In Memoriam: Dan Dennett on Mortality, Life, and Existence

[@kpl775]

The world is lesser without Hitchens and Dennet

[@huemanzu]

But more if we keep them alive

[@brycemannn4847]

I’m a Christian who’s spent many hours listening to dennets thoughts. The man was a intellectual titan. So jolly and positive too. You truly will be missed sir. Even by all of us

[@kpl775]

@brycemannn4847 The world needs more religious people like you. People need to hear and understand other people's world views instead of shutting everyone who doesn't agree with them out. Respect!

[@Garmonbozia-nc7mm]

With the world being as it is, we need the 4 horsemen now more than ever. We need them to fight the proliferation of ignorance invading our shores. This is a terrible blow.

[@fireside9503]

Not really.

[@captain_cgc2413]

Dan will live on in the minds of millions.

[@sanjosemike3137]

Live on in the minds of millions? For how long? Beethoven will be recognized for much longer. But even Beethoven will cease to exist in a Universe that eventually only allows for only quarks. You DO understand your life is meaningless don't you? Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@captain_cgc2413]

@@sanjosemike3137 my life may be meaningless to you. It’s meaningful to me, my wife my children, my siblings, extended family and friends. In 100 years, nobody will remember me, but I would have lived. I have had an opportunity to become self aware. To have learnt from many people, including Dan. His calm and composed demeanor and soft spoken voice will resonate with millions, one day he will become forgotten. But his life was meaningful as it touched mine and many other lives. How you perceive your existence is up to you. Take care.

[@sanjosemike3137]

@@captain_cgc2413 Thanks for a reasonable and caring reply. You are probably "too nice" to be an atheist. Probably an "agnostic." But you don't have to justify your system to me. It is up to you. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@andrewsmith3257]

I need to read Consciousness Explained. RIP

[@lanceash]

@@sanjosemike3137 Are you OK? Meds not working any more? Does it really bother you that other people are atheists? It doesn't bother me if you're a theist as long as you don't demand that government enact laws that reflect your stone age nonsense.

[@StrangePilgrim1]

Thank you for this lovely tribute to Dan Dennett. R.I.P., Dan.

[@brp5497]

@@StrangePilgrim1 R.i.p means some permanent self. An idea especially of Christianity.

[@StrangePilgrim1]

@@brp5497 It's just a saying. Chill. I'm as atheist as they come.

[@brp5497]

@@StrangePilgrim1 Buddhism is a non theist focus based on the four Noble truths. Do you think the focus is non belief in God's? You are missing my point of different ideas other than a permanent lasting self. I.e. rest in peace. It has nothing to do with atheists. It has to do with a different religion's ideas other than Christianity.

[@martinkenah]

He was an athiest, so he can't rest in peace if there's no afterlife.

[@martinkenah]

​@@StrangePilgrim1 Sorry, can't have it both ways.

[@terrymckenzie8786]

The four horsemen was the greatest vid I have seen. Literally changed my life. We were so lucky to have lived.

[@cnccmiclarkecocreativemedi7284]

What is it about?

[@nicholasmassey6941]

@@cnccmiclarkecocreativemedi7284 i think he is referring to a video Dan, Richard, Sam and Christopher made. Over 10 years ago now i imagine.

[@nicholasmassey6941]

I remember watching that, i was sitting having stuffed myself with pizza, followed by a whole tub of ben n jerry, it brings back fond memories.

[@terrymckenzie8786]

@@cnccmiclarkecocreativemedi7284 It was mostly a video with 4 atheists and how they try talking reason with religious people and how they get attacked by them. No matter how honest and respectful they are. It’s still on utube and you can check it out. Yes with Dan,…Richard Dawkins,Sam Harris and Hitcherson . They relate their personal experiences. I thought it would revolutionize the world, ….then trump and his Evangelicals came along.

[@mugsofmirth8101]

@@terrymckenzie8786 Dawkins has openly promulgated that defenses of atheism should take the form of mockery and verbal altercation against anyone skeptical enough to question atheist rhetoric, and it shows in the way those defending atheism behave toward those who question their assertions.

[@helencahn7293]

I am grateful that Dan Dennett lived. I don't need anyone to receive that gratefulness. He gave us such insight and I find comfort in it.

[@peterjosephdrums]

So sorry for your loss, dear Richard. What a wonderful tribute to a great man. I was struck by how scientific his approach to philosophy was, and I know he will be missed dearly.

[@RandallHeath1121]

I find Richard's voice so soothing and gentle. Very comforting. So seldom does he lose his cool or shift from his quiet, dignified, self-assured tenor. Perfect tone for eulogizing the mighty Dennett. Makes me feel a bit better... Just found out a personal friend passed yesterday to pile on the loss of Dennett. Happy to listen to these two greats at tuis moment.

