Conversations with Peter Boghossian

Robert McKenzie, an expert from the Cayre Art Group focusing on contemporary and post-war art, dives into the fascinating world of art valuation. He argues that art’s worth can be objectively assessed and explores the tensions between originality and influence through Pollock’s work. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of art, reflecting on how personal and societal contexts affect its appreciation. McKenzie also discusses the changing definitions of beauty in the age of postmodernism and the intriguing intersection of AI and creativity.

Psychedelic historian Tom Hatsis was an atheist until he tried psychedelics. Then he went from atheist to theist. Psychedelic encounters reshaped his understanding of the divine. In our conversation, Hatsis and I dove into the enigmatic world of psychedelics, exploring their history, safety, and transformative potential. Hatsis, a meticulous researcher, unpacked the distinctions between DMT, Ayahuasca, psilocybin mushrooms, and 5-MeO-DMT, each offering unique pathways to altered states of consciousness.  Tom's new book, "Psychedelic Injustice"  Watch this episode on YouTube.

Join Jacob Mchangama, the founder of The Future of Free Speech and a research professor at Vanderbilt, as he dives into vital discussions about free speech's role in democracy. They debate how best to frame free speech, with Jacob emphasizing its moral weight as a cornerstone of human dignity. The conversation also touches on the contrasts of free speech between authoritarian regimes and democracies, the challenges posed by religious beliefs, and the implications of AI on culture. A thought-provoking exploration of free expression and its significance!

My guest for this episode was Jamie Roberts, author of the excellent Intellectual Dark Web: A History (and Possible Future). We traced the IDW’s rise, fragmentation, and legacy. The Intellectual Dark Web (IDW) emerged as a loose alliance of heterodox thinkers—figures like Sam Harris, Jordan Peterson, and the Weinstein brothers—who challenged mainstream narratives on free speech, identity politics, and meritocracy. Watch this episode on YouTube.

My friend Tim Urban, author of one of the most important books of the last 50 years, What’s Our Problem? We dove straight into the deep end—discussing the three existential threats facing the West. From there we segued into the urgency of clear writing and habits of thought to the role of reasoning and truth-seeking in the age of AI. Then we explored the question on everyone’s mind: Is Western society collapsing before our eyes? Watch this episode on YouTube.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Elmasri, author of 'Wounded by Faith' and a vocal critic of religious dogma, shares his experiences as a former Coptic Christian. He delves into the impact of Islam on European society, the complexities of immigration and cultural integration, and the struggles of identity in a predominantly Muslim environment. Elmasri emphasizes the need for respectful dialogue regarding faith and ideologies, encouraging listeners to explore personal beliefs and the societal implications of religious tensions in a multicultural world.

Brett Hall, an academic and commentator, dives into the hot topic of overpopulation and its nuances. He argues against limiting human numbers, positing that creativity flourishes with larger populations. The conversation highlights how innovative problem-solving can arise from growing challenges in resource consumption. They also delve into the impact of declining birth rates in the West and the pivotal role education plays in nurturing democratic resilience. Finally, Hall discusses the complexities of immigrant integration in Australia, emphasizing the balance of responsibilities between host nations and newcomers.

Mia Hughes, an expert on the medicalization of transgender issues in children, dives into the controversial topic of puberty blockers and their impact on youth. She discusses the ethical implications of medical experimentation on minors, questioning the motivations behind current treatment practices. The conversation critiques flawed studies and the responsibility of medical professionals in ensuring informed consent. Hughes also explores how brain development influences decision-making in adolescence, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the long-term effects of gender transition interventions.

Isabella Reinhardt, a thought leader in ethics and philosophy, joins the conversation to unravel the intricate ties between Greek tragedy and the show Severance. They explore the ethical dilemmas of identity and consent, diving into Stoic philosophy and personal autonomy. The dialogue highlights emotional complexities of self-severance and real-world parallels, including pregnancy. They also examine trust through ancient narratives like The Odyssey and ponder existence within simulated worlds, reflecting on how science fiction shapes our understanding of these deep philosophical issues.

Mia Hughes, an Ottawa-based British journalist and head of Genspect Canada, dives deep into the complexities of transgender health. She discusses how fringe activists at WPATH have influenced global medical practices, raising serious concerns about the treatment of minors. The conversation critiques institutional trust and the evidence behind gender-affirming care. Hughes highlights emotional tolls and societal pressures on youth navigating gender dysphoria, advocating for accountability and informed dialogue around these contentious issues.