Janet Marugg

Janet Marugg is an avid gardener, reader and writer living in Clarkston, Washington, with her husband, Ed, and boxer dog, Poppy. She is a nature lover, a lifelong learner and a secular humanist. She can be reached at janetmarugg7@gmail.com.

Why resurrection myths appear in every culture — and what Earth Day has to do with it

A reflection on resurrection myths across cultures argues Earth itself is the truest symbol of renewal, especially as Earth Day approaches.

What aliens can teach us about being human

A reflection on aliens, humanism and adaptation argues that encountering other life could expand empathy, challenge ignorance and spark a new renaissance.

We’re soothing ourselves to death: The case for facing our mortality

An exploration of Terror Management Theory, mortality and how confronting death can bring meaning, urgency and freedom to life.

Neuroscience shows how awe survives without prayer

Reflecting on Huxley’s “Island,” a columnist explores mindfulness, awe and transcendence beyond organized religion, embracing unscheduled moments of attention.

Misogyny is the gateway to all bigotry — and loving women is the cure

An opinion essay arguing that misogyny fuels all forms of bigotry and that honoring women is essential to building a more humane, cooperative future.

Separation of Church and Hate’ offers sharp, funny guide to reclaiming the Bible

A reflection on fear, Sharia myths, Christian fundamentalism, and why separating faith from power is essential to freedom and human dignity.

The Adam Smith you don’t know: How we hijacked the father of capitalism

Adam Smith envisioned capitalism as a moral system rooted in fairness, shared prosperity and public good — not monopolies or corporatism.

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