[@ahmadjamalmughal47]

❤

[@Notalloldpeople]

Yet so many want to label Dawkins as ‘strident’. Anything but that in my view.

[@Innesb]

@@NotalloldpeopleTheir definition of ‘strident’ is, “Frequently disagrees with my views in a logical and consistent manner”.

[@skonther0ck]

The billions to one probability that I exist at all is a marvel that’s lasted my lifetime. It brings such a sense of gratitude to all those before me and to the natural world of wonders of which I’m a part.

[@larskragh-hvidberg1593]

@@Notalloldpeople To be fair, he has changed over the years.

[@I.Reckon]

Enjoy your life because when it's over, all you will leave is molecules, monuments, and memories. The molecules that make up your body and energy will eventually disperse back into the environment. Your monuments could include a business empire, creative work or maybe a pyramid, but probably just a headstone. Memories of you will live on in the minds of people who new and loved you. Eventually your molecules, monuments, memories and even your species will fade into the abyss of time.

[@mihaelanegut6588]

His existence has made the world better. This should be the purpose of each human being passing through the life. Honours to you, Daniel Dennett!

[@sanjosemike3137]

How is the world better? There is no world. Your existence and theirs is a cosmic accident. Quit believing in fairy tales. It's time you give up on "magic." There is no such thing. You are an atheist. Act like one. Quit the BS. There is no "flying spaghetti monster in the sky." Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@tomobrien5795]

His life was SOOOOO amazing that you couldn’t even get his name right 😳😩🥴. Listening to DD and RD was like listening to 2 blind men discussing the ‘fact’ that spectacular sunsets don’t exist.

[@mihaelanegut6588]

@@tomobrien5795 thx for your spelling observation! Didn't noticed that my phone wrote it It's own way. As for the talk of RD & DD, perhaps you should listen to them a bit more carefully? 🌅

[@I.Reckon]

@@tomobrien5795 Why are religious people so bitter and angry. Try a new philosophy, "be kind".

[@tomobrien5795]

@@I.Reckon Are you being ‘kind’ by judging me as being ‘bitter and angry’?? The fact is that DD was deceived by his own intellectual pride into not only believing, but in widely promulgating Atheism, a worldview that is going to send millions to Hell. Is it ‘unkind’ to warn people about that? Twice in the Psalms ‘the fool’ is described only in terms of his assertion that ‘There is No God’. Well, to KNOW tha5 there is no God (the basic tenet of Atheism), this individual would need to be omniscient (know everything) and omnipresent (be everywhere), otherwise how could he assert with certainty that God doesn’t exist? To my mind, to believe that ia highly complex, information-based universe came about ex nihilo is just as stupid as stupid can be. Shalom 😇👍

[@keithrelyea7997]

Thank you, I'm 82 and aware of life's passing in ways not as clear before. It's easy to be disappointed with the pain and injustice that humans bring with them. Was and ever shall be. Your conversation helped open a window to the broader view that being here is such an impossibility that do what must be done to recgonise the gift and be in awe.

[@annettewatson3706]

Trust in Christ, or it's all for nothing!!

[@steinhogger]

"Trust in christ, or its all for nothing" is just a stupid and indeed a condescending statement. I'll take the risk of thinking for myself, rather then jumping on the ideas of a religion. And should I die and find out that i stand before some pearly gate, then I trust that whatever diety is there, would have more respect for someone who followed his/hers own convictions, then someone who simply jumped onboard for either fear of punishment or for a divine reward. Take care #keithrelyea7997, and know I had more less the same experience 🥰

[@RandallHeath1121]

@@annettewatson3706 Thor or bust, baby! Bring the hammer! 🔨

[@sanjosemike3137]

Keith, I have no idea what you are saying. It makes no sense. It is just word salad. Say what you believe clearly or nothing. I don't mean to be unkind. But word salad from atheists means nothing to me. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@bobgreenfield9158]

You can sponsor park benches in your honor with a bit of philosophy.

[@MitchellDormont]

Having survived a "massive" heart attack 2 years ago, and waking to see the trees outside the hospital window the next day, and continuing to see the trees, birds, and flowers, along with those I love, andmy friends, I certainly feel gratitude to the universe. I honor Dan's having been here, and Richard, your continuing to do so.

[@society_for_praising_appli6261]

Rest in Peace Dan! Thanks for the tribute Richard. Love the 'attitude of gratitude' dude.

[@vanneyaathithan9029]

When death is the Annihilation and nothing remains, there is no peace to enjoy.

[@t9j6c6j51]

I don’t often say it, but thank goodness for KZbin.

[@avicena2000]

First, the Hitch. Now Dan Dennet. The world is a better place because of them. Thank you, Professor Dawkins for sharing this and for your generosity through your writings and your work. I look forward to the anthology “Hymns To The Universe”

[@iluvatarchem]

Yes clearly. The world is much better indeed...

