Todd McGowan

Todd McGowan returns to discuss Hegelian Dialectics. Dr. Todd McGowan is a professor in the Department of English as the University of Vermont, and co-host of the Why Theory podcast with Ryan Engeley. He's published a number of books on psychoanalysis, film and more. Todd's Links: https://www.uvm.edu/cas/english/profiles/todd-mcgowan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-theory/id1299863834 https://www.otherpress.com/authors/todd-mcgowan/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/podcastcocoopercherry Twitter: @Podcastcocooper Instagram: @podcast_co_cooper_cherry

Todd McGowan, a Professor of Film Studies at the University of Vermont, delves into the complexities of universality and identity politics. He argues that universal values like equality and freedom arise from our experiences of their absence. McGowan critically examines the history of Nazism and Stalinism, offering a nuanced view that transcends typical totalitarian narratives. He also discusses how contemporary movements, such as Black Lives Matter, navigate the tension between universality and particularism, urging a reevaluation of identity's role in social struggles.

Todd McGowan, author and expert in psychoanalysis and capitalism, dives into the enchanting world of commodities and their excess. He critiques how capitalism reveals human desires while overshadowing practicality. The conversation touches on the temptations of consumer culture, ethical dilemmas surrounding products like eggs, and the paradox of organic versus non-organic choices. McGowan also explores the vital role of 'useless excess' in creating enjoyment amidst a frustrating socio-economic landscape, challenging listeners to rethink their consumption.

Todd McGowan, a Professor of Philosophy and author, joins the discussion to clear up common misconceptions about Sigmund Freud, the pioneer of psychoanalysis. He explains the true meaning of 'penis envy' and reveals how the phallus symbolizes not real authority but a deceptive form of power. The conversation explores the distinction between drive and desire, why fantasy influences our reality, and the societal implications of repression. Todd also highlights how shows like 'Mad Men' and 'The Sopranos' reflect these psychoanalytic themes.

German philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel is considered by many to be one of the most important thinkers to have ever lived. And he had a lot to say about Christianity, maybe even enough to say he changed how we thought about the faith forever. However, Hegel is notoriously difficult to follow, so Dr. Todd McGowan, author of “Emancipation After Hegel,” comes on the show to talk Hegel with the Talk Gnosis crew. We dialogue about dialectics, bringing heaven down to main street, the death of God, death in German, similarities and differences between Hegel’s thought and Gnosticism, why alienation can be a good thing, stoicism, and Hegel’s beautiful prose. Listen to Todd’s podcast “Why Theory?” at https://pod.link/1299863834  [https://ia804707.us.archive.org/1/items/finaltodd/finaltodd.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

Todd McGowan, Professor of English at the University of Vermont and author of The Cambridge Introduction to Jacques Lacan, dives deep into Lacanian theory. He details the vital distinctions between concepts like the master signifier and the quilting point. The conversation touches on the 'Joy Machine' at airports as a metaphor for consumer desire, alongside insights on gambling theory. McGowan also explores modern identity's tensions, the role of AI as the ultimate big other, and the fascinating interplay of authority and desire in today’s world.

Todd McGowan, author of 'Embracing Alienation: Why We Shouldn't Try to Find Ourselves,' discusses the intriguing politics of non-belonging. He delves into the paradox of identity in contemporary culture and the role of alienation in cinema. McGowan critiques identitarian politics while highlighting how shared alienation can foster solidarity. The conversation also touches on determinism, the complexities of narrative, and the philosophical challenges of self-discovery. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how we relate to ourselves and society.

Todd McGowan, author of "Pure Excess - Capitalism and the Commodity," dives deep into the intricate relationship between capitalism and excess. He explores how commodities, influenced by aesthetics and packaging, shape consumer experiences. A personal Oreo anecdote highlights these dynamics, while discussions on sports fandom reveal loyalty's ties to familial connections. The conversation also touches on the death drive's dual nature and its impact on consumer behavior, questioning societal values in a culture saturated with excess.

Todd McGowan discusses the relevance of Hegel's dialectical method to contemporary theory and politics, highlighting the subversive nature of contradiction. He challenges the familiar thesis-antithesis-synthesis schema and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing contradiction over 'difference'. McGowan combines philosophical discussions with playful references to films like Casablanca and Bridge on the River Kwai.

Todd McGowan, a Professor of theory and culture at the University of Vermont, dives deep into Lacanian theory while discussing his book, The Cambridge Introduction to Jacques Lacan. He challenges conventional views on Lacan as merely a psychoanalyst, presenting him as a philosopher. The conversation highlights Lacan’s ideas on the non-relation and the Borromean knot, the interplay between psychoanalysis and quantum mechanics, and critiques traditional interpretations of his concepts, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility for new learners.