Oxford philosophy professor Jonny Thomson explains how philosophy sharpens critical thinking, reveals hidden biases, and helps uncover the truth in a messy, complex world. From the Socratic method to the role of testimony and the challenges posed by AI, this episode dives into the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and the modern search for knowledge. A must-listen for lawyers and anyone who values sharper thinking.

In this episode, you will hear:

Exploration of the intersection between philosophy and artificial intelligence
Johnny Thomson's transition from educator to full-time writer and his book "Mini-Philosophy"
The role of the Socratic method in philosophy and law
Discussion of Meno's Paradox and the debate between rationalism and empiricism
Examination of the reliability of knowledge and the importance of reliable sources
Contemplation of artificial intelligence's ability to replicate human intelligence

Resources from this Episode

General Resources

Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers
Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle
Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive
Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)
Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch
Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)

Other Resources

The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter)
The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice
The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners)

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Thanks to My Sponsor

Smith.ai

Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you're hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

If there's one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Keir Starmer and 'Beergate' - What We Already Know