[@Garmonbozia-nc7mm]

And a second of our four beloved horsemen has fallen. We have lost another great force for progress, logic, and humanity as a whole. Thank you internet for making his wisdom eternal.

[@wvhollargirl7549]

Thank you for sharing those thoughts. I miss Hitchens, and now Dennet.

[@sanjosemike3137]

@@wvhollargirl7549 Why do you miss them? Your life is meaningless isn't it? Please explain this to me. Oh yeah, you create your own "meaning." That makes me laugh. The electrical activities in your brain are meaningless and exist in no other place. Quit the BS. You are an atheist. Live up to your beliefs. Quit making fairy tales. There is no magic. it's time you recognized reality for what it is. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@shill700]

there is no eternity

[@sanjosemike3137]

@@shill700 There is such a thing as "conservation of quantum information" in the Universe. So at least in terms of physics, you appear to be incorrect. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@captain_cgc2413]

Thank you Richard. You are a great man.

[@panty_sniffer69]

*were

[@larskragh-hvidberg1593]

@@panty_sniffer69 RD is not dead.

[@panty_sniffer69]

@@larskragh-hvidberg1593 fuck I thought he's talking about dd

[@captain_cgc2413]

@@larskragh-hvidberg1593 Did I say he was? I’m thanking RD for a great tribute to Dan.

[@Alwaysdoubt100]

Two great minds. RIP Mr. Dennet

[@markusw.2690]

Sadly he doesn't rest in "peace", but he is burning in hell.

[@jameswright...]

​@@markusw.2690 Nope🤣 Not real my fellow ape!

[@oWiKeDx]

@@markusw.2690😂 your delusional

[@markusw.2690]

@@oWiKeDx Which idol do you have in your avatar?

[@Alwaysdoubt100]

@@markusw.2690 kkkkk hell is like Alice in Wonderlands, the same shelf where there are gods, Angels, and talking snakes.

[@elena__sh]

Such a loss. Daniel Dennett truly was a great philosopher. The legacy of ideas he has left will be appreciated even more with years.

[@vanneyaathithan9029]

"The World created itself"- you call it a brilliant idea. Such thing is "Logically and metaphysically impossible" - Reasoning is experiencing slow death or already dead!

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

In a world that seems increasingly full of people who dwell in self-pity and always seeking 'happiness' through excessive accumulative of materials. this is an absolute delight. Two gentlemen who are not just great intellectuals but also full of appreciation stemming from their intelligence, empathy and sincere kindness. This was such a beautiful video post to have discovered. Beauty, love and empathy exist in sadness, loss and grief, just as much as joy, discovery and friendship. All emotions define us and have their place in every life. I hope millions can learn from this approach and attitude to our lives and those of others.

[@aewfawef963]

his death hit me way more than I'm used to when it comes to people with whom I'm in a "parasocial" relationship. the image that comes to mind is that of an incredibly bright light having faded away. one of the best philosophers of mind that have ever lived. his work will live on.

[@danielboyd4079]

Well said. I found a video of him giving a lecture in early 2023 where he was talking about the problems he was working on. So, yes his work will live on, but it’s desperately sad that we don’t get to read the next Dennett book. I’m glad he got his memoir done-I’ve got it on my shelf. Haven’t read it just yet, but will soon. But to think he was working on a successor to ‘From Bacteria to Bach and Back’ and we’ll never get to see it is so sad. Just feels like we lost a dear friend. On a happier note, I am really excited for Richard Dawkins’s forthcoming book. He has been doing memoirs and children’s books in recent years and I’d kind of assumed he wouldn’t be doing any more serious science books in the vein of ‘The Selfish Gene,’ or ‘Ancestors Tale’. But it sounds like ‘Genetic Book of the Dead’ is in that lineage. Really excited to read it!

[@alifislam4582]

Atheism helped me control my senses, Some times disbelieving can be a strong antidote against the balance between insanity and balancing my thoughts and ideas. It made me realize that it's not that I have a soul but I am that being no mere less important than my soul. Now I don't believe in my soul but my own being alive and well. I still believe and also pray in meditation, and it has helped me in many ways. I am grateful that we have the existence of atheism. Thank you!💚

[@Chardonbois]

A wonderful tribute Richard. Look after yourself. There is still much to be done!

[@jamesharding17]

Daniel Dennett was towering giant of intellect. If only there were more like him. But indeed that's what makes him so special. He has left his work and a legecy for humanity. For that we should all be very grateful.

[@judebogart]

RIP Daniel. Thank you for your knowledge.

[@martinkenah]

Unfortunately he was an athiest, so he can't "Rest in Peace". This implies there is an afterlife.

