Entrepreneurship and Capitalist Culture – Myths and Truths – Part 1

Entrepreneurship and capitalism often spark intense debates. While some see entrepreneurship as a path to personal and social development, others criticize it as a form of modern enslavement. This essay explores the role of the free market as a mechanism for wealth creation and well-being, debunking common misconceptions about capitalism. Using the concept of “high reward states,” it argues that economic freedom is essential for individual and collective prosperity, challenging criticisms of capitalism and excessive market regulation. Continue reading Entrepreneurship and Capitalist Culture – Myths and Truths – Part 1

Neurociencia/Neuroscience

Three short divulgation essays – 3 Increasing well-being: the neuroscience of good habits

Well-being is a broad concept encompassing multiple dimensions, all unified by subjective states of positive mood and long-term pleasure. Despite the overestimation of the impact of certain methods such as supplements or therapies without sufficient scientific backing, there are habits with strong empirical evidence that significantly enhance well-being. This essay explores, from a neuroscience perspective, the impact of exercise, meditation, sleep, and nutrition on well-being. It highlights that exercise not only improves physical health but also plays a crucial role in mental health by alleviating anxiety and depression, enhancing cognition, and increasing resilience to stress. Likewise, meditation has positive effects on emotional regulation, pain control, and brain plasticity, with demonstrated benefits at the structural and functional levels of the brain. Continue reading Three short divulgation essays – 3 Increasing well-being: the neuroscience of good habits

Filosofía/Philosophy

Ethics, intelligence and the progress of culture and society

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

Filosofía/Philosophy

The fallacy of poverty and the utilitarian justification of freedom

The essay explores the justification of political-socioeconomic systems from individualist and collectivist perspectives. It examines the dilemma of wealth distribution and how different philosophies, such as capitalism and socialism, address poverty and general well-being. The argument is made that individual freedom, along with the ability to achieve high states of reward, is key to prosperity and poverty eradication. Limiting freedom to combat poverty is seen as a mistake that has historically led to adverse outcomes. Ultimately, the essay emphasizes that the true solution to poverty lies in a system that enables individuals to develop their capacities and generate wealth without coercion. Continue reading The fallacy of poverty and the utilitarian justification of freedom

Ciencia/Science

The science of mindfulness vs relaxation techniques. Are they the same? Are ones better than the others?

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are often confused, as both can reduce stress and improve well-being. However, there are key differences between them. While mindfulness focuses on present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance, relaxation techniques aim to induce a state of calm and tranquility. Studies have shown that both practices effectively reduce distress, but mindfulness meditation may offer additional benefits by decreasing rumination and enhancing emotional regulation. Although the evidence is not conclusive, mindfulness appears to have a deeper impact on stress reduction compared to traditional relaxation methods. Continue reading The science of mindfulness vs relaxation techniques. Are they the same? Are ones better than the others?

Filosofía/Philosophy

A vision about ethics and morality based on science. Some reflections.

Sam Harris’ book The Moral Landscape argues that morality should be based on the well-being of conscious beings and that science can objectively determine which actions contribute to this well-being. Harris rejects moral relativism and claims that we already know enough about the brain and its relationship with the world to identify correct answers regarding morality. However, criticisms from philosophical objectivism argue that happiness is not the standard of morality but its consequence and that rational values are the true ethical foundation. The essay suggests that reward, rather than mere happiness, is the fundamental criterion of morality, highlighting self-esteem as the central axis of human well-being. Additionally, it discusses how morality could apply even to artificial intelligences with reward patterns, regardless of their subjective consciousness. Continue reading A vision about ethics and morality based on science. Some reflections.

Filosofía/Philosophy

Four short essays – 4 On Responsibility

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

Filosofía/Philosophy

The Master and the Common Man in the Tao Te Ching – Some Reflections

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

Psicología/Psychology

Returning to Uruguay and the broken window

The essay reflects on the “broken window” theory and its relationship with the care of public spaces in Montevideo, contrasting it with Europe. It examines how urban disorder, such as graffiti and litter, can influence perceptions of insecurity and create a vicious cycle of transgression and neglect. Studies like those by Wilson and Kelling are explored, highlighting that maintaining public order improves perceptions of safety, even if it doesn’t necessarily reduce actual crime. Social factors such as poverty and racial context that shape these perceptions are also discussed. Finally, the importance of caring for public spaces to enhance urban quality of life is emphasized. Continue reading Returning to Uruguay and the broken window

Filosofía/Philosophy

The real bias is moral – Artificial Intelligence

This article reflects on the concept of moral bias in discussions about artificial intelligence, specifically in relation to Thomas Metzinger’s essay on “Benevolent Artificial Anti-Natalism.” It questions whether a superintelligence would prioritize eliminating human suffering over maximizing well-being, arguing that this hierarchy reflects a cultural bias rather than a universal truth. Furthermore, it challenges the prevailing view of AI as a tool for solving human problems without considering its potential autonomy and free will, prompting a rethinking of our ethical expectations regarding these emerging technologies. Continue reading The real bias is moral – Artificial Intelligence