Thomas Baldwin

In this discussion, Timothy Mooney, Komarine Romdenh-Romluc, and Thomas Baldwin explore the life and philosophical legacy of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, a pivotal figure in phenomenology. They delve into Merleau-Ponty's critiques of Cartesian dualism and his ideas about the intertwined relationship of body and consciousness. The conversation touches on the metaphysical concept of 'the flesh of the world' and supports the notion that our embodied experiences shape our understanding of freedom, ethical action, and even political thought.

Komarine Romdenh-Romluc, a philosophy lecturer at the University of Sheffield, joins Thomas Baldwin, an Emeritus Professor at the University of York, and Timothy Mooney, an Associate Professor in Dublin. They discuss Maurice Merleau-Ponty's radical rejection of Cartesian dualism, emphasizing how our embodied perception shapes our understanding of reality. The conversation touches on the development of children's awareness, philosophical rivalries, and the impact of Merleau-Ponty's work on diverse fields like cognitive science. They also explore his unique perspectives on freedom and relationships.