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Philosophy Bites

David Edmonds on the Life and Philosophy of Derek Parfit

Apr 10, 2024
David Edmonds discusses the life and philosophy of Derek Parfit, focusing on his views on personal identity, selflessness, the pressures behind 'Reasons and Persons', and the intersection of Parfit's photography and philosophy.
20:32

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Derek Parfit emphasized psychological connectedness over consistent self in personal identity.
  • Parfit's philosophy prioritized altruism and impartiality, aiming for the best outcomes for all.

Deep dives

Derek Parfit's Unique Life at All Souls College in Oxford

Derek Parfit led a seemingly dull life spent mostly at All Souls College, Oxford. Despite this, he was known for his eccentricities, growing increasingly peculiar over time. His initial writings on personal identity sparked his international reputation, where he challenged the notion of a consistent self and emphasized psychological connectedness.

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