[@GMLSX]

Today is my birthday (1979-04-25). And that is NOT a bitter sweet irony consindering that Sir Dawkins once wrote “We are going to die, and that makes us the lucky ones. Most people are never going to die because they are never going to be born. The potential people who could have been here in my place but who will in fact never see the light of day outnumber the sand grains of Arabia. Certainly those unborn ghosts include greater poets than Keats, scientists greater than Newton. We know this because the set of possible people allowed by our DNA so massively exceeds the set of actual people. In the teeth of these stupefying odds it is you and I, in our ordinariness, that are here.We privileged few, who won the lottery of birth against all odds, how dare we whine at our inevitable return to that prior state from which the vast majority have never stirred?” So Sir Dennett was also among the lucky ones. And he did great. Thank you.

[@diversityofideasnotidentit5213]

the unborn are never considered people or persons by atheists.

[@haraldtheyounger5504]

What nonsense, "Most people are never going to die because they are never going to be born". Who cares about that which is not and cannot be. No wonder religions begin.

[@richardsilver98]

What you say is indeed the take-away message from this excellent, most genuine, short discussion between these two great thinkers. A quick search suggests that the book contemplated by them at the end, perhaps 'Hymns of the Universe', didn't materialise. Anyway, happy birthday for yesterday. You had the good fortune to be born 1 month and two days before me. Stay well.

[@peterrichards931]

Great sentiments, but simply not true. If we properly follow the logic relating to our existence, we have to take it for granted that we exist, and the totality of events that transpired to produce our existence to begin with, also implicitly-obviated 'others' from existing altogether. Even further, science clearly says that 'all of existence' actually occurs ONLY inside our own brain which itself functions according to the laws of physics; that's actually where all of the 'action in the universe' is...just physical matter which is on the move. The entire universe is actually just inside of our individual, little brain, and nowhere else whatsoever at all. Just one more thing that scientists inevitably evade with their thinking...a hypocrisy they engage in all of the time.

[@BenjaminGoose]

Sir Dawkins?

[@cosmo287]

He died on April 19th, 2024. I was scrolling through youtube that day & saw a video from Aron Ra (a science communicator) saying that Daniel Dennett just died & that's how I found out. RIP Daniel Dennett❤️

[@Subfightr]

That's exactly how I found out as well. Hell of a guy he was.

[@Kangrej98]

I first saw it on Pangburn and then I saw Arons video pop up

[@paulbrocklehurst2346]

Yep me too. Such a shame he's gone.

[@Innesb]

@gofai274I’m sorry to hear that you are in constant pain. I hope you are able to find peace.

[@jonstone9741]

What an odd coincidence that Dan Dennett died on April 19th, the same date as the Oklahoma City bombing and the fiery end of the Waco siege.

[@joohara1985]

Such a joy to hear you and Daniel discuss the privilege of life and being in such awe of life and the capacity to love! Thank you Richard! Love in the universe to Daniel Dennett 💕

[@petersharp7644]

God bless you in your loss, Richard.

[@martinkenah]

He doesn't believe in a god😢

[@biruteverbickaite8892]

@@martinkenah never mind, everyone can wish goods in their way :)

[@OkyeameKwameBRA]

Such a beautiful conversation. No strive , no assumptions, just discussion of what is . Thanks for sharing

[@silas1414]

When I was suddenly bedridden in my early twenties, debilitated with severe pain and a mysterious illness that had no explanation or even prognosis, the person looking after me would place a laptop beside my bed each night and I would watch the conversation between Richard and Dan, again, and again, and again. The cosmic perspectives, the gratitude, and and the wonder expressed were a great consolation for me.

[@sanjosemike3137]

I don't mean to be unkind. But your illness was just a cosmic accident. So is your existence. Your thoughts were meaningless too. You are no more important than an earthworm, don't you understand that? Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@djimiwreybigsby5263]

forgive me for asking, but i'm compelled to ask what happened with the illness ?

[@silas1414]

