

A.C. Grayling
9 snips Sep 6, 2019
Philosopher Anthony Grayling, known for his engaging writing, discusses vital issues with Lawrence Krauss. They dive into the implications of Brexit and the current state of democracy worldwide. Grayling critiques populism and the impact of social media on political discourse. He emphasizes the critical role of youth in activism, especially regarding climate change. The conversation also advocates for humanism as a fulfilling alternative to traditional religion while underscoring the importance of rational inquiry and scientific literacy in democracy.
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Early Philosophy Interest
- A. C. Grayling's early interest in philosophy began in Africa due to limited entertainment options.
- Reading encyclopedias sparked his curiosity about iconic figures like Socrates and Plato.
Philosophy Defined
- Philosophy is "rational inquiry" into fundamental questions about the world and human existence.
- Academic philosophy sometimes focuses too much on technical details and not real-world application.
Science and Questions
- Scientific progress depends on asking the right questions, as shown by the shift from pre- to post-Copernican astronomy.
- The "all ravens are black" example highlights the importance of relevant evidence in scientific inquiry.