AKC Podcast

Dr Jessica Frazier discusses the concept of Self in ancient Hindu philosophy and yogic texts, exploring self construction, control systems, nature of self and emotions in Hindu worldviews, emotional life, dynamics and mechanics of self making, and the significance of self-improvement and practicing in Indian life.

The podcast explores Rabindranath Tagore's religious writings and his incorporation of pre-modern Hindu worldviews. It discusses Tagore's exploration of Hindu cosmology, his views on unity and interconnectedness, and his emphasis on a unified and cosmopolitan India. The podcast also delves into Tagore's perspective on the self-other dialectic in religious poetry and the importance of harmony and love in achieving human freedom.

Professor Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad explores the balance between spiritual pursuits and royal duties in ancient Indian traditions. The podcast delves into the complex relationship between being in the world and withdrawing from it, highlights the importance of considering gender in the conversation, and examines scenes from the Mahābhārata that challenge concepts of spiritual freedom and material power.

Professor Shitij Kapur considers the role of the university in facilitating free speech and fostering respect in contemporary society

Professor Linda Woodhead discusses generational differences in dealing with offence and emotion

Dr Shunagyu LI discusses offence and the medical profession

Dr Edward Ademolu discusses the misrepresentation of Africa in charity campaign images

Dr Nicole Graham, a feminist professor specializing in studying sexist humor, examines the harm and offensiveness of sexist humor, the ethical considerations of humor, the impact of sexist humor on society, the subjectivity and ethics of humor, and the harmful effects of sexist humor on individuals and society. The podcast highlights the need to address everyday sexism and emphasizes the responsibility we have to reflect on the content and implications of the jokes we laugh at.

The podcast discusses freedom of speech and religion, addressing court cases and controversial cartoons. It analyzes the balance between religious faith and freedom of expression, questioning the principles of liberal democracy in relation to Muslims. The chapter explores justifications for free speech, its limitations, and its impact on minority groups. It also emphasizes the delicate balance between freedom of religion and freedom of speech in a court case.

Professor Bobby Duffy discusses his research on the state of free speech in UK universities, exploring opposing views on the topic, the shift in political manifestos towards cultural wars, the rise of cancel culture, the changing perception of 'woke', the emergence of anti-woke identity, and support for free speech in UK universities.