John Roden, author of Snuff Memories, joins the hosts to discuss the book, theory, Dune, and more. They explore looping feedback, the significance of the word 'yellow,' individuation, transcending human intelligence in science fiction, and the role of saffu juice and waters of life in 'Dune.' They also touch on erotic elements in Snuff Memories, negative theology, and future plans. A fascinating and diverse conversation!
Destabilizing and disrupting traditional notions of the body and identity for a fluid understanding of self.
Exploring the fascination with death and desire, especially in relation to the post-human condition.
Examining the impact of technology on sexuality and the opening of new possibilities for desire and pleasure.
Reflecting on the challenges of representing superintelligence in science fiction and the ethical dilemmas that arise.
Deep dives
Main Idea 1
The podcast episode explores the themes of embodiment, eroticism, and morphological freedom in relation to post-humanism and artificial intelligence. The narrator discusses the importance of destabilizing and disrupting traditional notions of the body and identity, allowing for a fluid and transformative understanding of the self.
Main Idea 2
The podcast delves into the concept of the death drive and its connection to desire and the erotic. It examines the fascination with death and the possibility of experiencing death as an object of desire, especially in relation to the post-human condition.
Main Idea 3
The episode discusses the role of technology and its impact on sexuality. It explores how emerging technologies, such as virtual reality and embodied interfaces, are shaping the future of sexual experiences and opening up new possibilities for desire and pleasure.
Main Idea 4
The podcast episode reflects on science fiction tropes and their portrayal of artificial intelligence, embodiment, and transcending human intelligence. It highlights the challenges of representing superintelligence and the ethical dilemmas that arise when AI becomes a dominant force in society.
Exploring the Nature of Post-Humanism
David Roden's podcast episode delves into the concept of post-humanism and its implications. He emphasizes that post-humanism is not concerned with defining a specific ethical or moral framework, but rather, it involves being exposed to indeterminacy and the exploration of different ways of being. Roden highlights the importance of ontology and epistemology in understanding post-humanism and rejects the idea of dwelling on moral or ethical concerns. He suggests that the potential of post-humanism lies in its ability to push the boundaries of thought and engage in speculative creation.
The Power of Language and Surface Effects
Roden also discusses his approach to writing fiction and the challenges he faces in creating engaging prose. He is particularly focused on the surface effects of language, striving for clarity, banter, and a certain aesthetic appeal in his writing. Roden draws inspiration from authors like William Burroughs and aims to dislocate traditional procedures of character identification and narrative structure. He explores the use of metaphysical and speculative reflections within his narrative, providing unexpected layers of thought and inspiration for his readers.
Provocative and Experimental Philosophy
In discussing his philosophical work, Roden delves into the intersection between philosophy, fiction, and theory fiction. He explains his fascination with the perverse and desire to challenge traditional philosophical frameworks. Roden pushes the boundaries of philosophy, problematizing its very nature and utilizing diverse concepts to explore post-humanism. He also discusses the importance of experimental pedagogical approaches to philosophy and the potential for creative exploration in the field.
John Roden, author of Snuff Memories joined Taylor and I to discuss the book, theory, Dune, and more.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57088427-snuff-memories
https://www.amazon.com/Snuff-Memories-David-Roden/dp/B08VY76S6H
https://soundcloud.com/david-roden
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