What makes us human? How can I find purpose in life? How can my relationship survive a rough patch? What do I say to a friend who’s suffering? Does any of this mean anything at all? It’s easy to lose sight of fundamental human concerns amid the churn of the news cycle and the demands of every day. Each week on The Permanent Questions, host David Brooks seeks to return them to our attention through thoughtful conversation with the world’s deepest thinkers.
What this show covers
philosophyhuman dignitysoulspersonhoodmaterialismAI in educationhuman natureJonathan Haidtmoral psychologyThe Radianceliteraturemystical experienceAyad Akhtarspiritual transformationcosmology
What listeners will find here
David Brooks and Shelly Kagan debate whether souls are real—and whether we need them
The episode takes on a foundational question: do human beings have immaterial souls? David Brooks talks with philosopher Shelly Kagan, who argues that souls do not exist while still defending wonder, mystery, and human exceptionalism.
Jonathan Haidt on morality, elites, and why AI could upend education
Jonathan Haidt joins David Brooks for a live conversation on human nature, moral decision-making, elite formation, and AI’s impact on education. The episode ranges from Haidt’s social psychology roots to his stark warning that AI could be a "neutron bomb for education."
Ayad Akhtar on spiritual transformation and learning to see with the heart
Mystical experience is the thread running through David’s conversation with Pulitzer Prize winner Ayad Akhtar about The Radiance. They explore spiritual transformation, altered perception, and the challenge of moving from intellect toward warmth, patience, and grace.
Astrophysics, philosophy, and the question of where humans fit in the universe
Humanity’s place in the cosmos is the focus of this conversation between David Brooks and astrophysicist Priyamvada Natarajan. They connect major shifts in our picture of the universe to changing ideas about ourselves, while also exploring emotion in science and the limits of scientific answers to human problems.
David Brooks and Meghan Sullivan ask how to live a genuinely good life
How should we live our lives? David Brooks and philosopher Meghan Sullivan explore the idea that a good life is not only about doing good in the world, but also about building virtue within yourself.
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