​@@djimiwreybigsby5263 Well, I was moved between hospitals and in-patient care facilities for several months and continued to deteriorate until a cause was eventually identified, a severe case of overlapping auto immune conditions that fall under the umbrella classification of Seronegative Spondyloarthropathy. I moved to out-patient care and was put onto many medications, more than twenty-plus medications a day in fact, some for the auto immune conditions, some to treat off-shoot conditions that began to emerge, and some to treat the side effects of the medications. But still being so debilitated, it was impossible to keep what I had built up at that point in my twenties and those things collapsed, including my business and finances, which were wiped out. So I had to say farewell to the city and with my maxed out credit cards, mobility aids and medications, moved to a rural area to live with family, where using pieces of furniture and some wooden boards, they cobbled together a makeshift hobbit hole in the corner of their lounge room in which I was placed, where their kids and a tuxedo cat would visit me, a nice perk of the new dwelling. I turned whatever energy and attention I could gather to studying these medical conditions. There were many hopeful paths that failed but after tying a lot of medical therapies and many years of testing alternative approaches, especially nutritional interventions and diet restrictions, always taking a scientific approach, progress began to be made. I began to taper off some of the medications and the symptoms started to recede, and I was able to change from a walking frame to crutches, then to a single cane, and now about a decade later, am living and functioning independently again without any mobility aids with about 70-80% improvement, to the degree that to a person on the street I would appear completely normal. Occasionally, on rare days when inflammation is low, I’m even able to achieve a small amount of dancing - something I had done almost every day since I was a child until the illness, after which it become utterly implausible. Compared to my worst days, in bed, when no amount of will could move my leg at all, it's now a meaningful snapshot of past and present progress. For me, a cosmic perspective and my related beliefs have been profoundly integral, positively affecting how I contextualise my illness, aiding me almost like a kind of triangulating, guiding force, without which I believe this derailment of my life, while extremely difficult, would’ve been much harder. The scale of appreciation for existence that can be experienced through science and philosophy, and the affect it can have on ones life, is profound. 🌟

[@frilansspion]

Very nice touch to remember him with this conversation about life and gratefulness and meaning. RIP Dan…we didnt know each other but Im happy to have known _you_ a little bit…thanks for all the thoughts ❤️ Both of you

[@DuggyDugunder]

Thank you, Professor Dawkins! I love Dan Dennet so much that even after I've absorbed all the information I can from all that's out there on KZbin, I still plug one of his lectures up at bed time just to fall asleep to his soothing voice.

[@Californiansurfer]

I been reading Daniel Dennett since 1989 when I entered Jr College. I had to take a philosophy class and my Christian faith was challenged. I still remember , I hated the guy, but I read some of his books. 1984. Elbow Room The intentional stance, Darwin evolution Intution pumps , and so many others competing his belief in free will. Wow, I read his new book I’ve Been thinking , he did so much. What a teacher. I also read. Determine by Robert Saposky He also made me think, but I referred back to the Elbow room 1984. Great book. Frank. Downey California 😅

[@bernstock]

Fantastic conversation, so profound. As my mother leaves this world, I have watched this over & over. Many thanks to you both for the inspiring words.

[@conniestevens3387]

Sad to think we have lost 2 of our Four Horsemen. I am thankful that we still have Dawkins & Harris. These men have changed many peoples lives. ... RIP Dan & Christopher. ... May Richard & Sam continue to change lives & be with us for many more years.

[@montymontakheb3870]

You and Dan are the greatest and I thank you for your contributions to humanity and culture.

[@thebrook5857]

Better late than never I’m 77 years old now But when I was 17 I was always looking for people like these two gentleman Along with Hitchens , Sam Harris,and Stephen Frye THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE

[@2kt2000]

Dennet said something that when remembered irks me to no end. That we ONLY SEE about a quarter sized coin of info EVER when viewing the world. Obviously I could observe immediately that he was correct. I could not "un-know" this knowledge, that I so wish I could, Ignorance was truly bliss for 53 yrs. His knowledge is what attracted me to this incredibly "matter of FACT" intelligence. Once I learned of the quarter sized focused field of view he relayed... every time I came across him I'd move on immediately because I was REMINDED how little I view and would look around irked that I was reminded that my field of view was filled with noisy info....except for the quarter coin area that was focused, as I am reminded at this moment lol. I will never forget Dennet! 😇(yes...thats an angel emoji for Dennet, we didn't always agree) RIP☝I shall catch up on the year or so I missed.

[@ashrafjehangirqazi1497]

So many billions are denied an opportunity to realize, enjoy and celebrate the blessings of self-conscious existence - and those like these two intellectual giants have a duty to bring as far as possible those denied this exalting experience into the joy of experiencing it. This requires peace and development, science and the humanities, and an all embracing love that diminishes evil. ose

[@666sssivan]

RIP Dan Dennett, great thinker. Thank you Richard Dawkins for sharing this.

[@rolfsimonsson2295]

Indeed a great man in all respects. We will miss him in a positive way and be grateful for having him in our lives.

[@sanjosemike3137]

Why do you miss him? Did he pay your bills for you? How is he "positive." As an atheist you know the Bible is mythology and nonsense. Your existence is meaningless. So was his. I get sick and tired of shibboleths from atheists. Quit believing in magic. There is no such thing. Magical thinking is only for religious people. Surely you have grown out if childhood and magic. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@Enjoyinformation-hi9uo]

Fantastic video. I'm sending my thanks to both of you. Hope your here in the next many decades 😊

[@infinity-r8f]

It is an immense honour to be living in the same age of these legends. Mr. Dan Dennett's death is a great lose for humanity. He will live in our memories, till the end.

