#1022 - Sheehan Quirke - How Did The Modern World Get So Ugly?

In this episode of Modern Wisdom, Chris Williamson interviews Sheehan Quirke, also known as The Cultural Tutor, about the concept of beauty and its relation to the modern world. Sheehan argues that "beauty" is overused and misunderstood, suggesting "love" as a more helpful synonym, and that "interesting, charming, and meaningful" are more useful descriptors. They discuss the ugliness and boringness of modern design, contrasting it with historical architecture and design, using drainpipes, water towers, and buildings as examples. Sheehan shares his personal journey from working at McDonald's to becoming a cultural commentator, highlighting the importance of patronage and the need for more "spirulina for the soul" through art and poetry. They explore the role of romance in a hyper-optimized world, touching on the courage to embrace earnestness and the willingness to die for something meaningful.