Are We Letting Movies Put Ideas In Our Heads?

by Thomas Walker-WerthArt & CultureFeb 24, 2025

Think of the last movie you watched. Did you like it? What would you say if someone asked why you did or didn’t like it?

In my experience, most people answer this question by pointing either to visual elements of the film, such as CGI effects and locations, or to the acting and casting. Some talk about the story, but most do so either in emotional terms, saying things like “I just enjoyed it,” or “it made me sad”; or on a superficial level, commenting on whether they could follow the story or that they liked a particular twist or payoff.

These are all important aspects of a movie and are all. . .

On Solid Ground

On Solid Ground is the hub for content from OSI fellows and affiliates, along with announcements about OSI’s programs and events. Here, you’ll find links to our team’s articles, videos, and other materials published across various platforms. And you’ll discover opportunities to support and engage with our global community.

Latest Blog Posts

How to Embrace Mortality For Flourishing

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Oct 1, 2025

What if Christianity's promise of an afterlife is obstructing our motivation to fully live the one life we know we have? And what if living fully requires navigating obstacles like this and confronting our mortality?

Why People Commit Atrocities

In his new video, Craig explains why neither feelings, faith, nor consensus are a means of knowledge—and when people pretend that they are, violence ensues.

The Jane Austen Festival: Reflections on Intensely Valuing Literature

At the Jane Austen Festival, Angel discovered new ways to deeply value literature—and why that matters beyond Austen’s novels. Her reflections include questions every reader can ponder!

I Tried to Escape My Fear of Death

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Sep 29, 2025

In his first-ever video essay, Maddox shares how his fear of death once drained the meaning from his life—and how rational philosophy helped him reframe it. He shows why life matters because it ends.

Sign Up and Stay Informed

Join our community today and get access to exclusive content, updates, and more!