The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast PREMIUM-PEL Back-to-School Nightcap 2025
Sep 20, 2025
The hosts delve into Steven Pinker's views on Enlightenment and progress, debating the definition of 'progress' and its potential downsides. They then explore Fukuyama's defense of liberal democracy, contrasting it with Pinker's approach. The conversation touches on the impacts of identity politics and institutional failures on democracy, sparking an engaging discussion about current political climates. The segment concludes with an invitation for listener support.
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Pinker’s Quantitative Defense Of Progress
- Steven Pinker champions Enlightenment values and quantifies progress through reduced violence and better health outcomes.
- Mark sees that empirical, numbers-led defense of liberal institutions but notes it can feel naive without deeper political theory.
Define Progress Before Claiming It
- Dylan and Seth criticize Pinker for offering sweeping historical narratives and unexamined value assumptions about what counts as progress.
- They stress that claims of progress must define the good rather than assume it is obvious.
Numbers Need Philosophical Backing
- Mark acknowledges Pinker’s naivety but defends the value of arguing for Enlightenment gains numerically.
- He contrasts that with the need for stronger philosophical and political engagement, which Fukuyama provides.
