful, compassionate living.Touching on the need for like-minded communities amid the decline of traditional institutions, this episode encourages individuals to consciously forge new support systems. Stephen's call for a personal approach to spirituality and ethics resonates throughout the discussion, advocating for a non-binary grasp of morality.Tune in to explore the balance between individual beliefs and societal pressures, and how meditation groups can anchor us in a turbulent sea of systemic issues. "Good and Evil with Stephen Batchelor" is a must-hear for those wrestling with life's complex ethical questions.Highlights: The Nature of Ethical Choices Personal Values vs. Societal Pressures Inner Values and Intuition Stress, Binary Thinking, and Language Self-Acceptance and GrowthTimestamps:[00:00] Striking similarities in inner struggles, liberating experience.[05:07] Overwhelmed by thoughts, emotions, habits, regrets, grudges. Ethical uncertainty.[06:35] Striving for best intentions often leads astray.[12:58] Ethics is about becoming the best version of oneself.[14:25] Ethics is about shaping and forming oneself.[18:29] Tradition must adapt to the changing world.[23:45] Ethics and imagination crucial for societal change.[26:02] Encouraging tough questions, creativity, and ethical change.[28:20] Marvel at the mysterious complexity of human society.[33:07] Influential counterculture can inspire real societal change.[36:22] Challenging binary thinking for ethical understanding.[41:35] Language reinforces binary habits, rooted in evolution.[43:58] Radical self-acceptance is vital in ethical traininStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.