It takes more than intelligence to avoid a toxic relationship. As Kristen Fuller, M.D., writes: “I myself had all the tools to avoid a toxic relationship, but I entered into an emotionally and mentally toxic relationship with someone who seemed … Continue reading
Thanksgiving means giving thanks. Thanks to whom? There’s the rub. If you look gratitude up in the dictionary you’ll find: the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness: “she expressed her gratitude to the … Continue reading
A reader asks if I have any insights into the post-election hysteria, i.e., melting down and having to grieve because Hillary Clinton lost. And the assassination threats on social media. And the verbal, even physical, bullying of people suspected to have … Continue reading
Statism refers to the belief in expansive, never-ending government. Statism is the opposite extreme of the American Constitution and Bill of Rights. These documents severely limited government, saying government may only do the handful of things the documents specify it … Continue reading
What does it mean to be “naive”? Does it always involve innocence or honest misunderstanding? Not exactly. Because after the fact people will tell you things like, “I was so naive. But if I’m really honest about it, I actually … Continue reading
I keep hearing the question: How to weather political differences with friends and associates, given this combative presidential election year? Then I read this at Psychology Today online, by Susan Heitler Ph.D.: The impulse to convince others of the rightness … Continue reading
Don’t you hate it when people interrupt you? Is it just rudeness? Or is it something more? Something can be rude, but also have an explanation. An explanation does not have to be an excuse. With interruptions, the most likely … Continue reading
What makes people want to be lied to? The presidential election is an obvious example. The candidate ahead in most of the polls is a woman most of the same people polled regard as a liar. It happens in everyday … Continue reading
“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” –Mahatma Gandhi “There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved.” –George Sand “Happiness depends upon ourselves.” — Aristotle “Most … Continue reading
People talk about the psychological importance of humility. For example, reformed alcoholics or drug addicts will say, “Until I learned humility, I could not become sober.” They’re certainly on to something profound and important here. But is it really humility … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd: Your article, “The Generation that Isn’t Growing Up,” speaks directly to our situation. We have a 24-year-old son who has no friends (beyond those he has met online), no girlfriend, no driver’s license, no job, nothing. He … Continue reading
In an article on children, philosopher Stephen Hicks makes an interesting case against homework for school-aged kids. Less interesting than the argument itself are the reasons Hicks provides. He writes: Everyone says that they want children to grow up able … Continue reading