Still Wondering

Still Wondering is an op-ed column, posted roughly twice a month. Topics range widely: the mystique in college admissions; evangelical atheists; aging; political slogans; a meaningful life . . . and more.  For each I dig deeper, not to find more facts, but to sort out ideas: identify assumptions, clarify logic, imagine solutions. I’m a philosopher, and that’s what we do.

In my professional life I focused on ethics, bioethics, and political theory. My books were about college athletics, the practice of bioethics, moral luck, worldly virtue, and “blocked exchanges” — the limits on what should be for sale.

In this newsletter you will find a distrust of slogans and buzzwords.  Terms like “Identity politics,” “socialism,” “family values” – there’s no end – are meant to close the discussion. I try to open it.

Politically I’m an independent leftie, skeptical and pragmatic.  (For example, I want the world Bernie wants, but I’ve never supported him as a candidate.) Spiritually I’m agnostic, but also a defender of faith, recognizing both the glory and the horror that religions have produced. Neither cancels the other.

Most of all, I value careful, reflective, respectful conversation. Each column is meant to foster that. Comments are welcome and may find their way into future posts. (BTW, the owl is aspirational . . .)

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