Overthink

Episode 128 – CleanlinessHow often should you shower to remain ‘clean’? How many times can you re-wear your jeans before they are considered ‘dirty’? In episode 128 of Overthink, Ellie and David take a look at cleanliness. They get into how humans have turned cleanliness into an art, and maybe even an obsession. Why are we so bothered by dirt? What is dirt, anyways? How are notions of dirtiness and cleanliness even into our symbolic systems, including language and religion? And what is up with TikTok’s obsession with the Clean Girl Aesthetic? As they tackle these questions, your hosts also explore the historical weaponisation of the concept of cleanliness against marginalised groups, such as queer people and people of color. In the bonus, Ellie and David discuss cleanliness as a social construct, the link between it and isolation, and Michel Serres’s ‘excremental theory’ of private property.Works Discussed:Bruce Bagemihl, Biological ExuberanceDana Berthold, “Tidy Whiteness: A Genealogy of Race, Purity, and Hygiene”L’Oreal Blackett, “In The “Hygiene Olympics” Black Folks Always Win — But Aren’t We Tired?”Mary Douglas, Purity and DangerVirginia Smith, Clean: A History of Personal Hygiene and PuritySupport the showPatreon | patreon.com/overthinkpodcast Website | overthinkpodcast.comInstagram & Twitter | @overthink_podEmail | dearoverthink@gmail.comYouTube | Overthink podcast

Is the US already living under an oligarchy? The hosts delve into how wealth concentration among a few influences democracy and examine the philosophical roots of governance through Plato and Aristotle's contrasting views. They uncover the risks of charismatic leaders swaying the uneducated masses and debate the moral implications of oligarchic power morphing into tyranny. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for economic reforms and civic engagement to reclaim democratic values and resist oligarchic control.

Lasers, fog machines, and ecstatic experiences take center stage! The hosts explore the intertwining of mystical traditions and modern rave culture. They discuss how ecstasy transcends religious boundaries, revealing its presence in art, music, and even everyday life. Personal stories of transformative experiences with MDMA highlight the search for meaning, while a humorous philosophical dive discusses heightened perception. The comparison of ecstatic states to emotional disorders deepens the conversation, making for a delightful blend of insight and entertainment.

Talia Mae Bettcher, a prominent philosopher and author of "Beyond Personhood," dives deep into the complexities of trans identity and the societal narratives surrounding it. She critiques the damaging views of identity, like the 'wrong body' concept, and discusses how political rhetoric has escalated anti-trans sentiments. Talia introduces 'reality enforcement' as a key mechanism of oppression and argues for a more nuanced understanding of self and societal roles. This insightful conversation encourages listeners to rethink traditional philosophical notions of identity.

The discussion kicks off with an exploration of the nature of intuition, examining if it's gut feeling or just past experience. The hosts challenge the reliability of intuition in philosophy, highlighting its connection to biases. They tackle the societal influences on gut feelings and the concept of 'women's intuition' as developed understanding. Philosophical insights from thinkers like Nishida and Husserl enrich the conversation, especially regarding the boundaries of intuition in science. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to reflect on when to trust their instincts.

The hosts dive into the complexities of breakups, exploring both emotional pain and potential personal growth. They critique the commercialization of self-help in heartbreak, while humorously contrasting ancient and modern coping strategies. Ethical dilemmas around chemical interventions raise questions about identity and societal pressure. The impact of social media on healing is discussed, highlighting the challenges of constant reminders of an ex. Legal perspectives on divorce illuminate women's rights, emphasizing that breakups are often prolonged emotional journeys filled with societal myths.

Discover the fascinating origins of writing, starting with cuneiform and its evolution in civilization. Delve into the impact of generative AI on traditional writing and education, raising concerns about learning and trust. Explore journaling as a vital tool for emotional processing and the dual motivations driving writers, from personal expression to political purpose. Investigate Derrida's intriguing theories that challenge the dominance of speech over writing, revealing the profound complexities of communication and authorship.

Mariana Alessandri, an Associate Professor of Philosophy specializing in existentialism and Latina feminist thought, explores the significance of 'dark moods' and their essential role in the human experience. She discusses how societal obsession with positivity can harm emotional health and critiques the stigma surrounding grief and sadness. Mariana emphasizes the importance of embracing negative emotions and challenges the medical field's rigid perceptions of grief. Her insights encourage a more compassionate understanding of emotional struggles.

Disagreements are everywhere, from holiday dinners to social media skirmishes. The hosts explore the differences between online conflicts and philosophical debates. They discuss how confidence shapes our beliefs and the challenges of engaging with contrasting views. Historical communication methods are revisited to foster better discourse. The conversation touches on the intricacies of belief disagreements and how personal anecdotes can illuminate differing opinions. Rethinking disagreement as a path to understanding can open doors to constructive dialogues.

Ever wondered about the psychology behind reckless driving? The conversation takes you on a wild ride through the intersections of driving, consciousness, and moral dilemmas. Explore how our relationship with space and time transforms behind the wheel. Unpack the ethics of self-driving cars and the contentious debate over programming their moral philosophies. Delve into the cultural identity shaped by our choice of vehicles and ponder the implications of urban design on pedestrian experiences. Buckle up for a philosophical journey!