A reader writes: Dear Dr. Hurd: A persistent problem I’ve had is why on earth people (and a lot of them) think that if they know a person, somehow that person’s bad behavior is exempt from moral condemnation. For example, … Continue reading
A psychology student writes with the following questions: “What is your opinion on escapism, i.e., the act of escaping everyday stress through fantasy and entertainment? Is it a healthy way to relieve stress?” Dr. Hurd replies: The term “escapism” usually … Continue reading
Following an article I wrote about marriage, a reader commented on Facebook: Marriage requires an enduring commitment, selflessness (dedication to something other than oneself), and a well-developed sense of humor, among other attributes. Selfish people rarely make it work….” Another … Continue reading
“He changed his mind.” Or: “I hope she changes her mind.” Or: “Maybe you can change his mind.” “Change your mind.” It’s a simple, everyday statement. It passes without notice. But it contains more profound assumptions than most of us … Continue reading
The following was published several years ago in my booklet, Human Relationships in Plain English. Are homosexuals “born that way”? There’s no way to answer this question for certain. In order to do so, we would have to know everything … Continue reading
Probably the best tribute to an actor is to mourn not just that actor’s passing, but the loss of the character he brought to life. Many are distressed not just because the actor is gone; but the character — Mr. … Continue reading
“Some of the biggest challenges in relationships come from the fact that most people enter a relationship in order to get something: they’re trying to find someone who’s going to make them feel good. In reality, the only way a … Continue reading
At the very mention of the word “philosophy,” most people tune out and head for the intellectual and psychological equivalent of the hills. But philosophy involves our most fundamental thinking about literally everything: our minds, our purpose in life, how … Continue reading
Few, if any, spouses are together constantly. So you’re undoubtedly apart from your spouse sometimes, too. Ask yourself when you’re coming home at the end of the work day, or after some other period of routine separation: Am I honestly … Continue reading
Healthy people who love life and love themselves make long-range plans. Even if everything is going fine, you need to think about one, five and ten years down the road. The point is not merely to avoid trouble, such as … Continue reading
A Daily Dose of Reason reader asked me to comment on the following Ayn Rand quote in connection with the psychological issues involved in retirement: A central purpose serves to integrate all the other concerns of a man’s life. It … Continue reading
We always hear that after suffering a break-up, you must — above all — avoid the “rebound” effect. If you enter a relationship “too soon” after the breakup of another relationship, it’s automatically and always unhealthy and will always end … Continue reading