072 The age of connectivity was supposed to give everyone a voice and spread liberal values around the world, but instead public discourse in the digital town square has been reduced to 280 characters and cynical memes shared with strangers. In contrast to the dumpster fire of social media is the rich tradition of a salon culture that thrived during the age of enlightenment. From the ferment of these social gatherings flowed a new world of reason and possibility, including egalitarian systems of self governance and the inalienable rights that have come to define the West, but are now under threat.

Innate to the experience of salons is the pursuit of meaning, connection and beauty. As more of life is lived online there are fewer spaces in the real world where diverse people and perspectives can engage in healthy and spirited exchange about things that truly matter. In this episode of Awake In Relationship I speak with Justine Kolata, a philosopher, salonnière and author of In Pursuit of the Beautiful Soul about reviving the art of conversation as an antidote to online toxicity and restoring hope in a brighter future through holding space for beauty and heartfelt dialogue.

If you have been loving what you are hearing on AIR please rate, review and subscribe to get the latest content fresh to your device. Sign up for our newsletter at awakeinrelationship.com to learn about upcoming programs and events.

Do you have suggestions for guests or feedback on the show? Send us an email at [email protected]