[@piquadrattourist2743]

[The mind is the effect, not the cause.]-(Dan Dennett) May the earth rest lightly on you

[@SteveDavis-p5b]

The one thing we do have now is video that will be shown to generations to come. In due time maybe it could be a better place to live BUT for now we have a lot to CLEAN UP MAY THE FOUR HORSEMEN LIVE FOREVER ON OUR SO-CALLED SCREENS

[@CosmicMage]

4 horsemen down to 2. But the only thing they ever spelled the apocalypse for was ignorance and savagery. Thank you Dan. You will be missed.

[@cassieoz1702]

On my last day (not long now) I can say I have loved and been loved by, wonderful people. Nothing I've done, nowhere I've been, nothing I've owned, nothing can compare with that. It is my role to make the best life I can while I'm here, then move on and leave room and resources for those that come after me. I am not afraid of being dead, I just hope not to suffer too much in the process of getting there.

[@GodmyX]

Thank you Richard. May you rest in peace, Dan!

[@martinkenah]

Sorry, you can't say "rest in peace" if you're an athiest with no afterlife.

[@rzquasar]

Thank you for this wonderful homage to the memories of the great Dan Dunnett.

[@OnlyScienceRules]

What a good chat between two great brains. Didn’t know Dan died. This is such a loss but let’s celebrate his work and legacy. Read his books and listen to his lectures, debates and interviews! Take notes, review them, contemplate on them, learn more, always enquire, doubt and question everything! Share with others!! Embrace science not partially but fully! Science is the light ☀️🖖🏼📚🧬✨ And make the best realistically possible effort to contribute to civilisation!

[@isidor72]

Richard, I hope that you stay healthy and accompany us for a long time to come! ❤

[@sanjosemike3137]

Isador, don't you realize that the only regular thing in the Universe is suffering and pain? There is no evidence for God or gods. Your existence is sheer accident. It is time to live up to your beliefs. You are an accident. Quit the BS. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@spectrepar2458]

​@sanjosemike3137 what do you mean by live up to their beliefs?

[@sanjosemike3137]

@@spectrepar2458 Atheists are somewhat different from agnostics. Atheists are ABSOLUTE that there is no scientific basis for God. Actually, the existence of atheists is important. Atheists help believers point to the fact that free will exists. Atheists sometimes try to “celebrate” and commemorate a dead atheist by suggesting that “their life had meaning.” But atheists can’t have it both ways. “Life is purely an accident and has no meaning or purpose.” If that’s what you believe, don’t “pretend” your dead atheists have meaning. Live up to what you believe. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@barbaragemin5117]

It was wonderful to watch this conversation again, and be reminded of what a great, intelligent, gentle man he was. Richard always knows just how to express the absolute wonder of life and the universe with his soft, eloquent and comforting voice.

[@bertrandrussell894]

He was a lovely man and a deep thinker. We were lucky to have him.

[@benfoxcroft2252]

I'm saddened deeply that I may now at best only ever see two of the four horseman live. 😥

[@chemquests]

I feel fortunate that I got to meet Dennett at a book signing & watched him deliver a lecture later that day. Let’s vow to catch the other 2 if the opportunity arises.

[@yippeeyo]

Yup Richard is doing a tour of the US/UK later this year. I immediately booked a ticket after watching this video

[@chemquests]

@@yippeeyo thanks for letting me know. I’ll have to drive 6 hours to catch the closest one in DC

[@sanjosemike3137]

Ben, he has gone to nothingness. It is time for you to give up magic. You are no longer a child. You KNOW the Universe is meaningless. You know you will go to nothing and after all you know are dead, so will be your memory. Quit the BS. As an atheist it is time for you to give up magic. Sanjosemike (no longer in CCA)

[@j-md-b6e]

Thank you Dan Dennett, so much.

[@M_Ling]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us

[@davidpersad7000]

So much heart in your words and quotes Mr Dawkins.Thank you.Like Mr Dennett you are cherished.

[@mikekatz4620]

Many a restless night have been calmed by Richard's comforting logic and absolute reason. He helps me find peace.

[@sanjosemike3137]

Quit the word salad. "Peace." I have no idea what that means. You are an atheist. it is time to give up on magic. You are no longer a child. Your existence is meaningless. So was his. I have no idea what "peace" you are talking about is. it is time to give up magic. You are no longer a child. Only Bible believers believe in magic. Quit the BS. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@mr.cogito7167]

Such a great loss to humanity. His message remains immortal. More and more people will follow his footsteps, I am positive about that. Thank you Mr. Dennett. We'll miss you.

[@adelabouali1693]

You're always great Sir Richard

[@susilgunaratne4267]

Great! Dan's works inspired me equally as was of yours. His legacy will be with us for ever in our efforts to understand the reality of our lives & the universe.

