metaphysics
I’m a skeptical empiricist. On my reductionist side, I’m a materialist that thinks quantum physics is very Zen. On my holistic side, I am fascinated by the phenomenon of emergence, and I wonder if the universe is conscious of its own existence.
If you want simpler terms, you can call me an atheist or an agnostic or a rationalist or a freethinker. I base my beliefs on the best available evidence, and I am free to change my mind without notice upon further review.
ethics
1. with love and logic
2. in accordance with the three jewels of the Tao: compassion, moderation, and humility
3. following the golden rule: treat others the way you wish to be treated.
4. using Virian ethics, virtues(reason,empathy,vision), sins(dogmatism,apathy,hypocrisy)
5. keeping in mind the Toltec Four Agreements: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, always do your best.
values
the welfare of people, knowledge, truth, wisdom, and happiness
books that have informed my personal philosophy
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig
The Moral Animal by Richard Wright
Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark by Carl Sagan
Joseph Campbell
Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis
Godel, Escher, and Bach: The Golden Braid
Job by Robert Heinlein
Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Life 101 by Peter McWilliams
Wishcraft by Barbara Sher
Age of Reason by Thomas Paine
roles I occupy
relationships – husband, father, friend, son, brother, uncle, etc.
householder – housekeeper, cook, handyman, gardener, launderer, pet owner
financial manager – career, budget, working towards financial independence.
hacker – work, learn, skilled technical professional
community member – neighborhood, city, county, state, country, planet
self-maintenance – physical (diet, exercise, rest, stress), mental (education and mental exercises), spiritual (writing, volunteer service, meditation), emotional (friendships and connections)
individual – self-development, recreation, play
politics
On a political compass, I’m located a moderate located somewhere between the liberal and libertarian points of the compass. I believe in the republican (lower-case R) form of government, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
Being a good member of the community involves:
vote in all elections
public service
energy conservation
reduce/reuse/recycle
give blood
use alternate energy sources
know your neighbors
get politically active
lead on issues where knowledgeable
take public transit
neighborhood improvement
join PTA
be involved with a spiritual community
don’t be a burden – stay in good health, save for retirement
pay taxes
obey laws
give to charity
be punctual
practice safety