Episode Notes [00:00] The Importance of Questioning [01:21] Introduction to Curated Questions [02:20] Meet Kevin Kelly [03:56] Kevin Kelly's Mentor: Stewart Brand [05:33] The Role of Questions in Intellectual Traditions [06:47] Disequilibrium and Growth [10:21] Embodied Questions and Exploration [11:11] Balancing Exploration and Exploitation [11:50] The Inefficiency of Questioning [15:53] The Abundance Mindset [18:39] The Inevitable and Quality Questions [19:26] Hill Climbing vs. Hill Making [22:28] The Challenge of Innovation [24:13] The Beauty of Engineering and Innovation [24:34] Navigating the Frontier of New Technologies [25:33] The Role of AI in Question Formulation [26:43] Challenges in Advancing AI Capabilities [29:11] The Long Now Foundation and the 10,000 Year Clock [29:56] Transmitting Values Over Time [31:03] Ethics in AI and Self-Driving Cars [33:26] The Art of Questioning [34:04] Photography: Capturing vs. Creating [36:12] The Inefficiency of Exploration [38:36] Daily Practice and Long-Term Success [40:17] The Importance of Quantity for Quality [43:22] Final Thoughts and Encouragement on Questioning [46:24] Summary Takeaways Resources Mentioned Wired Magazine Whole Earth Review WELL Hackers Conference What Technology Wants by Kevin Kelly The Inevitable by Kevin Kelly Cool Tools Project Long Now Foundation Stewart Brand Socratic Method Koan René Descartes Conde Nast Vouge Olivetti Typewriter Trolley Problem Terry Gross Lex Friedman Tim Ferriss KK.org Kevin2Kelly on Instagram Recomendo Newsletter Excellent Advice for Living Beauty Pill Producer Ben Ford Questions Asked When did you first understand the power of questions? Can I do that? Can that be something that you can learn? How did questions function differently between Eastern versus Western intellectual traditions? What role do you think embodied questions those we explore through doing rather than thinking play in developing wisdom? What's on the other side of the hill? What happens if you go to the end? What's the origin of this? How should one think about the exploratory in one's life? Is there anything that you would add to your list of 15 statements that define what makes a quality question? Is there a qualitative difference between the questions humans are asking and the questions our AI systems are beginning to formulate? What do you think would help them get there? Any idea on a forcing function on how we get them [LLMs] to ask the better questions so that they might improve in that direction? What were some novel questions that broke your brain at the time in thinking about this 10,000-year clock or beyond? What's it good for? What would you use it for? What else could you do over the long term for 10,000 years? How do you transmit values over time? How do you evolve values that need to change, and how do you make a difference? How do even know what you don't want to change? What do you want to continue? What's the most essential aspects of our civilization that we don't want to go away? What are the rules? What is the system? How do you pass things along in time and not change the ones you don't wanna change, and make sure you change the ones that are more adaptable so they can adapt? What do you think about questioning itself as an art form? How has being a photographer influenced the way you question reality, visually compared to verbally? Are you a photographer that takes photos or makes photos? What will happen? What will happen next? What are your right now questions that you are wrestling with or working with in your life? Can someone else do what I'm trying to do here? Am I more me in doing my art or more me in doing the writing? Do you have any other thoughts or encouragement about questions that we haven't explored? What makes a good question? How do you ask a good question? What questions do you dwell on to be in purposeful imbalance? What is your practice in embracing the inefficient nature of questions to achieve breakthroughs? What are the new hills you can build and frontiers you can explore? How can you use your curiosity and humanity to pursue questions that trend toward the fringes?…
Rob sits down the Centre for Independent Studies executive director Tom Switzer. Tom discusses with Rob what so called ‘Classical Liberalism’ is and why he is convinced it is best for society. This leads to the question if it works better, why don’t more people believe in it?
Rob sits down the Centre for Independent Studies executive director Tom Switzer. Tom discusses with Rob what so called ‘Classical Liberalism’ is and why he is convinced it is best for society. This leads to the question if it works better, why don’t more people believe in it?