[@MarkWhitman-q3l]

Thank you for this. Nothing before our consciousness to know and nothing afterwards. Why be afraid of the past or worry about the unknown future? Live in the NOW

[@raducoman6423]

Although I'm not an atheist (generally agnostic but occasionally swaying towards certain forms of theism), there is no denying what an intellectual powerhouse Daniel Dennett was. I have a tremendous level of respect for his work and his contributions to the field of psychology. Some of the most exciting moments in my psychology bachelor's degree revolved around Dennett's theories. His work is incredibly thought-provoking, coming from an individual who led a battle in freeing the world of ignorance. Regardless of whether he managed to persuade me into embracing atheism, I will always be a major fan of his work and am incredibly saddened by this loss.

[@tonygarrett7214]

What a thoroughly decent and respectful comment. I hope you find solace in whatever beliefs you finally embrace.

[@raducoman6423]

@@tonygarrett7214 Thank you! I greatly appreciate the kind words and wish you the best in all future endeavors.

[@Rico-Suave_]

I loved Dr. Daniel Dennett, very sad to hear about his passing, I would have loved to meet him, he was my absolute favorite, an intellectual giant, a legend, true sage, heard he was also very kind gentle person, huge loss to civilization, I will watch tons of his lectures in the next few weeks in his memory, I made a playlist of his lectures and interviews for myself to work through, listening to Dr Dennett lectures would be my idea of Heaven 17:41

[@louisehaley5105]

I really feel for Professor Dawkins, the loss of his dearest friend and fellow Horseman. I dread the day we lose him also, it’s too much to bear !😢😢😢

[@heleen313]

That was beautiful. I’m sorry for your and everybody’s loss. RIP Mr Dennet 🙏🏻🌹💫

[@martinkenah]

He was an atheist so unfortunately you cannot rest in peace if you become nothing.

[@heleen313]

@@martinkenah ha ha good one! 😂 However a few things… being an atheist probably (?!) does not have any effect on the actual reality after death. If there is an afterlife we will be in it, regardless of our beliefs during life. If ones belief does determine the actuality of ones situation after death, atheists may actually be the only ones resting in peace. All others are probably busy in heaven, hell or back on earth, doing whatever 😂 The wish for someone to rest in peace has more to do with the beliefs of the wisher than the person who died. Although I must admit that it doesn’t say much about mine and it was just a way of expressing respect to Mr Dennet and I’m agnostic to whether it has any effect on him, but I guess it won’t hurt him and it gives a feeling of connection to the people who cared for him 😊 But it was a good one nonetheless 😄

[@vinaydayananda2696]

Dan has been a discovery for me through you Richard. Thank you to him for enlightening humanity and to you roo.

[@arcanuslosanara2823]

When we are dead, we are dead, and eternal silence prevails.

[@BooksForever]

My best tribute to Dan (and previously for Hitch) is the space on my shelves for several of his books that I’d bought in his lifetime and have enjoyed reading - and likely not for the last time.

[@danielboyd4079]

Yep. I have a pretty solid Dennett shelf. Not the complete set…I’m missing a couple. But I’ll get there.

[@tombranighan4569]

Sorry for your loss, Richard. Thank you, Dan 🙏🏼

[@RomelRivas-m5w]

It is in deed a rather sad statement to say that such a great beacon of wisdom . . . .(and I am sure of many more noble qualities) for all humanity expelled his last breath and left us (the world) one less reason for human beings to be justified of their existence. It is also so sad that sooo many natural creatures of the human race walk on this planet in darkness . . even on bright and beautiful days. The World will owe you Mr. Dennett a great deal of gratitude for the fruits of your brain which will shine knowledge, understanding, and wisdom in relation to our given reality, for as long as the planet Earth continues to turn.

[@ejsomo2020]

Thank you Sir, for sharing this video with us. 🙏

[@Sebastiaomf]

Sad, very sad. We have lost Dennet. However, his thoughts will keep illuminating current and future generations for a very long time.

[@anandgehahaas4649]

Brilliant mind and a beautiful human being. I m thankful to be able to listen to him and reading his books. I always will remember Dan and Hitch. Thanks to Richard for the beautiful poetry. 🙏🏻

[@gregczarlinski2811]

Beautifully said. thank you R.Dawkins. He will be missed indeed. We are so lucky we have his books and videos

[@Sköldpadda-77]

Bitter news, indeed. I probably owe my exposure to Dennett (as well as Hitchens and Dawkins) to Verle Muhrer, philosophy teacher at Penn Valley Community College,l Kansas City. I am forever grateful for that, and for the great works Dan Dennett leaves behind. As author Joe Hill wrote: “It’s quite common to enter a library and find yourself in communication with the dead. The best minds of generations long gone crowd every bookshelf. They wait there to be noticed, to be addressed, and to reply in turn. In the library the dead meet the living on collegial terms as a matter of course, every day. “ (Full Throttle, “Late Returns”, p. 204) In this manner, in this the only true life after death, I hope future generations meet in conversation with Daniel Dennett.

