Political Philosophy Podcast

How has equality been thought about throughout human history? Is there a final definition of the term? Does it have a potential dark side, and how does its history compare to that of freedom? Darrin McMahon joins the podcast to discuss.

Political theorist Matt McManus delves into the modern American right, exploring hierarchy and the Biden administration. He discusses conservatism history, radical figures like Goldwater, male resentment, illiberalism, liberalism evolution, media's role in Trump's rise, pragmatic voting for Biden, and leftist movement support for unions and electoral politics.

Kevin Vallier, expert on integralism, discusses the rise of the intellectual movement on the religious right known as integralism. Topics include the history and philosophy of integralism, exploring Catholic integralism, the relationship between state and church, the evolution of political views, therapy culture in political ideologies, similarities between extreme ideologies, navigating integralism and church teachings, and religious alternatives to liberalism.

I'm joined by Amanda Podany, author of Weavers, Scribes, and Kings, to chat all things Ancient Near East. From her 'microhistory' method, to the culture, religion, gender norms, politics, and even food of the period. (After a longish pause in episodes I'm coming back with two at once!)

After a content creation sabbatical, the podcast is back! Friend of the Podcast Philip Pettit returns to discuss his latest book - the State - we discuss his genealogy of norms, laws, and nations.

I'm Joined by Jonathan Jowlands for an in-depth discussion of historical Jesus research. We cover the history of the 'quest' and the different worldviews we both bring to it. Jonathan lays out a view for including theological perspectives, and I defend a 'history only' approach.

Why did democrats exceed expectations in the midterms, and what does that mean for America's increasingly unstable democracy? I give some overall reactions and analysis in this solo episode.

I'm joined by Virginia Mantouvalou to discuss her upcoming book on worker's rights. We look at how state rules and regulations can make workers at risk of explotation, and the role of human rights in addressing these injustices.

An extended episode in which I take on one of the most significant historical mysteries of all time: What happened at, and after, the death of Jesus? What did Paul see, or claim to have seen? How and why the gospel accounts differ, and my best guess on the reality behind it all.

I'm joined by Alfred Mele to discuss his latest book - Free Will: An Opinionated guide. We cover how philosophers think about these issues and some common examples, then discuss our general thoughts on both compatibilism and libertarian free will.