Watch here: https://youtu.be/9kHg5sDRbHE In this episode, we delve into the controversial world of the Intellectual Dark Web (IDW) with guest Jamie Q. Roberts, a political theorist and commentator on digital discourse and dissent. We unpack the origins of the IDW, a loose network of academics, commentators, and public intellectuals who challenge mainstream narratives on culture, politics, and identity. Roberts explores how the IDW gained traction online, its appeal to audiences disillusioned with traditional institutions, and the tensions it reveals within liberal democratic societies. From free speech debates to culture wars, Joe Rogan to Sam Harris, we examine the influence and contradictions of this online movement—and what its rise tells us about the state of public intellectual life in the digital age. Roberts’ book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Intellectual-Dark-Web-History-Possible-ebook/dp/B0DYNPVKGJ 👉 Help promote sound economics: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/…
Watch here: https://youtu.be/m1-tzuQjbFc In this episode, we explore the history of evangelical Christianity in Australia with guest Stuart Piggin, a leading historian and author on the subject. Drawing on his extensive research, Piggin unpacks the complex relationship between evangelicalism and liberalism throughout Australian history. We examine how evangelical movements have shaped, and been shaped by, Australia's evolving political, social, and cultural landscapes—particularly the liberal values of individual freedom, moral reform, and civic responsibility. 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ Subscribe to all our shows: Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so that you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we’re joined by Eamonn Butler, Director of the Adam Smith Institute, to discuss the economic philosophy of liberalism. From Adam Smith’s "invisible hand" to modern free-market principles, we explore how liberal economic thought has shaped prosperity, innovation, and policy. How do Smith’s ideas on free markets, competition, and limited government remain relevant today? What lessons can we learn from classical liberal thinkers to tackle contemporary economic challenges? Join us for a fascinating conversation on the foundations of economic liberalism and its ongoing impact. 👉 Help promote sound economics: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Super for Housing: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/super-for-housing/ NZ’s housing policy success and implications for Australia: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/less-crowded-houses-the-success-of-nzs-housing-policy-reforms-and-implications-for-australia/ How government obscures its spending: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/gorillas-in-the-mist-how-government-obscures-its-spending/ Government spending and inflation: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/government-spending-and-inflation/ The Truth About The Tax Burden: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-truth-about-the-tax-burden/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Eamonn Butler 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/K_OzhR8wSX0 Author and historian of ideas Johan Norberg dives into Donald Trump's tariffs, the ongoing challenges to liberty, and the future of free market capitalism. From protectionism and populism to innovation and global trade, Norberg brings clarity, context, and compelling arguments about where we're headed—and why defending economic freedom matters more than ever. 👉 Support Free Markets! 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: The only thing America liberated itself from was prosperity: https://www.cis.org.au/commentary/opinion/the-only-thing-america-liberated-itself-from-was-prosperity/ How government obscures its spending: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/gorillas-in-the-mist-how-government-obscures-its-spending/ Less Crowded Houses. NZ’s housing policy success and implications for Australia: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/less-crowded-houses-the-success-of-nzs-housing-policy-reforms-and-implications-for-australia/ Land Use Restrictions and the Australian Housing Policy Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/land-use-restrictions-and-the-australian-housing-policy-debate/ Housing Affordability and Supply Restrictions: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/housing-affordability-and-supply-restrictions/ Housing is becoming a pipe dream for young Australians: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/housing-is-becoming-a-pipe-dream-for-young-australians/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Special Guest Johan Norberg 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 6ZARZGZWZOTBB12H 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies.…
