Barry Lam
Professor of philosophy at the University of California, Riverside, and the host and producer of the Hi-Phi Nation podcast for Slate. Author of 'Fewer Rules, Better People: The Case for Discretion'.
Best podcasts with Barry Lam
Ranked by the Snipd community
13 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 2h 4min
Episode 306: What to Expect When You're Expecting (David Lynch's "Eraserhead" with Barry Lam)
Barry Lam, a philosophy professor and author of 'Fewer Rules, Better People,' joins the discussion, challenging strict ethical frameworks. They dissect David Lynch's 'Eraserhead,' exploring its surreal existential themes of parenthood and anxiety. Lam emphasizes a balance between rules and discretion, reflecting on the detrimental effects of bureaucratic structures. The conversation weaves through Lynch's bizarre imagery, personal reflections on family dynamics, and the spiritual undercurrents that make 'Eraserhead' a profound cinematic experience.
8 snips
May 6, 2025 • 52min
Discretion with Barry Lam
Barry Lam, a philosophy professor at UC Riverside and host of Hi-Phi Nation, dives into the intriguing concept of discretion in his discussion. He challenges the drawbacks of excessive rules and bureaucracy, arguing that they can stifle decision-making in crucial areas like criminal justice. Lam explores how AI fits into this landscape, emphasizing its limitations compared to human judgment. The conversation also touches on the moral responsibilities of individuals in facing unjust laws and the necessity for educated discretion in roles of power.
