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How to Think Better
In learning how to think better, General Semantics provides a system of communication and thought that allows us to move beyond the limitations that our language forces upon our thinking.
General semantics is the renowned, practical discipline that applies modern scientific thinking and language strategies to solve problems.
Through the application of general semantics ideas and principles, general semantics brings about clearer thinking, peaceful interaction, and greater sanity to one’s life. General semantics has served as the foundation for numerous approaches to human problems with its unique applications adapted from modern science.
General semantics was introduced by Alfred Korzybski in his 1933 book, Science and Sanity: An Introduction to Non-Aristotelian Systems and General Semantics.
Dr. Martin H. Levinson is a member of the Authors Guild, National Book Critics Circle, and PEN America. He is the book review editor for ETC: A Review of General Semantics, a past president of The Institute of General Semantics, and a contributing editor for The Satirist: America’s Most Critical Online Journal. He has published ten books and numerous articles and poems in various publications. He holds a PhD from NYU and lives in Riverhead, New York.
The Institute of General Semantics
The Institute of General Semantics promotes a scientific approach to understanding human behavior, especially as related to symbol systems and language and can help people learn how to think better.
The Institute promotes the application of proven principles that guide advancements in critical thinking, rational behavior, and general sanity.
We had a great discussion with Martin and he addressed several topics and areas of concern within General Semantics:
- The polarity of language
- The challenge of civil discourse in an entertainment environment
- Delaying your reactions as a unique human experience
- The idea of “dating” as an attitude of historicity reflected in language
- the principle of indexing to avoid stereotyping people
- The Problem with “is” in the English language
- The Map is not the territory
Enjoy the episode!!
Resources:
- The Institute of General Semantics
- Become a member of the Institute (membership includes the quarterly journal ETC.)
- IGS YouTube Channel
- Amusing Ourselves To Death – Neil Postman (book Dr. Levinson mentioned early on in the podcast in reference to politics as entertainment)
- Crazy Talk Stupid Talk – Neil Postman
- Practical Fairy Tales for Everyday Living – Martin Levinson
- How To Start A Difficult Conversation Cheat sheet – Free Resource
- A Nice Person’s Guide to Becoming More Assertive – Article