Watch here: https://youtu.be/0jUZKIoyDPY In this episode of Liberalism in Question, Rob sits down with historian and journalist Simon Heffer to explore the rich and complex history of liberalism. From the intellectual breakthroughs of the Scottish Enlightenment to the enduring influence of Adam Smith, we trace the evolution of liberal thought and its impact on modern society. How did thinkers like David Hume, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill shape the principles of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government? What challenges has liberalism faced over the centuries, and how has it adapted? Join us for a deep dive into the historical roots of classical liberalism. 👉 Help Australia remember its history: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Fractured Loyalties. Australian citizenship and the crisis of civic virtue: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fractured-loyalties-australian-citizenship-and-the-crisis-of-civic-virtue/ Interest, Usury and the Common Good: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/interest-usury-and-the-common-good/ The Argument For Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fortifying-a-healthy-democracy-why-young-australians-must-learn-the-art-of-debate/ The Future of Australian Multiculturalism: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-future-of-australian-multiculturalism/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Simon Heffer 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch here: https://youtu.be/TgeMnPeo-Tc In this episode of Liberalism in Question, Rob sits down with historian and journalist Simon Heffer to explore the rich and complex history of liberalism. From the intellectual breakthroughs of the Scottish Enlightenment to the enduring influence of Adam Smith, we trace the evolution of liberal thought and its impact on modern society. How did thinkers like David Hume, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill shape the principles of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government? What challenges has liberalism faced over the centuries, and how has it adapted? Join us for a deep dive into the historical roots of classical liberalism. 👉 Help Australia remember its history: 🔹 Become a member: https://www.cis.org.au/membership-2-step-1/ 🔹 Make a donation: https://www.cis.org.au/support/donate/today/ 🔹 Make a donation: Learn more: https://www.cis.org.au/ 👉 FURTHER READING: Fractured Loyalties. Australian citizenship and the crisis of civic virtue: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fractured-loyalties-australian-citizenship-and-the-crisis-of-civic-virtue/ Interest, Usury and the Common Good: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/interest-usury-and-the-common-good/ The Argument For Debate: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/fortifying-a-healthy-democracy-why-young-australians-must-learn-the-art-of-debate/ The Future of Australian Multiculturalism: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/the-future-of-australian-multiculturalism/ 👉 CREDITS 🔹 Hosted by Robert Forsyth 🔹 Guest Simon Heffer 🔹 Produced by Randall Evans 🔹 Music Licence Code: 4IBEVSEILUCGIHLX 🔹 All thanks to the Centre for Independent Studies. Subscribe to all our shows: What You Need to Know About delivers concise insights from CIS experts, breaking down complex topics like policy, economics, and societal challenges. Subscribe here: https://whatyouneedtoknowabout.podbean.com/ The CIS Research Collection delivers our research papers in an audio format so you can listen to them on the go. Subscribe here: https://cisresearch.podbean.com/ Liberalism in Question features thought-provoking interviews with world experts in politics and culture from a Classical Liberal perspective. Subscribe here: https://liberalisminquestion.podbean.com/ CIS Events Experience: From the studios of CIS our events team brings you engaging discussions from our live events, featuring lectures, panel discussions, and conversations with leading experts: https://cisevents.podbean.com/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch here: https://youtu.be/2kHEZVcYaQA In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we welcome Andrew Norton, who has worked in higher education policy since 1997. We talk about the cycles of liberalism and also tackle a crucial debate: Are universities champions of liberal ideals, or have they become anti-liberal institutions? #LiberalismInQuestion #AndrewNorton #HigherEducation #UniversityDebate #Liberalism #AcademicFreedom #HigherEdPolicy #FreeSpeech #EducationMatters #UniversitiesAndLiberalism #IntellectualFreedom #CampusPolitics #LiberalIdeals #AntiLiberalism #AcademicDiscourse #EducationReform #PoliticalIdeologies #ThoughtLeadership #PublicPolicy #UniversityCulture #IdeologicalDiversity #HigherEdTrends #CriticalThinking #DebateAndDiscourse #LearningAndLiberty All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/z8KS8QucurA Emilie Dye sits down with Senator James Paterson, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cybersecurity, to discuss the challenges facing democracies in an increasingly digital world. Should the government attempt to regulate against misinformation? Is TikTok spying on us for China? What about manipulating our election? Is Australia on track to become a vasal state to China? Can we really trust the United States, particularly under a Trump administration? The conversation explores concerns about foreign interference in elections, the influence of social media platforms like TikTok, and how authoritarian regimes may leverage technology to shape public opinion. Senator Paterson highlights why Taiwan’s future is critical to Australia’s security, the importance of transparency in combating misinformation, and the role of international partnerships in maintaining a free and open society. This episode of Liberalism in Question unpacks the issues shaping Australia’s democratic resilience and global stability. #LiberalismInQuestion #Democracy #Cybersecurity #JamesPaterson #Australia #TikTok #ForeignInterference #Taiwan #GlobalPolitics All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/V1g0cQQFSOc This philosophical exploration delves into the ethical complexities of warfare, euthanasia, and colonialism. It examines the morality of self-defense, the right to end one's life, and the lasting impacts of colonial dominance. The analysis encourages reflection on the balance between justice, autonomy, and power, urging viewers to consider the deeper moral implications of conflict, control, and the value of human life. Nigel Biggar is Regius Professor Emeritus of Moral Theology at the University of Oxford and author of In Defence of War (Oxford University Press, 2013) and Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning (William Collins, 2023, 2024). Read Nigel Biggar's paper here: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/all-things-considered-making-moral-sense-of-the-wars-in-ukraine-and-gaza/ All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
