Discusses major philosophical theories, thinkers, and the application of philosophy in contemporary issues.

What makes something cool is primarily linked to the concept of autonomy, which means diverging from social norms in a way that feels appropriate. Caleb Warren explains that while autonomy is essential, it must be contextually suitable; for example, some behaviors can be autonomous yet viewed as inappropriate or unacceptable. 

Additionally, Raymond Loewy's theory of 'Most Advanced Yet Acceptable' suggests that people prefer things that are both familiar and surprising. This balance encourages a blend of neophilia and neophobia—people are drawn to new ideas but also seek the comfort of familiarity. Thus, something deemed cool typically embodies originality while still resonating with a sense of familiarity.

The Secret Science of Coolness

What makes things cool?

What makes things cool? | Caleb Warren | TEDxUofA

The hidden science behind what makes something "cool"

The Four-Letter Code to Selling Just About Anything

What Makes Things Cool?

Existentialism is a philosophical inquiry that focuses on the existence of the individual and asserts that individuals must embrace responsibility for their actions and strive to lead authentic lives, despite the universe's inherent absurdity or incomprehensibility. It examines concepts like meaning, purpose, value, existential crises, angst, courage, and freedom. 

The term 'existentialism' was coined by the French philosopher Gabriel Marcel in the mid-1940s, and the movement includes contributions from notable thinkers such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Albert Camus. A central tenet of existentialism is the idea that 'existence precedes essence,' implying that individuals define themselves through their actions and choices rather than through predetermined categories or essences. 

Existentialism emphasizes personal freedom, individual responsibility, and deliberate choice as crucial to self-discovery and finding meaning in life. It rejects traditional systematic philosophies as too abstract, advocating instead for authenticity and concrete human experience. Notably, existentialist themes also explore the absurdity of existence and the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe, as illustrated by works involving the experiences of individuals facing their own freedom and the consequences of their choices.

Existentialism - Wikipedia

Shoshin (Japanese: 初心) is a concept in Zen Buddhism meaning 'beginner's mind.' It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying, similar to how a beginner approaches learning, even at an advanced level. The word is a combination of 'sho' (初), meaning 'beginner' or 'initial,' and 'shin' (心), meaning 'mind'. Shoshin encourages practitioners to counter the hubris and closed-mindedness associated with thinking of oneself as an expert, thus fostering a mindset that remains receptive to new ideas and approaches.

Philosophy

What makes something cool?

What is existentialism?

What does shoshin mean?