Parker's Pensées

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!

Dr. Joshua Sijuwade, a philosopher and theologian known for his work in analytic theism, dives deep into the realm of analytic metaphysics. He discusses complex topics such as the nature of time, reality, and truth, using cinematic examples like 'Interstellar' to illustrate philosophical concepts. The conversation also covers the evolution of communication's impact on philosophy, the resurgence of metaphysical inquiry, and the intricacies of modal ontology and counterpart theory, enriching listeners' understanding of existence and identity.

Dr. Dre Rusavuk, a recent PhD graduate from the University of Birmingham, joins to discuss whether God is the luckiest possible being. They explore the tension between perfect being theism and the concept of luck. The conversation dives into divine immutability and how luck might coexist with a perfect God. They also tackle the implications of God's attributes on free will and moral responsibility, questioning how divine nature interacts with human understanding of luck and praiseworthiness.

Ben Yalow, an expert in science fiction and a known figure at the Hugo Awards, takes listeners through the fascinating history of the genre. He highlights Hugo Gernsback's pivotal role in establishing science fiction and discusses the cultural significance of pulp magazines. The conversation delves into the evolution from the Golden Age to the New Wave, touching on the use of pen names and their creative impact. Yalow also explores how science fiction has shaped technological advancements and the artistry behind iconic book covers.

Join Dr. Ed Uszynski, a scholar and author, as he unpacks Critical Race Theory and its significance for Christians. They discuss how personal and academic journeys shape theological perspectives, revealing the complexity of urban justice. The conversation dives into the historical roots of CRT, navigating race and identity, and the church's crucial role in addressing societal challenges. Ed also shares insights on the intersection of sports and religion, illustrating how communal experiences mirror faith. It's a thought-provoking dialogue on justice and empathy in today's world.

Dave Munson, founder of Saddleback Leather, shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey that began with a leap of faith from youth ministry to leather crafting. The conversation dives into theology, playfully pondering if our pets will be in heaven while exploring the moral implications of ownership. Munson reflects on the importance of humility and how pride can creep into business. He also discusses the challenges of generational wealth and how to integrate faith in a business setting, showcasing the intersection of craftsmanship and personal fulfillment.