We all have things we reach for when life feels heavy, too uncertain, or too quiet. Beneath the surface of every craving, there’s usually something human and honest: a need for connection, for hunger, for rest, for control or a longing to be at ease in one’s own skin.

For this week's Questions That Matter, we’ll be looking at the state of compulsion in 2025— phones, work, self-help, booze, exercise, porn, sugar, outrage, and even a Chiang Mai nomad favorite/obsession, “productivity.”

We will also view the question “Are We All Addicts Now?” as part of a meta-conversation regarding: what we call addiction, what we don’t, and whether (right or wrong) we might now even be addicted to seeing our entire lives through the lens of addiction.

Some additional questions and angles we might take for the discussion:

Does an addiction to perpetual self improvement count as an addiction?

What might we be seeking when we reach for what harms us?

How might a more enlightened society respond to addiction?

Might addiction mainly be compensation for trauma or disconnection?

As usual, the goal of the night isn’t simply to agree, disagree, or learn. It’s also to connect through genuine, lively, interactive discussion and, potentially, to go to some of the unexpected and uncharted places that deep and free conversation can take us.

When we wrap up, around 8 p.m., we hope you’ll mingle, exchange numbers, and head out with some of us for something to eat or drink. As polarized as the world is right now, one of the deepest connections still available to human beings is a shared meal or drink.

Whether you’re in Chiang Mai for a short visit or you’re a longer term expat or resident, we hope you can join us, not only in exploring the deeper questions but in making new connections and friendships through the discussions.

If possible, please support 4seas, by purchasing a beverage or a snack. They are kindly providing the space to us at no charge.

We all look forward to meeting you!