Conversations on Buddhism, the Problem of Evil and the Value of Philosophy | Q&A

One of my favorite questions & answers discussions so far!

After our God, World and the Self | A Comparative Approach class, we pluge into this wonderful discussion! Carl opens our discussion with a profound inquiry into the true teaching of Buddhism and the value of philosophy in spiritual life. And then we think about wholesome philosophy vs unwholesome philosophical wrangling and what makes the difference between the two. Then, Carl asks and even more important question: what does it mean for God to accept "hate" and "evil" as a valid offering of devotion? Also, how do people overcome "bad" actions by not considering them as bad and thus overcoming shame and guilt? Then, we discuss the inner workings of japa practice with Natalie: is quantity the main priority in japa? Should I chant quickly to say the mantra more or slowly to say the mantra more meaningfully? Then, we have a delightful discussion with Natalie regarding evil: How Do You Know What You're Doing Is Good? What if you think you're good but you are actually evil? Using this idea, we can understand how to forgive everyone and how to still protect your boundaries while forgiving everyone. Finally, we discuss ethics and absolute morality with Lāllā! We close with a reading of some of Tim's comments about Buddhism.

00:00:00 Why Do Philosophy
00:13:46 Can Philosophy be Unwholesome?
00:20:08 Why Does God Accept Evil?
00:29:14 Should I Do My Mantra Quickly or Slowly?
00:35:00 How Do You Know You Aren't Evil?
00:52:58 How To Forgive Everyone
01:07:16 Is there A Universal Good? "Pagan" Ethics.
01:16:19 Is There An Absolute Ethics?
01:29:37 Some reflections on Buddhism.

Here is a playlist of all our Q&A sessions over the years.