I use philosophy in daily life, and I use philosophy while being a therapist. First, let me define what I mean by philosophy. Philosophy has five branches: Metaphysics — In other words, “What is it?” Epistemology — In other words, … Continue reading
Politicians and intellectuals are always talking about how businesses ‘should’ act, for the supposed sake of the greater good. The notion that businesses operate and make decisions only with the consent of the government is known as fascism. There are … Continue reading
First, here’s the problem with Democrats: They claim that socialism is good in theory AND good in practice. It’s good in theory, they claim, because the purpose of the individual is to take care of his fellow man. Government’s purpose … Continue reading
Awhile back, I read an article at MSNBC.com about a study for antidepressant drug research. The main thrust of the article was how some participants who were given placebos (instead of the genuine drugs) actually improved and felt better. While … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd, I have been married to my husband for almost 18 years. He is not very communicative, somewhat blunt and not very trusting of anyone. He is quite well off and has always provided a very comfortable life … Continue reading
Advocates of individual rights sometimes debate whether it’s better to vote for the Republican, or to abstain altogether (or vote for a third-party candidate with zero possibility of victory.) I like the way Ayn Rand put it back in 1972, … Continue reading
The Wall Street Journal (8/22/12) reports online: The middle class — defined as households with between two-thirds and double the nation’s median income — has shrunk considerably over the past few decades, a decline that has been greatly exacerbated by … Continue reading
A slogan reads: ‘Most people with low self-esteem have earned it.’ It’s a provocative statement. But it’s true. Who can identify why it’s true? First, let’s define self-esteem. Self-esteem means a pervasive sense that one is worthy of existence, and … Continue reading
I recently saw a pro-Obama bumper sticker. It reads: “Obama Cares.” Oh, really? Cares about … what? Based on his actions, Obama cares about: 1) Raising income taxes on those who make more than $250,000 a year. Never mind that … Continue reading
In response to being called a ‘right-wing nut job’ by Obama’s former press secretary Robert Gibbs, Donald Trump said the following: ‘The Obama representatives like Robert Gibbs attack people viciously, but people like me will not be silent and will … Continue reading
People talk about “self-esteem” as if it’s something you purchase at the store, or are lucky enough to win in the lottery. Some people become depressed that they never “get it.” Others look to external agents — healthy things, such … Continue reading
Conclusion of yesterday’s column. Elizabeth’s naivetis staggering and self-evident. She lives off her wealthy parents and demands that ‘society’ give away all its money, by force if necessary. She denies the right of the shoe storeowner to his private property. … Continue reading