Joshua Hochschild

Explore the significance of conscience, prudence, and natural law in decision-making. Delve into moral norms, freedom, and the philosophical basis of conscience. Understand the complexity of moral decision-making and the nature of actions. Learn about the obligations of conscience, forming one's conscience, and making informed decisions. Dive into the concept of natural law, seeking truth, and navigating moral complexity through virtue and prudence.

Joshua Hochschild, a Professor of Philosophy at Mount St. Mary’s University, delves into the profound effects of smartphones on our identities and behaviors. He discusses how digital distractions commodify our attention and undermine our agency. Hochschild critiques manipulative algorithms, drawing parallels to C.S. Lewis's concept of 'digital demons.' He emphasizes the need for ethical oversight and advocates for reflective practices to regain focus. Practical strategies like reading and contemplation are suggested to nurture our spiritual well-being in this challenging digital era.

Debates on truth in morality, challenges of empirical testing for moral judgments, survival vs. moral goodness, Aristotle's perspective on virtue, and the impact of positivism on defining truth are explored in a thought-provoking discussion on ethics and philosophy.

Guest Joshua Hochschild, Professor of Philosophy and Director of Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Mount St. Mary's University, explores the relationship between natural law and the U.S. Constitution, discussing topics such as Locke's conception of natural law, the existence of a higher law, and the nature of law according to Aquinas. The podcast also delves into the historical development of natural law and different interpretations of the founding of the United States in light of natural law.

Prof. Joshua Hochschild discusses Wendell Berry's environmental philosophy, emphasizing virtues like stewardship and piety. They explore the interconnectedness between humans and nature, the significance of storytelling and sacred scripture, and how Catholic social teaching addresses environmental care within divine providence.

In this conversation, Professor Joshua Hochschild, a philosophy expert from Mount St. Mary’s University, dives into the complex nature of love through a Platonic lens. He examines the profound speeches in Plato's Symposium, revealing how love transcends mere physical attraction to reach divine beauty. Hochschild also discusses the impact of Catholic teachings on modern sexual ethics amidst contemporary hedonism, advocating for a deeper understanding of love that aligns with human dignity and spiritual fulfillment. It's a thought-provoking discourse on Eros, Agape, and moral choices in today’s world.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Joshua Hochschild, a philosophy expert from Mount St. Mary’s University, delves into whether trees have souls through an Aristotelian lens. He highlights the profound connections between trees and human identity, exploring their cultural and spiritual significance. The talk also uncovers groundbreaking research on trees as intelligent, communicative organisms, challenging the competitive narrative of nature. Hochschild emphasizes the need to harmonize modern biology with philosophical ideas to enrich our understanding of life.

Joshua Hochschild, a Professor of Philosophy at Mount St. Mary's University, delves into marriage as a natural community and the philosophical foundations of human interactions. He contrasts Aristotle's views on natural versus artificial communities with modern social contract theory. Hochschild discusses how technology impacts relationships, highlighting the risk of detachment in communication. He draws parallels between Aristotle's insights on community, politics, and the essential virtues for meaningful relationships, emphasizing a moral order in our social fabric.

Philosophy and ethics expert Prof. Joshua Hochschild discusses the origins of the 'meaning of life' question in the 19th century and its impact on philosophy and literature. The podcast explores how this concept evolved as a response to existential crises, contrasting 'meaning of life' with 'purpose of life.' It also delves into the development of Catholic social teaching in addressing industrial challenges and incorporating reflections on personal existence, including key encyclicals like Rerum Novarum and Centissimus Annus. The episode concludes with a discussion on John Paul II's reinterpretation of the meaning of life within Catholic teachings, linking it to traditional metaphysical inquiries about humanity.

Prof. Joshua Hochschild delves into existential themes like freedom and attention through a chestnut tree analogy. The discussion progresses to the evolution of attention in the digital age, contrasting distraction with responsible attention. The impact of technology on identity and the contrast between Christian mysticism and atheistic perspectives are also explored.