Brain in a Vat

Are you just a physical body? If you have a brain transplant do you stay with your original body or move with your brain? Could the existence of an immaterial soul solve the mind body problem?   Tyron's Books: The Puzzle of Existence: Why Is There Something Rather Than Nothing?  Idealism: New Essays in Metaphysics Thumbnail Art: Lateralus Album Cover by Alex Grey

Rob Sparrow is a Professor at Monash University, focusing on the ethics of new technologies and artificial intelligence. In this enlightening conversation, he debates whether it’s ethically wrong to destroy a sentient AI or torture a robot that exhibits signs of suffering. The discussion navigates how AI appearance shapes our emotional responses and moral intuitions, while also probing the moral implications of human-robot relationships. Sparrow challenges our notions of identity and consciousness, pushing us to reconsider our responsibilities toward intelligent machines.

Are some animals more equal than others? Are game reserves a part of nature if they are man made?  Is global warming universally bad or does it benefit some species? Brain in a Vat Store: smarturl.it/Lockdownbook Thumbnail Art: Peace by Lynn Bywaters

Atom bombs, diamond billionaires, and hate mail have a special role to play in this bonus episode.   Brain in a Vat Store: smarturl.it/Lockdownbook 

Mark Oppenheimer discusses his experience interviewing Holocaust deniers and the role of journalists in reporting on controversial topics. The podcast explores the limits of free speech, the importance of open dialogue, and the power of personal transformation. It delves into the negative dynamics of online discussions, the value of in-person debates, the importance of free speech disagreements, and the limits of free speech in inciting harm or violence. It also discusses the ethical and legal implications of controversial content.

Is it wrong to only have a sexual preference for certain races? Can you have sex without being objectified? Is there a moral limit on our sexual fantasies?   Store: http://smarturl.it/LockdownBook Thumbnail Art: The Yoshiwara Prostitute by Kikugawa Eizan 

In this podcast, they discuss the meaning of life, exploring different perspectives and the concept of value. They also delve into the idea of universal meaning and significance, and examine the limitations of human knowledge. The rationality of suicide and the importance of meaning are also discussed.

Could purposely infecting volunteers with the Coronavirus help us reach herd immunity or develop a vaccine more rapidly? Is it wrong to expose people to the risk of death, even if they consent?  Thumbnail Art: Hold Your Breath Paulina Siniatkina

Can you be revolted and attracted to the same person? Can concepts be beautiful? Does art need to create sensations to be enjoyed?   IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12490350/ Thumbnail Art: A Grotesque Old Woman by Quentin Matsys

The podcast explores theories of punishment and the debate between retributivism and utilitarianism. It discusses unique rules and regulations in Africa during COVID-19 and the clash between personal freedom and public goods. The speakers also delve into areas of criminalization, the constraints of criminal law, and the complexities of determining culpability for acts like marital rape.