Philosopher Meghan Sullivan and space architect Ariel Ekblaw don't usually work at the same altitude ... but put them in a room together, and they'll answer the big questions. Drawing on wisdom from Aristotle to astronauts, they discuss what humans inherently owe each other, what it takes to live a good life and what a rulebook for a better world might look like. (This conversation is part of “TED Intersections,” a series featuring thought-provoking conversations between experts navigating the ideas shaping our world.)

How to live a good life — on Earth and in space

Pursuing bold goals like sending people to the moon can ignite solutions that benefit life on Earth. The conversation contrasts settling for the 'least common denominator' with actively striving toward a higher shared purpose. Astronauts often cry when viewing Earth from space, a moving reminder of human connection. Building systems that nurture virtue, attention, and empathy is key to thriving both on this planet and beyond.

Big Ambitions On Earth And In Space Advance The Common Good

Big, ambitious goals like traveling to the moon or building space stations often drive humanity to solve problems that benefit life on Earth. Drawing from philosophy and the lessons of astronauts, the conversation explores how striving for a common good calls us to imagine better futures, not just settle for compromise. Even seasoned astronauts have been moved to tears by the overview effect, seeing Earth from space and realizing our shared fate. Ultimately, the pursuit of space is a lens for rethinking how we treat each other and build societies, both on this planet and beyond.

Aiming for the Stars Reveals How to Live Well Together

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Ariel Ekblaw and Meghan Sullivan: How to live a good life — on Earth and in space