Discussing "On the Ontological Mystery" (1933) about our need for meaning. Marcel asserts that our need for "mystery" is much more primal than the scientific, technical point of view that breaks down problems into component parts for easy analysis. In fact, this more modern-seeming way of looking at the world presupposes and relies on the more originary position. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Get 50% off ready-to-eat meal delivery at FactorMeals.com/pel50 (code pel50). Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/PEL.