One of the most common things people ask a psychotherapist like me about is motivation. “I should be doing such-and-such. But I’m not. I don’t feel motivated. Am I depressed?” Right there, in asking such a question, you’re revealing that … Continue reading
We basically have two ways of dealing with other human beings: reason, or force. This fact has social-political implications. But it also has implications for daily life in families, business or other personal relationships. To most of us, force is … Continue reading
Many who oppose the mushrooming welfare/entitlement/debt-deficit state of America warn, “If you don’t get your act together, America, you’re going to wind up like bankrupt socialist welfare states in Europe.” Columnist Mark Steyn [steynonline.com 3/18/14] cites figures suggesting that America … Continue reading
Barack Obama has declared the “Affordable Care Act” a success. Success — by what standard? By what criteria? “Well, at this point, enough people are signing up that the Affordable Care Act is going to work,” Obama said before the … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd, My partner and I are good friends with another couple. (We’re both in lesbian relationships.) Recently, one of the women in that relationship started paying (what I believe to be) inappropriate attention to my girlfriend; sending personal … Continue reading
In a recent column, Democrat Juan Williams wrote: Bill de Blasio is the best thing to ever happen to the School Choice Movement. The New York City mayor is crippling the growth of charter schools by throwing them out of … Continue reading
According to a study at MoneyRates.com, income inequality is actually rising, not falling, during the Obama years. Ironically, in electoral “blue” pro-Obama states, income inequality is rising even higher than in “red” states who didn’t vote for Obama. If it … Continue reading
Emotional abuse is a fancy, clincial term for simply being mean. According to healthcentral.com [1/8/13], there are numerous indications you might be in an emotionally abusive relationship. Examples include: “Emotionally abusive spouses want you all to themselves. They do not … Continue reading
When dealing with someone younger — or older — many people mistakenly make age the primary factor. For example, “You’re younger than I am. You have no idea what I’m talking about.” Why does age have to be the primary … Continue reading
“Central planning” refers to government bureaus and agencies replacing the marketplace when it comes to basic decision-making about goods and services. For example, let’s say the government decided to institute central planning for smart phones. Government planners in Washington DC … Continue reading
One of the expressions people use that concerns me is “do something.” It’s not that I’m against doing something. Quite the contrary: Following up rational, constructive thought with constructive action is crucial. Most people who feel stuck or depressed end … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd, Everything seemed perfect when we first met 8 months ago. Now, my girlfriend is starting to get bossy and controlling. She interrupts me, finishes my sentences, and always seems to have a better way of doing everything. … Continue reading