[@jonstone9741]

Great quote. People can achieve life after death through the literature and art they created. Dan Dennett is alive in his books and videos. John Lennon is alive in his music and movies. Judy Garland is young and alive when you watch the Wizard of Oz.

[@bernakocasoy]

there he goes and shares my favourite poem...all time favorite... no wonder I worship and follow these guys religously!...

[@RubyNeumann]

This conversation about life and death is the best of the treasure of grief wisdom I have harvested over the years of losing my family. Thank you Richard and Dan!

[@milivanilli1979]

He said gratitude is a wonderful human emotion. I agree and am grateful to know who these amazing men are. Those who don’t, are truly missing out.

[@robotaholic]

I grew up loving Dennett and my favorite paper is what robo mary knows ❤ - Richard Dawkins, we love you, too. We all are getting old and will be forgotten, but you and Dennett will resonate longer for your scientific accomplishments and for shining the scientific light and skeptical attitude on so many things.

[@robinghosh5627]

The 2 Greatest Exponents of Critical thinking, Rational and reasoning in understanding science both by philosophical and Truthful search in the Beauty and Grandeur of our Universe..Thank you Sir Richard and Mr Daniel Dennett...unforgettable Forever...❤❤❤

[@JD_Vasquez]

A void that cannot be filled. RIP Dan Dennett.

[@Knowledgebrief128]

RIP Daniel Dennett. A unique curiosity and intellect has come to an end. Thanks for everything Daniel.

[@mikefixac]

I must say, when I was just a quasi believer, to have an outlet thanking God and giving gratitude was very fulfilling. I’m glad Mr. Dennett was in my life. Reflecting on the process of how we came to be, can be even more fulfilling than giving gratitude to God. I appreciate Richard’s insight.

[@kevinbaltz4564]

Greater the love the greater the heartbreak

[@gzy4407]

What a thoughtful and beautiful tribute to Dan Dennet. Thank you Richard for this and all the work you've done for humanity so far.

[@sanjosemike3137]

Please tell me what he has done for humanity? I guess it is the "poetry" of atheism. Forgive me for not understanding the "poetry of atheism." Does it pay your bills for you? Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@donnadeau7619]

Love your beautiful mind. A world treasure. Thanks Dan for sharing your humility and intelligent.

[@sripadaraomanjunath2945]

The man richly adorned the word "Gratitude" ....You live on forever Dan.

[@sobekneferu4041]

I love this tribute to the great Dan Dennett ❤️

[@kevinh9768]

I just finished "I've been thinking". Such a treasure. Thanks for this video. I will miss Dan Dennett. I am so sad at his passing. His books have been inspirational for me.

[@binasharma7128]

I don’t want to believe Dennett is gone but nobody can takeaway his books consoles me! Knowing the living and dead horsemen is the best thing happened in my life! 💝

[@faithiscrazy]

Hitchen, Richard, Dan & Sam have been heros of mine for many years. Sending my love and immense respect ❤

[@lanceash]

Try as I might I could never understand exactly what he was trying to get at in his lectures. I appreciate the man though.

[@kevinh5349]

That can be said about most philosophers

[@seaglider844]

I was waiting for this.....and it was just as profound as I'd hoped. Thank you Richard for providing it, and thank you Dan, your like does not come along very often. We will miss you.

[@kengilliland727]

Thank you for sharing those special moments with Dan, Peace, and Love and again thank you for the many happy memories with a intellectual giant.

[@invitesbydani]

RIP Dan Dennett. This is the first I heard of it. You were apart of my atheist journey.

[@Jdeals14]

This was horribly depressing. I'm going to pray

[@7788Sambaboy]

"Religions have depended on the relative isolation and ignorance of their flocks, forever and this is all breaking down" Thank you so much Dan, for doin so much to break that down!

[@dsplodge86]

Yet new atheism is unraveling quicker than it started and the Gospel of Jesus is advancing around the world.

[@7788Sambaboy]

@@dsplodge86 "believe" what you want in the face of volumes of data, trends and reality...if it makes you feel better stay wrapped in the mythology.

[@dsplodge86]

@@7788Sambaboy what trends, data and reality oppose those two facts I stated. Because I have plenty to support them.

[@alexcwagner]

I've uploaded a lot of Dan Dennet's wisdom to my necktop. He has augmented my life significantly.

[@patrickburgermeister7940]

I often hear "science cannot explain everything" or "there is so much more out there beyond science". They don't see that science is also beauty, poetry and much more awe-inspiring than any religion.