Watch Here: https://youtu.be/T6Ga9mjdFhs All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies In this compelling interview, Robert Forsyth engages in a deep conversation with Mary Eberstadt, acclaimed author and social commentator, on the profound effects of the sexual revolution and the critical importance of families in sustaining a healthy liberal democracy. Together, they explore how the cultural shifts of the 20th century have transformed societal norms, personal identity, and the political landscape, while discussing why the family remains a cornerstone of freedom and civic life. What impact has the sexual revolution had on modern society? How do strong family structures contribute to the success of democratic systems? Robert and Mary unpack these questions, offering thought-provoking insights on the intersections of culture, politics, and the future of Western civilization. #sexualrevolution #christianity #liberalism #family…
In this episode of Liberalism in Question, David Kinley, Chair of Human Rights Law at the University of Sydney, joins us to explore the relationship between freedom, liberty, and responsibility. As the author of The Liberty Paradox, David delves into the distinctions between these core concepts of liberalism and the responsibilities that come with exercising freedom. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how liberalism can navigate these tensions in today's world. Watch here: https://youtu.be/0FS0cL7nqUk All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #Liberalism #HumanRights #DavidKinley #FreedomVsLiberty #Responsibility #Philosophy #PoliticalTheory #TheLibertyParadox #LiberalismInQuestion #Liberty #Freedom #Ethics #CivilRights #LawAndSociety…
In this episode of Liberalism in Question, we are joined by Australian businessman, entrepreneur, and free-market advocate Ron Manners. As the founder of the Mannkal Economic Education Foundation and a vocal proponent of individual liberty, Manners shares his perspective on the evolution of classical liberalism, the role of free markets in society, and the current challenges facing economic freedom globally. Tune in as we explore the intersection of personal responsibility, limited government, and the path forward for liberal values in a rapidly changing world. Watch here: https://youtu.be/EVmqHRwsooY All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #auspol #libertarian #mining…
In this eye-opening interview, Robert Forsyth sits down with Nicholas Eberstadt, a leading expert on North Korea and a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, to dissect the origins and implications of North Korea's unique family dictatorship. The conversation delves into how the Kim dynasty has maintained an iron grip on the country through a blend of political strategy and cult of personality. What are the roots of North Korea's dynastic rule? How has the regime's approach influenced its domestic and international policies? Robert and Nicholas explore these questions and provide an in-depth analysis of how the Kim family's authoritarian control has shaped North Korean society and its interactions with the world. Watch here: https://youtu.be/C45cbnu3Q1k All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #northkorea #libertarian #democracy #history…
Join Robert Forsyth in this enlightening interview with Dr. Jonathan Cole, a distinguished scholar and passionate advocate of classical liberalism. Dr. Cole shares his personal journey of conversion to classical liberalism, tracing the profound impact Ludwig von Mises had on his intellectual transformation and understanding of economic and political philosophy. In this engaging discussion, Dr. Cole reflects on his intellectual evolution, the key principles of classical liberalism, and how Mises' ideas continue to shape contemporary debates on freedom, markets, and individual rights. Robert and Dr. Cole delve into the relevance of Mises' theories in today’s political climate and explore how classical liberalism offers solutions to modern challenges. Watch here: https://youtu.be/vr3lSCpaK2o All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies #auspol #mises #libertarian…
In this thought-provoking interview, Robert Forsyth sits down with Behnam Ben Taleblu, a renowned Iran expert and senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), to discuss the evolving landscape of liberalism in Iran. Together, they explore the complexities of Iran's political culture, the rise of reformist and liberal movements, and the challenges posed by the ruling regime. What is the future of liberalism in Iran? Can the country embrace democratic values in the face of internal and external pressures? How do the people of Iran view their role in shaping the future? Robert and Behnam delve into these questions and more, offering unique insights on the current socio-political climate and potential pathways forward for Iran. Watch Here: https://youtu.be/vNHk5nBeEbM All our links: https://linktr.ee/centreforindependentstudies…
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