Parker's Pensées

The host presents a critique of a philosopher's moral transcendental argument, discussing consequences for their own argument. They explore transcendental arguments against theodicy and propose adjustments to strengthen them. The importance of providing meaningful explanations for suffering is discussed. The presuppositions of moral transcendental arguments and the concept of moral realism are explored. The concept of explaining away suffering and the denial of privacy are also touched upon.

Dr. Jon Matheson, philosopher and author of "Why It's OK Not to Think for Yourself," joins the podcast to discuss the concept of thinking for oneself. They explore the balance between epistemic autonomy and deference to others' beliefs, the acceptability of not thinking for oneself, and the importance of deferring to experts in certain areas. The podcast also dives into the role of self-knowledge, the significance of intellectual responsibility, and the idea that a paper can always be improved.

Dr. Luciano Floridi, expert in the philosophy of information and the philosophy of artificial intelligence, discusses various topics, including different forms of information, intentionality and interpretation of information, the relationship between information, data, and meaning, the decoupling of successful agency and intelligence in AI, and relational ontology and structural realism.

Dr. Ralph Stefan Weir, an esteemed author known for his insights into the Mind-Body Problem and consciousness, delves into fascinating philosophical discussions. He explores substance dualism and critiques modern materialism, emphasizing the importance of the soul in contemporary discourse. The conversation navigates the complexities of consciousness, contrasting human experiences with AI, while also challenging notions of immortality through mind uploading. Weir's journey highlights the relevance of historical philosophies in understanding identity and existence.

Dr. Joshua Habgood-Coote, a philosopher specializing in tech’s social impacts, dives into the implications of deepfake technology. He argues it’s not just a technological issue but a social one that requires community solutions. The conversation explores how digital labor intersects with public philosophy, offering insights into trust in journalism amidst shifting media landscapes. Additionally, they discuss the unique role of art in shaping our understanding of reality and the historical context of photo manipulation, emphasizing the need for critical engagement in the digital age.

Join author C.R. Wiley as he shares wisdom for young men in today's world, drawing from his diverse life as a contractor, philosophy professor, and pastor. The discussion covers the intersections of masculinity with artistry, the nostalgic evolution of comic book fandom, and the nuances of parenting through the ages. Wiley emphasizes the importance of discernment between traditional values and transhumanist ideologies, digging into our responsibilities for future generations while pondering space colonization and the balance of modern technology with timeless wisdom.

Dr. Kevin Vallier, author of All the Kingdoms of the World, joins the podcast to discuss political philosophy, religious alternatives to liberalism, and the historical relationship between religion and politics. They also explore the concepts of liberalism, post-liberalism, and anti-liberalism, the history of Catholicism in America, the challenges of integralism in a pluralistic society, and the power dynamics between church and state throughout history.

Dr. Joshua Farris, an expert on souls and the mind, dives deep into the philosophy of substance dualism and the complexities surrounding personal identity. He explores the relationship between the soul and mind, discussing their definitions and roles in understanding reality. Farris weaves in humor and insightful anecdotes while examining the impact of Cartesian thought on contemporary philosophy and theology. The conversation also touches on the implications of divine creation, near-death experiences, and how these ideas relate to artificial intelligence and personhood.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Taylor Cyr, a contributor to the Free Will Show, unpacks the philosophical intricacies of free will and moral responsibility. He critiques 'flickers of freedom' theories and their connection to Frankfurt cases, exploring how coercive influences shape our understanding of blame and agency. Cyr highlights the tension between determinism and alternative possibilities, while also diving into the implications of philosophical perspectives like divine determinism and Molinism. It's a thought-provoking journey into the heart of moral agency!

Dr. Selmer Bringjord, a leading figure in the philosophy of artificial intelligence and director of an AI lab, dives into fascinating intersections of AI and consciousness. He critiques physicalism while presenting a theory-first approach to understanding reality. The conversation touches on the philosophical debates around machine intelligence and implications for creativity in AI. Most intriguingly, he proposes an argument for the existence of God through the lens of artificial intelligence, raising profound questions about human cognition and divine creativity.