Acid Horizon

Dan McQuillan, a lecturer in creative and social computing and author of "Resisting AI," shares his insights on the dystopian potential of artificial intelligence. He discusses how AI technologies can intensify oppression and perpetuate biases in sectors like education and healthcare. McQuillan delves into the colonial roots of AI and advocates for an anti-fascist approach, highlighting the need for collective resistance strategies. Engaging with historical movements like the Luddites, he emphasizes the importance of solidarity in facing the challenges posed by AI.

Claire Colebrook, a prominent scholar in feminist theory and critical philosophy, joins to explore Deleuze and Guattari's concepts of 'becoming-woman' and 'becoming-imperceptible.' They discuss how these ideas challenge traditional feminist narratives and the recuperation of capitalism. Through engaging conversations, Colebrook critiques binary notions of identity, arguing for a more nuanced understanding that embraces complexities in gender and social movements. The implications for current global crises are also examined, signaling a significant shift in philosophical discourse.

James Hillman, a leading figure in archetypal psychology, teams up with Jacques Derrida, the master of deconstruction, to tackle the fascinating interplay of alchemical concepts and psychological identity. They delve into the significance of alchemical salt and its transformative symbolism. The conversation critiques traditional psychological frameworks, highlighting the fluidity of identity. Their insights challenge contemporary debates, notably those surrounding Jordan Peterson's viewpoints, advocating for a more imaginative approach in understanding the self.

In this engaging discussion, philosopher Byung-Chul Han critiques the digital age and its impact on our freedom, arguing that technology leads to burnout and self-exploitation. His reflections on the 'achievement society' reveal how constant productivity pressures shape our lives. The conversation dives into the complexities of his philosophical landscape, connecting his thoughts on authenticity, communal engagement, and the interplay between modern desires and technology. Han's insights offer a critical lens on navigating the challenges of contemporary existence.

Serene Richards, an insightful author exploring Smart Being within biopolitics and techno-capital, delves into essential issues surrounding governance and the essence of humanity. They discuss the paradox of preemption in security systems and critique predictive technologies, highlighting their role in societal biases. Richards also emphasizes the historical implications of biopolitics on marginalized groups, advocating for a reimagining of governance that prioritizes collective well-being. Ultimately, they encourage embracing uncertainty as a path to genuine freedom.

In this engaging discussion, Stuart Kendall, author of 'Journey to Mexico: Revolutionary Messages & the Tarahumara', delves into Antonin Artaud's transformative journey in 1936. He explores Artaud's quest for a vital culture beyond European civilization, tackling themes of artistic expression, personal struggles, and his profound connection to indigenous practices. The conversation also highlights Artaud's intersection of art and politics, examining his critiques of materialism and the darker aspects of society while reflecting on the broader implications of his legacy.

Dive into a provocative analysis of Georges Bataille's thoughts on fascism and its psychological underpinning. The exploration of Marxism's complexities reveals the delicate interplay between social dynamics and capitalist structures. Delve into the societal tensions of homogeneity versus heterogeneity, assessing individual identities shaped by productivity. Unpack the chilling dynamics of scapegoating under fascist regimes and the socio-economic conditions that allow such ideologies to flourish. A thought-provoking conversation beckons!

Jon Greenaway, an author exploring capitalism through horror, dives into the chilling intersections of Gothic Marxism and societal critique. He discusses the revolutionary potential in horror narratives, referencing classics like 'Dracula' to highlight capitalist anxieties. Greenaway also examines the haunting metaphor of the house in trauma, body horror in post-COVID cinema, and the dual role of Satan as a revolutionary figure. The conversation intertwines horror with utopian visions, revealing deeper societal truths through a macabre lens.

Dominic Pettman and Eugene Thacker discuss the sadness of the universe and the implications of climate change. They explore the concept of sadness beyond human emotion, the influence of social media on emotions, and the portrayal of sadness in modern media. The conversation touches on philosophical and political concepts related to the general economy of sadness and global surplus distribution.

Keegan Kjeldsen from The Nietzsche Podcast joins Acid Horizon to compare Heraclitus and Nietzsche's philosophies. They explore concepts like change, perception, and societal structures. The discussion dives into the relationship between the two thinkers, highlighting their views on reality, knowledge, and living well amidst decline.