Rory Stewart: The Long History of...

BBC Radio 4
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Jul 11, 2024 • 29min

Ignorance: 2. The Limits of Knowledge

Delve into the paradox of knowledge and its limitations in governance and policy-making. The discussion emphasizes the vital role of collective intelligence and diverse perspectives. Explore humbling insights into the universe's mysteries, highlighting the uncertainty inherent in scientific understanding. Recognizing our ignorance can ignite creativity in art and music. Additionally, uncover the unsettling truths behind the wellness industry, challenging the perceptions of spiritual progress and wellness practices.
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5 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 29min

Ignorance: 1. The Pursuit of Knowledge

The dynamics between knowledge and ignorance take center stage. Ignorance isn’t merely the absence of knowledge; it's a driving force that fuels creativity and insight. Historical shifts from divine to empirical understanding are examined, revealing the complexities of scientific progress. Wisdom from marginalized communities challenges traditional educational views, emphasizing that knowledge can often be found outside textbooks. Ultimately, embracing ignorance can foster humility and a deeper understanding of our human experience.
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Jul 8, 2024 • 3min

Ignorance: Trailer

The conversation dives deep into the essence of ignorance, revealing how our lack of knowledge shapes our worldview. It highlights the complexities surrounding understanding and encourages reflection on what we don't know. The discussion also tackles the paradox of ignorance, suggesting that embracing our limitations fosters humility and sparks creativity. By weaving in historical insights, the speaker illustrates that genuine wisdom often arises from recognizing the unknown.
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7 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 27min

Argument: 3. Synthesis

Rory Stewart delves into the importance of arguing in human life, from philosophical debates to legal decisions and democracies. He explores the dangers of bad arguments in politics and the need to rediscover how to argue well for the sake of our democracy and humanity.
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4 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 28min

Argument: 2. Antithesis

Rory Stewart discusses the importance of argument in human life, from philosophy to democracy. He reflects on the dangers of bad arguments in politics, the decline of rhetoric in modern politics, and the impact of social media on political discourse. Stewart emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue to address societal issues and foster compromises.
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30 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 27min

Argument: 1. Thesis

Rory Stewart discusses the importance of argument in our lives, from philosophical debates to legal decisions and democratic governance. He reflects on the dangers of bad arguments in politics and the historical significance of speaking and arguing well. The podcast explores the evolution of human argumentation, the impact of social media on discourse, and the power of rhetoric in shaping movements and influencing others.

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