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Philosopher's Zone

Is there purpose in the cosmos?

Oct 10, 2024
Philip Goff, a professor of philosophy at the University of Durham and author of 'Why? The Purpose of the Universe,' delves into provocative ideas about consciousness and cosmic purpose. He challenges secular materialism by suggesting that consciousness is fundamental to reality, even in the tiniest particles. Goff navigates the complexities of consciousness and its implications for evolution, raising questions about agency in nature. He explores the fine-tuning of the universe and its potential significance for human meaning, calling for a re-evaluation of our place within the cosmos.
36:54

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores the hard problem of consciousness, highlighting challenges in linking subjective experience to neural activity amidst scientific advancements.
  • It presents panpsychism as a framework suggesting consciousness is fundamental to the universe, proposing a cosmic purpose that enhances human agency and meaning.

Deep dives

Understanding Consciousness

The podcast delves into the complexities of consciousness, distinguishing between what is termed the 'easy problem' and the 'hard problem.' The easy problem involves explaining cognitive functions in relation to physical processes, which has seen significant scientific progress. In contrast, the hard problem addresses the enigma of how subjective experiences arise from neural activity, a puzzle that remains largely unsolved despite advancements in neuroscience. The discussion emphasizes that the traditional scientific approach often neglects the qualitative aspects of consciousness, presenting a philosophical challenge to reconcile internal experiences with observable scientific data.

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