Does the universe have a purpose or just meaningless order? This essay explores how to understand objective morality in a cosmos where good and evil are not tied to any ultimate meaning. A philosophical reflection on ethics, nihilism, and the problem of meaning. Continue reading The Universe Has Order but No Meaning: How Does That Affect Ethics, Good, and Evil?
The essay Against Moral Arithmetic challenges the tendency to quantify the value of human life in numerical terms, exploring the limitations of consequentialism and utilitarianism in ethics. Through an analysis of the Trolley Problem and the theories of philosophers such as Peter Singer, Immanuel Kant, and Judith Jarvis Thomson, it argues that moral decisions cannot be reduced to an arithmetic calculation of well-being. Instead, it advocates for a more human and contextual perspective that recognizes the uniqueness of each life and rejects the instrumentalization of individuals in the name of collective good. Continue reading Against moral arithmetic
The debate on free will has been shaken by the rise of materialist determinism, driven by neuroscience and physics. Authors like Sam Harris argue that our decisions are mere products of neural processes and external factors, stripping consciousness of its autonomy. However, this essay challenges that perspective, exploring arguments in defense of a radical form of free will that might withstand deterministic objections. Is our will an illusion, or is there still room for true human agency? Continue reading In Defense of Free Will: How Modern Materialism and Determinism Are Mistaken
Cultural and social prosperity has historically been driven by science, philosophy, and art, but also by political stability and freedom. However, not every utopian idea leads to well-being. In this essay, we explore how ethics and intelligence contribute to progress, analyzing the role of morality, social incentives, and philosophical doubt in the evolution of prosperous societies. Continue reading Ethics, intelligence and the progress of culture and society
The debate on gender identity focuses on the interrelation between mind and body, questioning the validity of the objectivist argument that denies trans identity based solely on biological sex. This argument, often put forth by figures from the conservative political spectrum, asserts that what a person feels does not alter their objective reality. However, this stance ignores the fact that gender identity involves both biological and mental aspects and that human beings are integrated wholes where the physical and the subjective are interconnected.
The essay refutes the comparison between trans identity and identification with other immutable characteristics, such as height, arguing that gender identity is determined by complex neural and hormonal processes. Through an analogy, it suggests that if a person were to wake up in another being’s body without losing their identity, they would still be who they are, reinforcing the idea that gender cannot be reduced solely to the body. Finally, the ethical and moral significance of recognizing gender identity and respecting the psychological integrity of trans individuals is emphasized, avoiding simplistic reductionisms that fragment the human being. Continue reading The transgender and the subject of human essence
This essay analyzes the concept of responsibility in a socio-political context, questioning the contemporary tendency to attribute guilt indiscriminately. It argues that responsibility does not imply a metaphysical obligation to act against social problems but is instead based on individual choice and the benefits it brings to a society oriented toward high states of reward. The idea that inaction equals guilt is criticized, as this perspective can lead to a life of servitude rather than a legitimate pursuit of personal fulfillment. Finally, a vision of responsibility is proposed that respects individual autonomy and fosters a balance between reciprocity and freedom. Continue reading Four short essays – 4 On Responsibility
The essay explores the concept of equality before the law and its evolution in modern societies, particularly the shift toward affirmative action or positive discrimination. It examines the tensions between meritocracy and policies aimed at leveling the playing field for disadvantaged groups. While such measures aim to address historical injustices, they may inadvertently create ethical and practical dilemmas, including undermining personal agency, fostering resentment, and opening avenues for political corruption. The author argues for a nuanced understanding of the consequences of positive discrimination and questions whether it truly aligns with principles of justice and societal well-being. Continue reading The unequal treatment for non-equal people – Some reflections
Aristotle’s concept of the unmoved mover has been widely used to justify the existence of God. However, this essay argues that the concept does not necessarily support such a conclusion. While my perspective on this argument has evolved and is explored in depth in my book This Is It, here I offer a critical reflection on how motion and the structures of reality can be explained without invoking a transcendent being, rethinking the relationship between causality, metaphysics, and ethics. Continue reading The unmoved mover is not an argument in favor of the existence of God
This essay explores the concepts from the Tao Te Ching regarding the Master and the common man, highlighting the difference between acting naturally and selflessly versus seeking results with selfish intentions. It reflects on how the conscious pursuit of virtues like justice or power can detract from the authenticity of human actions. The importance of balancing consciousness and unconsciousness in behavior is also discussed, emphasizing how naturalness can influence excellence while acknowledging the need for harmony between these aspects to promote well-being and authenticity. Finally, it analyzes how conscious expectations can affect happiness, suggesting a life more aligned with the Tao as a path to fulfillment. Continue reading The Master and the Common Man in the Tao Te Ching – Some Reflections
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