On Sunday’s episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, Greg Perkins and I answered questions on extremism versus consistency, overcoming lethargy, and more. The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading.

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Whole Podcast: 28 December 2014

Listen or Download:

• Duration: 1:11:44
• Download: Enhanced M4A File (25.7 MB)
• Download: Standard MP3 File (24.7 MB)

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Podcast Segments: 28 December 2014

You can download or listen to my answers to individual questions from this episode below.

Introduction

My News of the Week: I’ve been busy celebrating Christmas!

Question 1: Extremism Versus Consistency

Question: What’s the difference between consistency and extremism? I’m often called an “extremist” for my views – in my view, because I’m very consistent and refuse to compromise. Religious people are often called extremists too, yet that’s really only consistency with their scripture. So how does “extremism” differ from consistency, if at all?

My Answer, In Brief: “Extremism” is a junk concept, often used as a slur to refer to dangerous, totalitarian ideologies. Don’t use it yourself, but if faced with it, don’t take it as a point of pride, but instead try to address the person’s reasonable concerns about your views.

Listen or Download:

• Start Time: 3:03
• Duration: 29:19
• Download: MP3 Segment
• Tags: Compromise, Culture, Extremism, Ideology, Logic, Philosophy, Values

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Overcoming Lethargy

Question: How can I motivate myself to act to further my goals despite my overwhelming lethargy? I struggle with motivating myself to do what I know I should. I’m not inclined to do wrong, but I just find it hard to act to further my goals in life. I’m 26 and I live with my dad while I (slowly) finish my degree. I want to become financially independent and move out on my own, but I struggle with the normal, necessary daily habits required to get this done. For example, my dad wants me to do more house chores, and I can see how this is a fair thing to ask, given that he works two jobs to support both of us. However, when I think about all the things I should be doing a wave of lethargy overcomes me. It’s the same story when I think about the homework I need to do, which isn’t even very hard to do. Job searching and trying to build my resume are also on my mind, but I can’t seem to get motivated to do that either. I have implemented GTD, but obviously once it comes to actually carrying out all of the plans, I can get a good burst of motivation for a short while, but then something doesn’t go my way, and the lethargy hits me again. Both of my parents have clinical depression and anxiety problems, and I have seen first hand how it has affected their lives. I have spent most of my life combating depression and anxiety. I can always summon up a good mood for myself – sometimes by evading the pressure of my responsibilities, which is not good – and when I feel anxiety I am able to calm myself down by introspecting and thinking through it. So I know that I have the tools to solve problems in my life and achieve my goals, but self awareness has only gotten me so far. What can I do to raise my motivation and keep it up? How do I overcome the tendency to procrastinate and ignore my responsibilities? How do I put my philosophy into action?

My Answer, In Brief: For many people, summoning up the motivation to work can be really difficult. Accept that, and find clever ways to help yourself.

Listen or Download:

• Start Time: 32:23
• Duration: 37:39
• Download: MP3 Segment
• Tags: Emotions, Ethics, Mental Health, Motivation, Personality, Productivity, Psychology, Responsibility

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion

Be sure to check out the topics scheduled for upcoming episodes! Don’t forget to submit and vote on questions for future episodes too!

• Start Time: 1:10:02

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio focuses on the application of rational principles to the challenges of real life. It broadcasts live on most Sunday mornings and many Thursday evenings over the internet. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.