Objective Standard Institute

“Men and women of reason—not alleged ‘prophets’—are the proper role models for human beings.” —Craig Biddle

Have you been deeply moved by any fictional characters—whether from novels, movies, or series? If so, why? Did you learn something important from their journeys? Did their choices and experiences help you to think more clearly about your own? Character arcs can have a profoundly positive impact on our lives—especially if we clearly identify the stages of the arc and what caused the character to change. Angel Walker-Werth will examine a few powerful arcs from great fiction, showing the kinds of observations and questions that can help us get the most from the characters we love.

“Contrary to the tired bromide, ‘if there is no God, anything goes,’ the fact is that if faith is a means of knowledge, anything goes.” —Craig Biddle

Because we’re still adding to the LevelUp 2025 program, we’re extending early-bird savings through March 31! ?? Additional speakers and program information will be posted soon. In the meantime, register now and save 50% ?? https://lnkd.in/g9ijuRZ7

Stoicism is a deeply mixed philosophy, consisting of a few powerful, reality-based elements that can help us to think clearly and love life—scattered amidst a sea of ideas that are detached from reality and thus harmful if embraced. Drawing from various philosophers in this broad and increasingly popular school of thought, Ely Lassman will highlight some of the good elements, discuss some of the bad, and provide guidance on how to tell the difference so you can embrace the former and ditch the latter.

Are you ready to claim your voice in a world that often demands silence? Blending personal stories, timeless principles, and practical tools, this talk will empower you to overcome “self-censorship” and the fear of judgment, manage the discomfort of challenging the status quo, and contribute meaningfully to the conversations that shape our lives. Africa will explore what it takes to stand by your values, express your ideas, and navigate the challenges of being authentically visible in an increasingly polarised world. You’ll be inspired and better equipped to use your voice as a powerful instrument for change.

"One of the main ways we hamper our ability to form healthy self-esteem is by seeking sources of pseudo-self-esteem. Like a scam website, pseudo-self-esteem imitates the real thing but provides none of the actual benefits. Below are a few common ways that people obtain pseudo-self-esteem, each of which demonstrate how it can harm our lives and prevent us from achieving real, evidence-based self-esteem." Read OSI fellow Thomas Walker-Werth 's post ?? https://vist.ly/3mwvpui

Throughout much of history, oppression and misery have prevailed. But there have also been spectacular episodes of creativity, innovation, and growth—from ancient Athens and Rome to Song China and the Dutch Republic. What made these golden ages possible? Why did they eventually come to an end? Johan Norberg will examine these periods of prosperity, identifying the ideas and values that can help us to safeguard freedom, foster flourishing, and build a new golden age.

Is there a connection between the Hogwarts Houses in Harry Potter and ancient Greek philosophy? ?? In her new video, OSI fellow and Harry Potter fan Angelica Walker-Werth argues that three of the four houses are based on classic Greek virtues, whereas the fourth is an inversion of one. Video link in the comments below ??