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Robinson's Podcast
174 - Rebecca Goldstein: Spinoza, Atheism, and the Philosophy of Literature
Dec 6, 2023
Rebecca Goldstein, a philosopher and novelist, discusses atheism, Spinoza, and the meaning of life without God. Topics include her novel, transitioning from Judaism to atheism, arguments against God's existence, and the relevance of Spinoza's philosophy. The conversation touches on morality, physics, consciousness, panpsychism, and the quest for significance in a vast universe.
01:24:41
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Quick takeaways
- Rebecca Goldstein's philosophical evolution intertwines personal experiences with intellectual pursuits, reflecting on matters of grief, parenthood, and the quest for meaning.
- The profound connection between philosophy and literature is highlighted through the narrative power of novels in decoding profound philosophical questions and challenging traditional frameworks.
Deep dives
Rebecca Goldstein's Philosophical Evolution from Novel Writing to Atheism and Analytical Philosophy
Rebecca Goldstein's journey from writing novels to delving deep into atheism and analytic philosophy is marked by a significant evolution in her philosophical perspectives. Initially trained as an analytical philosopher in the philosophy of science, she published a novel, 'The Mind Body Problem,' before securing tenure, which she viewed as a deviation from the mainstream path. Her interest in novels and philosophy intersected, prompting her to explore more existential concerns as she navigated the complexities of inner life and personal identity. This philosophical evolution reflects her deep introspection into matters of grief, parenthood, and the quest for meaning, shedding light on the interplay between personal experiences and intellectual pursuits.
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