Then & Now: Philosophy, History & Politics

Paul Taggart, a leading expert on populism, dives deep into the complexities of this political phenomenon. He discusses how populism interacts with democracy, drawing on historical examples like the American People's Party and charismatic figures such as Huey Long. Taggart highlights the shift of populism from the fringes to mainstream politics and its implications for democratic values. He also unpacks the nuanced relationship between populism and media, emphasizing both the threats and enhancements it poses to democratic governance.

The podcast dives into the internal battles people face with cravings, advocating healthy alternatives. It explores how AI is reshaping job markets, emphasizing human creativity and personal branding. Decisiveness is highlighted as vital in contrast to AI's analytical abilities. The discussion moves to the societal effects of technology, urging a balance between human needs and advancements. Finally, it showcases the versatility of on-demand services like Uber Eats, encouraging new habits while managing cravings.

Explore the rise of monopolies and authoritarianism and their impact on individual freedoms. Delve into historical perspectives, from early anti-monopoly sentiments to the evolution of corporatism. Discover how economic crises and consolidation fuel inequality and examine the significance of key legislation like the Sherman Antitrust Act. Analyze the risks monopolies pose to innovation and how past corporate behaviors echo in today's markets. Finally, discuss the challenges of breaking up major tech companies and fostering competition in media.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover Karl Marx's profound impact on modern society and politics, especially his views on commodities and human experiences. Dive into the naturalistic fallacy he critiqued, challenging fixed ideas about society. Explore his revolutionary thoughts against capitalism and the alienation that arises from it. Uncover the dual nature of commodities and labor, the clash between technology and workers, and the importance of proletarian unity. Engage with Marx's flexible philosophy that invites critical thinking and community participation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the captivating history of artificial intelligence, exploring the philosophical debates that shaped its trajectory. Discover the ethical dilemmas surrounding copyright issues with AI models and the hidden human labor fueling this technology. From the rise of Deep Blue to the ethical implications of using AI for sensitive tasks, the podcast unpacks the complex relationship between machine and human intelligence. As the need for regulation grows, it highlights critical questions about creativity, identity, and the future of AI in our society.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The journey through historical progress starts with the discovery of penicillin, showcasing how chance intertwines with human suffering. Liberty's evolution is dissected, revealing the philosophical battles against monarchism and the church. The podcast challenges oversimplified views, highlighting the complexity in scientific revolutions and societal changes. Lessons from history shape modern public health, reflecting on cholera mapping’s impact. Finally, it confronts humanity's capacity for atrocity, reminding us of the importance of cultural education and personal responsibility.