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Why Theory

Latest episodes

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56 snips
Dec 8, 2024 • 1h 17min

Hegelian Praxis

Dive into the fascinating world of Hegelian praxis as contradictions and philosophical reflections take center stage. Explore the power of disappointment in media, exemplified by the series 'Severance,' revealing growth through emotional navigation. Delve into the humorous absurdity of urban life while critiquing societal expectations and disillusionment. Engage with the complexities of cultural conflicts and the necessity of addressing core societal issues. Ultimately, embrace the existential gaps that lead to new ideas and revolutionary potential.
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24 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 14min

The Beautiful Soul

Explore Hegel's intriguing concept of the 'beautiful soul' and its relevance to today's political landscape. The hosts dissect the tension between morality and political action, arguing for a shift towards embracing moral imperfection. Delve into the morality of forgiveness in politics, where sometimes lies might serve a greater good. They tackle right-wing populism and leftist dissatisfaction, seeking deeper truths beyond mere factuality. Finally, cinematic analyses of 'Wings of Desire' and 'Manhunter' reveal profound insights into love and identity.
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42 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 1h 18min

Hegel & Feminism

Dive into the fascinating links between Hegelian philosophy and feminism. Discover how contradictions shape both theories and the critiques of patriarchal structures through feminist lenses. Explore cultural nuances in representation, personal narratives, and the impact of identity on societal critiques. A lively discussion also connects Hegel’s ideas to contemporary issues, including the intersections of disability and queer theory. Plus, enjoy reflections on political engagement and the humorous challenges of academia.
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26 snips
Oct 26, 2024 • 1h 15min

Aufhebung (Sublation)

Dive into Hegel's concept of Aufhebung, the intriguing idea of canceling, preserving, and elevating contradictions. Uncover its vital role in understanding dialectics and how it reshapes philosophical inquiry. Explore contrasting views on capitalism, dissecting extreme thinkers against Hegelian frameworks. Analyze the love story in 'Titanic' through Hegelian lenses, revealing themes of transformation and sacrifice. Reflect on the preservation challenges of media history and the philosophical implications tied to identity and societal expectations.
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5 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 1h 47min

Contemporary Horror

The hosts explore the evolution of contemporary horror, discussing iconic films from 'Night of the Living Dead' to 'It Follows.' They analyze themes of monstrosity, societal reflections, and casting choices that highlight racial tensions. The character of Jack Torrance in 'The Shining' is examined alongside its unique cinematic techniques. They delve into the effective horror of unseen monsters in 'Blair Witch Project' and 'Paranormal Activity,' while also linking horror narratives to cultural critiques like ageism and feminism in media.
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69 snips
Sep 29, 2024 • 1h 14min

Fredric Jameson

In a heartfelt tribute to Fredric Jameson, the theorist renowned for his critical insights across various disciplines, hosts Ryan and Todd delve into his legacy. They explore his influential ideas on political unconsciousness and dialectical criticism. The discussion highlights the tension between Marxism and existentialism in the pursuit of utopia, critiques Walmart's economic practices, and reflects on climate change's personal impacts. Finally, they ponder the contradictions in a militarized society's quest for equality, drawing on Jameson's theories to frame these complex issues.
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9 snips
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 30min

Horror Film

Dive into the eerie world of classical horror films, where life grapples with the beyond. The hosts dissect iconic movies like 'Frankenstein' and 'Psycho,' exploring their psychological impacts and societal reflections. Discover the artistic intricacies of 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari,' along with how sound and visuals shape our fears. The evolution of horror through remakes like 'Godzilla' reveals complex themes of monstrosity. Finally, examine the genre's enduring presence in modern cinema amidst changing tastes.
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Sep 2, 2024 • 1h 33min

Heist Film

Unlock the secrets of heist films as the hosts dissect their unique structure of desire versus object. Delve into the evolution of the genre and its interplay with crime and law enforcement. Explore psychological dynamics, from the allure of wealth to moral complexities in classics like 'Rififi' and 'Heat.' Discover how non-linear narratives enrich storytelling and challenge audiences. Lastly, examine the shifting portrayals of masculinity and femininity in iconic films and the societal issues woven into their plots.
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7 snips
Aug 18, 2024 • 1h 41min

Sports Film

Dive into the captivating world of sports films as the hosts unravel their evolution, humorously connecting them to Halloween candy. Discover the iconic legacy of 'Rocky,' with its themes of resilience and underdog triumph. Explore emotional narratives of athletes' journeys and family bonds, including a surprising film featuring Ray Allen. Unpack the representation of women in 90s sports films and the societal themes evident in classics like 'Caddyshack,' blending humor with class dynamics. The discussion is a rich tapestry reflecting life's challenges and victories.
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15 snips
Aug 4, 2024 • 1h 22min

New Introductory Lectures

Dive into Freud's intriguing theories as hosts unpack the essentials of his New Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis. Explore the puzzling concept of the death drive and its implications for personal relationships and society. Discover how Freud’s ideas intersect with contemporary issues like trauma, power dynamics, and gender roles, all while enjoying humorous anecdotes about dietary preferences and cultural critiques. This lively discussion blends psychoanalysis with modern dilemmas, encouraging a fresh look at traditional theories.

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