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Parker's Pensées

Ep. 243 - Philosophy is for Human Flourishing (Eudamonistic Metaphilosophy) w/Dr. Aaron Preston

Aug 5, 2023
Dr. Aaron Preston, a philosopher passionate about human flourishing, returns to share insights on how philosophy can enhance our lives. He explores the interplay between speculative philosophy and everyday existence, discussing the importance of personal philosophical identities. The conversation dives into the connection between philosophy and AI, advocating for a balance between theoretical exploration and practical wisdom. Preston also critiques modern philosophical specialization and highlights the need for accessible wisdom to navigate contemporary challenges.
01:09:07

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Philosophy should embrace speculative inquiries, like inverted qualia, as these reflections significantly contribute to understanding and enhancing human flourishing.
  • Dr. Aaron Preston emphasizes historical context in philosophy, arguing that insights from past thinkers can inform and improve contemporary philosophical practices.

Deep dives

The Value of Speculation in Philosophy

The host expresses a deep appreciation for speculative philosophy, discussing intriguing concepts such as inverted qualia, which poses the question of whether individuals perceive colors differently despite experiencing them the same way. This speculation delights him, signaling a longing for a space within philosophy that embraces unfettered imagination and theoretical exploration. He assesses the relevance of this speculative approach in relation to human flourishing, suggesting that such philosophical inquiry holds value as it invites reflection on fundamental aspects of existence. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balance between this kind of pure speculation and the practical applications of philosophy in understanding human life.

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