Dr. De Cruz is a philosophy professor and Danforth Chair of Humanities at Saint Louis University. Helen holds doctorate degrees in philosophy as well as archaeology and art studies. Her research attempts to understand why humans engage in philosophy, religious reflection, mathematics, science, and art. She explores these themes in her new book Wonderstruck: How Wonder and Awe Shape the Way We Think. Helen joins the podcast to explain why activities like art, music, and spirituality are nearly universal among humans, even though they don't seem necessary for survival.

Did the recent solar eclipse inspire awe in you? Discover the inspiring accounts of scientists and amateur astronomers in our article "The Value of a Dark Night Sky: Stargazing, Splendor & Science."

What did you think of this episode? Let us know with a rating and a review!

Join the conversation on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.