Parker's Pensées

Join Dr. Thomas Ward, a Baylor University philosophy professor and author of "After Stoicism," as he dives into the life and impact of Boethius. They explore Boethius's views on fortune and divine providence, revealing how he navigated the challenging waters of Stoic ethics and Christian doctrine. Ward tackles the intriguing question of human freedom under providence and explains Boethius's theodicy on suffering. This conversation blends philosophy and theology, highlighting the enduring relevance of ancient thought in our modern lives.

Dr. Mike Austin, a philosophy professor and author, dives deep into the essence of humility, exploring its role in ethics and spiritual formation. He defines humility as an accurate self-image that prioritizes others, contrasting it with honesty and discussing its significance in personal growth. The conversation touches on the integration of humility in masculinity, competition, and even church culture. Mike also shares practical practices to foster a union with God, encouraging listeners to embrace humility as a path to love and faithfulness.

Roland Allen, a book publisher and notebook historian, dives into the intriguing world of notebooks and their impact on culture. He shares how his own notebook practices evolved while researching for his book, exploring the journey from ancient diptychs to the Renaissance's zibaldone tradition. Discover how notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci influenced record-keeping and education with their unique notebook styles. Roland also highlights the communal aspects of notebooks and invites listeners to explore further resources and communities surrounding this timeless tool.

Join Dr. Brian Cutter, a philosophy professor at Notre Dame, as he dives into the profound implications of the simulation hypothesis. He passionately discusses whether we might be living in a computer-generated reality and explores consciousness beyond biological existence. The conversation challenges the indifference principle and tackles philosophical arguments from thinkers like Nick Bostrom. Cutter also examines the tension between personal belief and statistical reasoning, making a compelling case for why this topic is more than just science fiction.

Dr. Yujin Nagasawa, a philosophy professor and author of 'The Problem of Evil for Atheists,' delves into the intricate challenges posed by the problem of evil across different belief systems. He introduces groundbreaking ideas specific to atheists and multiverse pantheism, critiquing traditional views and exploring new frameworks. The conversation navigates the tension between an all-loving God and the existence of suffering, while prompting both atheists and theists to rethink their understanding of morality, existence, and the nature of suffering.

Join Dr. Philip Chase, a medieval literature expert and Tolkien enthusiast, as he delves into the rich world of J.R.R. Tolkien's philosophy of fairy stories. They discuss Tolkien's critiques of industrialization and his legacy in fantasy literature. The conversation touches on the enchanting styles of Ursula K. Le Guin, the significance of hope and eucatastrophe in storytelling, and the philosophical depths of narratives. Discover how ancient cultures and languages inform modern fantasy, reshaping our understanding of connection and identity.

Dr. Selmer Bringsjord, a renowned philosopher and cognitive scientist, dives deep into the intriguing intersection of AI and theology. He presents a compelling argument for God's existence through advanced AI, highlighting the philosophical implications of consciousness and cognition. The conversation also challenges the notion that cognition is merely computation, scrutinizing the irreversible aspects of both AI and human thought processes. Bringsjord's insights touch on the unique cognitive abilities of humans, inviting listeners to contemplate the divine mystery within our understanding of consciousness.

Dr. Joshua Farris is a philosopher of mind and theology, co-editor of 'The Origin of the Soul.' In this enlightening conversation, he explores five views on how God creates souls. The discussion contrasts physicalism with theimmaterial nature of the soul. Farris delves into hylomorphism, panpsychism, and their implications for personal identity and consciousness. He also addresses the historical decline of soul discussions and challenges to traditional theology, prompting a deep reflection on the interplay between faith and modern science.

Christopher Ruocchio, author of the Sun Eater series, and Jordan Hill, an English and philosophy teacher as well as co-creator of iWizard, dive deep into the world of science fiction and fantasy. They discuss how these genres transcend mere escapism to explore profound moral lessons and human nature. The duo examines the evolution of science fiction, its philosophical implications, and the impact of cultural dynamics on storytelling. They also critique modern book covers and the challenge of maintaining artistic integrity in an age dominated by market demands.

In this enthralling discussion, Jess of the Shire, a noted YouTube personality and Tolkien scholar, dives deep into the mystical world of magic and wizards in Tolkien's legendarium. She explores the contrasting concepts of hard and soft magic, linking them to the complexities of morality within the stories. Jess shares insights on how Tolkien viewed magic as both a form of escapism and a reflection of deeper truths, while also touching on the philosophical implications of power and corruption. Prepare for a magical journey that intertwines literature with thought-provoking themes!