Alexandra Plakias

Alexandra Plakias, an associate professor of philosophy and author of Awkwardness: A Theory, explores the social roots of awkwardness. She argues that it's not a personal flaw but a reflection of broken social scripts. The conversation highlights how power dynamics influence who feels awkward and how anxiety can stifle important conversations. Plakias shares practical tips for navigating awkward moments and emphasizes the collective responsibility to reframe our understanding of social discomfort.

Join Alexandra Plakias, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Hamilton College and author of "Awkwardness: A Theory," as she dives into the complexities of awkwardness. She discusses how it intertwines with power and morality, and whether we truly live in especially awkward times. The conversation touches on societal norms, the evolution of awkward interactions through technology, and personal anecdotes that bring humor to uncomfortable moments. Are awkward people a myth? Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration!

Alexandra Plakias, a philosopher and author of "Awkwardness: A Theory", redefines the notion of awkwardness, asserting that it stems from situations rather than individual traits. She explores how awkward moments can challenge social norms and discusses the discomfort during interactions in our divided world. With charm, she shares relatable experiences and insights on navigating goodbyes and small talk, emphasizing the role of humor in easing tension. The conversation invites listeners to embrace awkwardness as a shared human experience.