Philosopher Agnes Callard and economist Robin Hanson explore the complexities of multiculturalism, embracing substantive disagreements, the relationship between confidence and knowledge in inquiry, navigating cultural diversity, the paradox of tolerance, extremes of tolerance in cultural practices, and the complexities of decentralization and centralization in world governance.
True cultural diversity requires deeper understanding beyond superficial features.
Fundamental disagreements on values challenge rational conversation for resolution.
Decentralization may offer a balance between preserving cultural variety and maintaining coherence.
Deep dives
Stanley Fish's Concepts: Boutique Multiculturalism vs. Politics of Difference
Stanley Fish discusses the concepts of boutique multiculturalism and politics of difference, highlighting the differences between shallow multiculturalism that embraces superficial cultural features and a deeper form that allows cultures full expression of their differences. He points out that neither approach fully embraces true cultural diversity.
Debunking Liberal Thinkers' Ideas
Fish critiques liberal thinkers like Rawls and Gutman, arguing that the fundamental disagreements are not just intellectual but about values that cannot be easily reconciled. He challenges the notion that rational conversation can resolve all disagreements, highlighting the real conflicts between groups with opposing values.
Importance of Cultural Evolution
The discussion delves into the role of cultural evolution in shaping human societies and values. It explores how cultural diversity can lead to a better understanding of different cultural practices and values, emphasizing the need for a sustainable level of cultural variety.
Challenges in Promoting Diversity
The podcast examines the challenges in promoting cultural diversity, considering scenarios like tolerance of extreme cultural practices such as human sacrifice and ethical dilemmas regarding the extent of tolerance in a diverse society. It highlights the complexities of balancing tolerance and diversity.
Centralized Control vs. Decentralization
The conversation touches on the debate between centralized control and decentralization in managing cultural diversity. It discusses the potential benefits of decentralization in preserving cultural variety while acknowledging the complexities and challenges in maintaining a balance between diversity and coherence.
Imagine two smart curious friendly and basically truth-seeking people, but from very different intellectual traditions. Traditions with different tools, priorities, and ground rules. What would they discuss? Would they talk past each other? Make any progress? Would anyone want to hear them? Economist Robin Hanson and philosopher Agnes Callard decided to find out.