Ideas affect our lives in both positive and negative ways. Some of the greatest problems in our lives have their origins in confused thinking. Such thinking makes serious thought about the ultimate issues of life close to impossible. We will look at several confusions that deeply harm people and leave them with without hope. This lecture does not presuppose any previous academic preparation. It is meant to be accessible, practical, and engaging. As always, there will be a significant time for discussion, delicious home-baked snacks, and good company.   Greg Jesson’s long journey from Los Angeles to Iowa took him to Switzerland, where he studied at L’Abri with Francis Schaeffer, to UCLA where he finished his undergraduate degree in philosophy, to USC where he completed an MA in philosophy under Dallas Willard, and finally to the University of Iowa where he received a Ph.D. in philosophy focusing on philosophy of mind, metaphysics, epistemology, phenomenology, and philosophy of religion. He has published books and articles on the nature of thought and knowledge, consciousness, philosophy of mathematics, Francis Schaeffer, the portrayal of ultimate issues in modern film, defending Christianity in the marketplace, and the philosophical and religious thought of Dallas Willard. Over the years he has taught at eight colleges and a seminary, and has lectured widely in America and Europe. Most recently, he was a professor of philosophy and director of the Center for Ethics and Public Life at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Having decided to leave the university, he now spends his time writing, lecturing, restoring an old home, and looking after his dog, Dr. Watson.