Marc sits down with author Jim Marshall to dig into Septemics: Hierarchies of Human Phenomena—a system of 35 seven-level “scales” Jim says can help people understand behavior and move up, one level at a time. We cover where the idea came from, why he claims it’s grounded in math, how to apply (and not apply) the scales in real life, and a few skeptical pushbacks from Mark on ethics, relationships, and the “scale of sexuality.”

Guest

Jim Marshall — author of Septemics: Hierarchies of Human Phenomena.

• Seven-level scales: Jim argues human behavior across 35 axes follows predictable, seven-step gradients.
• Insight test: In Jim’s framework, “finding the correct level triggers an insight; if you feel nothing, try again.”
• One step at a time: He cautions against jumping levels—aim for the next rung, not the top.
• Ethics: Don’t announce other people’s levels; encourage self-placement to avoid judgment and pushback.
• Skeptic corner: Marc presses on complexity (relationships), possible misreads, and why some “top” positions (e.g., low/zero libido) are framed as higher.

Links & references

• Septemics: Hierarchies of Human Phenomena — available via major booksellers (search “Septemics”).
• Jim’s site and axioms are referenced in the episode; search “Septemics axioms” for more.

Tried placing yourself on one scale (e.g., Motivation, Equanimity, Relationships)? What “next level up” would look like for you this week? Send a 30–60s voice note and we’ll feature a couple.

Contact

📧 dadsgotanothertattoo@gmail.com

📸/🎥 @dadsgotanothertattoo

Septemics, psychology, self-development, skepticism, ethics, relationships, motivation, midlife.

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