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What If You’re Wrong? How Uncertainty Makes Us More Human with William Egginton

Apr 8, 2025

In a thought-provoking discussion, William Egginton, a Professor of the Humanities at Johns Hopkins University and author, examines the intricate relationship between uncertainty and humanity. He challenges the notion of absolute certainty, discussing how biases shape our perceptions and the interconnectedness of philosophy and quantum physics. Egginton explores the fluidity of identity, emphasizing that our sense of self evolves through relationships. He also dives into the philosophical debate of free will versus determinism, revealing deep insights on the nature of reality.

58:43

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Episode guests

William Egginton

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The podcast highlights the importance of embracing uncertainty, suggesting it fosters wisdom and connection rather than rigid beliefs about reality.

A significant theme is the idea that personal identity is shaped through relationships and interactions rather than existing as a fixed entity.

The exploration of quantum mechanics illustrates how our observations can influence outcomes, paralleling the complex dynamics of human relationships and biases.

Deep dives

The Power of Storytelling in Understanding Reality

Stories play a crucial role in how individuals interpret the mathematical models that define the physical world. Great thinkers emphasize that the thoughts we entertain significantly shape our understanding, indicating that negative thoughts can cloud our perception of reality. The concept of feeding the 'good wolf' highlights the importance of nurturing positive thoughts and actions to foster a more empowering mindset. By embracing uncertainty, as seen in quantum mechanics, individuals can find the key to a more fulfilling life by recognizing that their interpretation of reality is just one of many possible narratives.

Intro

4min

The Battle Within: Understanding Knowledge and Reality

18min

Perceptions of Reality: A Philosophical Journey

10min

Relational Existence: Bridging Philosophy and Science

6min

The Fluidity of Identity

10min

Free Will vs. Determinism: A Philosophical Inquiry

10min

Entangled Choices and Time

8min

In this episode, William Egginton invites you to ask the question, “What if you’re wrong?” as he explains how being uncertain makes us more human. William explores the surprising overlap between a physicist, a philosopher, and a poet—each of whom came to the same unsettling truth: that we mistake our model of reality for reality itself. But this isn’t just about subatomic particles or dusty old philosophy books. It’s about how certainty—especially in our relationships—can blind us. What if embracing uncertainty is actually the doorway to wisdom, compassion, and a more connected life?

Key Takeaways:

Exploration of the intersections between philosophy, literature, and quantum physics.
Discussion of the nature of reality and the limitations of human knowledge.
Examination of biases and their impact on perception and understanding.
Importance of interpretation in both science and philosophy.
Relational understanding of identity and its formation through interactions.
Analysis of free will versus determinism and its philosophical implications.
Concept of “degrees of freedom” in understanding human agency.
Implications of quantum mechanics on our understanding of reality.

If you enjoyed this conversation with William Egginton, check out these other episodes:

How to Find Zest in Life with Dr. John Kaag

Unsafe Thinking with Jonah Sachs

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