Within Reason

Brant Pitre, a distinguished New Testament scholar at the Augustine Institute, dives deep into the complex web of Jesus' claims of divinity. He explores whether Jesus explicitly identified himself as God and the historical context of his actions, emphasizing their theological implications. Pitre examines the concept of blasphemy as it relates to Jesus' identity and the significance of worship associated with him. Listeners will enjoy detailed insights into early Christian beliefs and how they contrasted with traditional Jewish thought.

Jim Al-Khalili, an Iraqi-British theoretical physicist and popular science communicator, dives into the bizarre world of quantum physics. He unveils the paradoxes of quantum mechanics, touching on the double-slit experiment's implications. The discussion explores bird navigation through quantum biology and critiques common misconceptions tying quantum principles to consciousness. Al-Khalili also grapples with the relationship between time, entropy, and reality, raising profound questions about our understanding of the universe.

Joe Folley, a Cambridge philosophy graduate and creator of Unsolicited Advice, dives deep into the world of logic. He compares Aristotelian and Stoic logic, revealing how these foundations impact clarity in reasoning. The discussion also touches on the importance of validity versus soundness in arguments and the intriguing consequences of contradictions. Folley simplifies complex concepts like fuzzy and modal logic, while humorously exploring truth claims—like whether your mum knows about your orientation—making the exploration of logic both enlightening and entertaining.

Dan McClellan, an American biblical scholar and author, delves into the complexities of divine plurality in scripture. He discusses why God uses the plural term 'us' in Genesis, questioning traditional monotheistic interpretations. The conversation explores the historical context of polytheism in the Old Testament, the role of lesser gods, and the significance of translation differences. McClellan also critiques modern understandings of idols and divine authority, challenging listeners to rethink conventional views of God in biblical texts.

Peter Godfrey-Smith is an Australian philosopher of science and a professor at the University of Sydney, known for his insights into the evolution of cognition. He delves into the fascinating world of octopus consciousness, comparing their decentralized brains to human cognition. The discussion challenges ideas about pain perception and animal welfare, specifically considering shrimp and their ethical implications. Godfrey-Smith also explores panpsychism, questioning if everything possesses some form of consciousness, and highlights the complexities of animal experiences.

Niayesh Afshordi, a physics professor at the University of Waterloo, and Phil Halper, a science communicator and space photographer, dive into cosmic origins. They unravel misconceptions about the Big Bang, arguing it’s not the start of time but an evolution from a hot state. The duo discusses cosmic inflation’s role, likening it to a growing cake, and explores intriguing ideas about a multiverse. They also challenge notions of time and infinity, urging listeners to rethink everything about the universe's beginnings and the interplay between science and faith.

Simon Blackburn, a prominent philosopher known for his engaging introductions to complex ideas, dives into the world of ethical emotivism. He contrasts cognitivism and non-cognitivism, unpacking their impact on moral truths. Blackburn explores his coined term 'quasi-realism' and its implications, particularly in relation to moral perspectives shaped by emotions. The conversation also touches on the interplay between language and belief, highlighting how personal feelings influence our understanding of ethics and the expression of moral judgments.

In this engaging discussion, Sabine Hossenfelder, a German theoretical physicist and science communicator, dives into the complexities of quantum physics and the concept of superdeterminism. She addresses the philosophical entanglement of free will and determinism, drawing from historical figures like Einstein and Bohr. Sabine also explores consciousness, questioning whether it can be replicated by machines or if it's inherently tied to biological systems. The conversation traverses the boundaries of science and philosophy, challenging listeners to rethink their perceptions of existence.

Rick Alan Ross, an American deprogrammer and cult specialist, discusses the nuances of cult leadership and belief. He distinguishes between benign and destructive groups, shedding light on the psychological manipulations employed by leaders like Jim Jones. Ross emphasizes the emotional toll on ex-members and the signs to recognize modern cult involvement. He also navigates the ethical dilemmas of interventions and the impact of societal dynamics on cult behaviors. His insights underscore the complex interplay between belief, manipulation, and the human experience in such environments.

Helen Bond, a Professor of Christian Origins at the University of Edinburgh and co-author of 'Women Remembered: Jesus’ Female Disciples,' discusses the often-ignored contributions of female followers in Jesus' ministry. She highlights key figures like Mary Magdalene and Salome, emphasizing their significant roles and challenging traditional narratives that downplay women's impact in early Christianity. Bond also explores the historical marginalization of women in religious art and representation, advocating for a reevaluation of their essential contributions to the faith.