Jim Stone Ph.D.

About

James Tiberius Stone received his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Washington in Seattle where he explored the intersection of Motivational Psychology with Evolutionary Ethics. Jim also has a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science.

Jim’s recent writing and research has been focused on the question of how we human beings can meet our psychological needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness in a modern world that often frustrates our ability to meet these needs, and how we can not only cope, but also thrive, and make the world a better place through creative achievement.

Jim has developed a software tool (the Fractal Planner) that combines a project planning tool with “motivation wizards” that help users troubleshoot their sticking points as they work.

In the past Jim taught Philosophy courses at the University of Washington and Washington State University where he developed courses in Logic, Practical Reasoning, Political Philosophy, Ethical Theory, and Environmental Ethics.

Recent Posts

Invite Others to Play Your Game

When someone comes at us with negative energy, or if we don't like how a conversation is going, we can use Verbal Aikido to turn things around.

Two Reasons Political Arguments Aren't More Productive

When we argue about politics on social media, it's often unproductive. Here are the two main reasons why.

Is Everyone on the Left Unreasonable?

Some people sincerely believe that everyone on the other side of the political aisle is unreasonable. How can we explain this?

Haunted Arguments

Many monsters haunt our political arguments on social media. And whoever fights monsters must take care not to become a monster.

Why You Should Expect To Be Misunderstood

Sarcasm often doesn't work on social media. Here's why.

Why You Should Assume You Will Be Misunderstood

You and I don't communicate as well as we think we do. We don't speak as clearly as we intend. And we don't interpret the things other people say as well we think we do, either.

Should We Stop Trying to Win Arguments on Social Media?

Admit it: You argue to win. And that's a good thing, as long as you keep one important fact in mind.

How Arguments Solve Problems

Arguments have many upsides, as long as people feel secure. Here are two more.

Human Reasoning in Four Steps: Act, Frown, Point, Nod

We can understand human reasoning better if we see it as a dance with four key moves.

The Twitter Compass

Is it useful to engage with unreasonable people on the other side of the political aisle?