you've got questions, i've got answers:

For answers to commonly asked questions, please click on the questions below. More questions will be added soon. If you have any questions that are not listed here, please contact me.

Why create this website?
I am fascinated with philosophy and existentialism. As an aspiring psychologist, I often read about philosophical concepts and principles. Existentialism is the philosophical study of the human condition. It offers insight into some of the most intriguing questions confronting humans today. Some of the most well-known philosophers of the 20th Century were existentialists.
Why did you terminate your web design business?
I terminated my involvement in the web design industry for personal reasons. I discovered that dealing with clients was far more trouble than I initially imagined. The Spectrum 8 Web Design website did not generate opportunities for making money. I felt that it was becoming a waste of time. If I was going to "waste my time" pushing pixels around, I would make a website about something I really enjoy. Thus, I created what you're currently looking at.
Will you ever design websites for a living again?
The answer to this question is: Maybe, maybe not. But, it depends on several other factors than just "wanting to do it". The business of web design is extremely competitive. It's a bit "too competitive" for me. I can't cope with most other people - and so that means "clients" can often be my worst enemies. I don't like pleasing other people very much. I tend to keep to myself and I like it better this way. I prefer the freedom to create what I want without having other people looking over my shoulder.
This site is too "blue" - why did you choose this color?
I love the color blue. I love all shades and textures of blue. I often "feel blue" and thus, can sometimes go "overboard" with certain colors when I'm creating something. However, I love this layout and do not feel bad for making it as "blue" as it is. I don't apologize for not conforming.I no longer feel the need to please everyone! I know that some people like it - and they are my target audience.
Are you atheist?
Yes, I am an atheist. However - my intentions behind this website do not involve too much discussion about atheism. This is not an "atheist" website. The only reason I include the question is to avoid confusion if any viewers wonder about my religious affiliation. Since many well-known existentialists are atheists, I find it useful to mention the fact that I too am an atheist.
Why are you an atheist?
The answer to this question is simple: I have simply not been convinced that a god (or gods) exist up to this point in time. I used to be a Christian, but became an atheist after years of reading, thinking, researching and debating with Christians and other atheists. I am quite happy as a nonbeliever. And - for the record: nothing terrible happened to me that caused me to become atheist. So far, I've lived a pretty decent life.
Are you gay?
Yes, I am gay. I know you were probably not asking this question in particular, but just in case - I thought I'd clarify things just a little. And - no, being gay did not make me become an atheist. It may have helped, but it was certainly not the main reason I decided to stop believing in God. And, I'm just as "happy" being gay as I am being an atheist, despite what many Christians may think. Religious beliefs (or lack thereof) are very different from sexual orientation.
Where do you live?
I live in San Diego, California. I've lived all over this country...and I've lived overseas as well. When it was time to get out of the Marine Corps, I decided I would stay in California. Plus, San Diego has the finest weather in the nation.
What are your future academic goals?
My future academic goals involve finishing my bachelor's degree in psychology and then going to graduate school to earn a Ph.D. in psychology (OR philosophy). My ultimate goal is to teach as a professor at a large well-known university someday.
Are you a philosopher?
As a lover of wisdom and knowledge, I am a philosopher. However, I am not a philosopher by trade. This answer is complicated because I am torn between getting degrees in psychology AND/OR philosophy. Even if I continue pursuing psychology, I'll be able to call myself a "real philosopher" at some point in time, because the two disciplines are remarkably similar in nature.
Are you an existentialist?
Yes, I am an existentialist.... Unlike many existential thinkers, I am not afraid of using the label to describe my philosophical beliefs. Why should I be afraid of a label? Life is existential - and as such, forces me to contend with the absurdity of it all. When one stops to closely observe "the human world" or "human life", one can find that almost everything is completely devoid of reason, purpose, meaning and value. Faced with this - we become forced to realize that our own existence is completely absurd.
Who's your favorite existentialist philosopher?
Martin Heidegger is currently my favorite philosopher. He's a controversial figure in philosophy, particularly because of his involvement with the Nazi Party during World War II. However - this is NOT why I am interested in him. I find his philosophical ideas quite interesting and his most popular work, "Being And Time", was by far the most difficult book I've read in my entire life. Try reading one paragraph for yourself and you'll know why.