Is metaphysics back in fashion? Or is philosophy getting increasingly lost?Looking for a link we mentioned? It's here: https://linktr.ee/philosophyforourtimesThe twentieth century began with a revolutionary new approach to philosophy. The great arguments about the nature of reality and human experience were deemed empty and meaningless. A new philosophical broom, in the form of analytic philosophy, claimed to sweep away vacuous grand theories and replace them with hard logic and analysis and a close attention to the meaning of the words. Yet, a hundred years on metaphysics is back. Theories of consciousness and the character of reality are once again the topic of debate.Should we welcome this return to stories about the ultimate character of the world? Or do they risk being empty, conveying little other than the prejudices and desires of their authors? Are grand metaphysical theories about the nature of reality and consciousness vital topics of debate or a set of fairy tales?Legendary Neurophilosophy pioneer Patricia Churchland, Closure theorist Hilary Lawson and analytic philosopher Galen Strawson lock horns over the future of metaphysics.There are thousands of big ideas to discover at IAI.tv – videos, articles, and courses waiting for you to explore. Find out more: https://iai.tv/podcast-offers?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=the-return-of-metaphysicsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this discussion, Patricia Churchland, a renowned neuroscientist and philosopher, delves into the fascinating connection between neuroscience and morality. She explores how neurochemicals like oxytocin influence our social behaviors and moral instincts. Churchland contrasts Western and Eastern philosophies, highlighting how biological factors shape our ethical frameworks. The conversation also questions traditional moral theories, advocating for a nuanced understanding of conscience and its impact on moral reasoning.

Patricia Churchland, a renowned philosopher and expert in neurophilosophy, dives into the intricate ties between neuroscience and morality. She discusses how evolutionary changes shape social behaviors and the genetic factors that foster human connections. The conversation explores oxytocin beyond its labels, revealing deeper complexities in human behavior. Churchland also connects philosophical insights on morality to ethical reasoning, critiquing societal beliefs about free will and self-awareness through the lens of neuroscience.