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Philosophy For Our Times

Metaphysics and science: do we need both? PART 2 | Eric Weinstein, Becky Parker, Hilary Lawson

Aug 31, 2024
Join provocative mathematician Eric Weinstein, award-winning physicist Becky Parker, and post-post-realist philosopher Hilary Lawson as they tackle the relevance of metaphysics in today's scientific landscape. They debate whether science has eclipsed metaphysical inquiries and discuss the importance of creativity in scientific education. The conversation highlights the allure of hands-on discovery and the need for epistemic humility while exploring contentious topics like string theory. Their insights offer a fresh take on the intersection of belief and empirical truth.
26:26

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The discussion highlights that metaphysical frameworks are essential for framing scientific inquiry despite the evolving nature of scientific truths.
  • Emphasizing hands-on scientific experiences for students is crucial to ignite their curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of complex concepts.

Deep dives

The Role of Metaphysics in Science

The discussion centers around the necessity of metaphysics in the realms of science and philosophy. The speakers explore whether metaphysical assumptions are inherently unavoidable while developing scientific theories. They emphasize that while scientific progress often involves revising previous models, this does not eliminate the need for a metaphysical framework within which to operate. The challenge lies in balancing rigorous scientific inquiry with the recognition that our understanding of reality may constantly evolve, reframing our foundational concepts as new discoveries emerge.

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