Objectivity and Preference

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The speakers discuss the concept of objectivity and preference, emphasizing that objective rules exist in logic and mathematics while everyone is allowed to have their own preferences. They explore how objectivity can be defined in different domains and how aesthetic judgments can have tacit rules. The chapter also touches on the problematic nature of disagreement in the moral domain and the role of social coordination in morality.

Dave and Tamler try to figure out what we talk about when we talk about objectivity. In past episodes we’ve claimed that logic and science (when it isn't fraudulent) are objective. Tamler has claimed repeatedly that "Louie" is an objectively better TV show than "Jessie." Dave is constantly claiming that Kant is objectively the best philosopher. But to be honest, we say these things without being exactly sure what we’re saying. Today we try to be sure--only to get more confused.

Plus, we get into a big fight over trigger warnings, the Kipnis affair at Northwestern, and other related issues. (The infamous Episode 45 was an ecstasy-fueled love fest in comparison.) However, we have spared our listeners the drama, and have only included a few lowlights. If you listen closely, you can even hear Tamler apologize.

Links

Sexual Paranoia Strikes Academe by Laura Kipnis [chronicle.com]
Laura Kipnis Is Cleared of Wrongdoing in Title IX Complaints [chronicle.com]
Title IX [wikipedia.org]
For Tamler's views on the campus climate and the Kipnis fiasco, check out his comments on this post. [leiterreports.typepad.com]

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