Massimo Pigliucci - Socrates and the Stoic Quest for Character | STM Podcast #146

On episode 146, we welcome Massimo Pigliucci to discuss the value of teaching ethics, human nature and the evolutionary origins of morality, the drawbacks of moral relativism, Socrates as the first psychotherapist, whether politicians should be taught philosophy or philosophers should become politicians, the importance of role models and good friends for cultivating virtue, seeking out inspiring scenarios, Socrates’ degree of success in tutoring the morally bankrupt Alcibiades in moral philosophy, the is/ought gap in philosophy and why it doesn’t preclude the creation of a universal system of ethics, Leon’s relationship with Prof. Tim Stroup and why mentorship always involves the desire to learn from an expert who genuinely cares about his pupil’s development, and our collective responsibilities in creating a flourishing society through political activities.

Massimo Pigliucci is an author, blogger, podcaster, as well as the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. His academic work is in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, the nature of pseudoscience, and practical philosophy. He has been published in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and Salon, among others. His books include How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life and Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk. His newest book, coming out on September 27, 2022 is called The Quest for Character: What the Story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders.

Massimo Pugliucci |

► Website | https://massimopigliucci.org

► The Quest for Character Book Link | https://amzn.to/3r5TACp

Where you can find us:

| Seize The Moment Podcast |

► Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SeizeTheMoment

► Twitter | https://twitter.com/seize_podcast

► Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/seizethemoment

► TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@seizethemomentpodcast

► Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/user?u=32208666