Philosopher Helen De Cruz discusses her new book, "Wonderstruck: How Wonder and Awe Shape the Way We Think". De Cruz explores the transformative role of wonder and awe in an uncertain world and reveals how they are catalysts that can help us reclaim what makes life worth living and preserve the things we find wonderful and valuable in our lives.

De Cruz's book, Wonderstruck, is out now: https://bit.ly/3Vthicg

Helen De Cruz is a Belgian philosopher and Danforth Chair in the Humanities at Saint Louis University who specializes in philosophy of religion, experimental philosophy, and philosophy of cognitive science.

Watch more Closer To Truth Chats here: https://t.ly/jJI7e

0:00: The enduring appeal of religion and philosophy in understanding ultimate reality
6:12: Distinction between wonder and awe, their cognitive impact, and self-transcendence
11:56: Concepts of wonder and awe as integral parts of everyday life, plus their impact on human curiosity and cultural practices
17:55: Wonder and awe in human culture, philosophy, and emotions, emphasizing their importance and virtues
22:14: Human wonder, passion, and pursuit of knowledge through art, mathematics, and theology
27:43: Origins and significance of wonder in philosophy and psychology
33:11: Philosophical significance of emotions, magic, religion, and science in consciousness studies
39:23: Impact of wonder and awe in various aspects of life, including magic, neuroscience, and religion
44:52: Significance of wonder and awe in human life, independent of religious beliefs, and their role in scientific paradigm shifts
50:24: How wonder enhances human experience and resilience
55:50: Diverse perspectives on truth, consciousness, and meaning through wonder

Closer To Truth, hosted by Robert Lawrence Kuhn and directed by Peter Getzels, presents the world’s greatest thinkers exploring humanity’s deepest questions. Discover fundamental issues of existence. Engage new and diverse ways of thinking. Appreciate intense debates. Share your own opinions. Seek your own answers.