Though names like Mother Ann Lee and Charles Fourier are not names that ring a bell for most today, they founded two of the most influential utopian movements in US history. 19th Century communes like the Shakers and Brook Farm are gone today their legacy – politically and culturally, are all around us. Chris Jennings is the author of “Paradise Now: The Story of American Utopianism.” Steve Paulson sat down with Jennings and asked him about what is now a dirty word, utopia.
Intelligent. Optimistic. Curious.
Audio
Philosopher Alva Noe says it's a mistake to regard consciousness as strictly a product of our brain. He says consciousness is something we do.
Anne Strainchamps reports on the new vogue for hand-made goods in America. She visits a major crafts show and speaks with vendors and shoppers.
Andrew Solomon talks with Steve Paulson about his own experience with depression, and why depressive illness is becoming more common.
Adam Hanft and Faith Popcorn are the authors of the “Dictionary of the Future.” We hear lots of examples of the “words, terms and trends that define the way we’ll live, work and talk.”
Alexander Nehamas is the author of “Nietzsche: Life as Literature.” He explains Nietzsche’s ideas and explains why he is still important today.
What have the recent leaks about the NSA's surveillance program have revealed? Computer scientist and independent scholar Susan Landau gives us her perspective, and weighs in on the questions of inquiries, and checks and balances.
You can also hear our extended conversation with Landau.
Amy Tan talks with Anne Strainchamps and recalls how her mother used to believe the spirits of their ancestors dwelled inside the computer. How else could Amy know all the family secrets?
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