Stephen Asma

Join Stephen Asma, Professor of philosophy at Columbia College Chicago and author of "Against Fairness," as he dives into the pitfalls of the fairness concept. He argues for richer ethical frameworks, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and personal connections over utilitarianism. The conversation explores how empathy's biases shape our moral choices and examines the dual nature of tribalism in ethical responsibilities. Asma also discusses the emotional insights of Dr. Yak Panksepp, enhancing our understanding of the complex interplay between feelings and ethics.

Paul Giamatti and Stephen Asma dive into various fascinating topics on this episode. They discuss the existence of watershed moments in history and challenge the definition of such moments. The story of Boston Corbett, the man who killed John Wilkes Booth, takes center stage, showcasing his unconventional life. The hosts also explore superstitions, including the Irish Fairy Thorn Tree and the persistence of superstitious beliefs in modern society. A captivating and thought-provoking conversation awaits!