David Livingstone Smith

David Livingstone Smith, a prominent philosopher and author known for his work on dehumanization and human nature, dives deep into the historical and psychological roots of dehumanization. He discusses how societal norms shift the tactics of this phenomenon, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truth that there are no true 'monsters.' Smith also critiques racial categorization as a precursor to dehumanization and emphasizes education's power in dismantling systemic oppression, all while maintaining a hopeful yet realistic outlook on societal change.

Noël Carroll, a leading figure in philosophy of art, joins David Livingstone Smith, an expert on self-deception and moral psychology, and historian Thomas Laqueur, known for his works on gender, to explore the allure of horror. They discuss why monsters evoke fear and what they symbolize about human emotions. The conversation dives into the cultural significance of graveyards in preserving memory and the haunting impact of societal dehumanization. Rituals surrounding death from various cultures reveal a fascinating blend of the secular and sacred.