Overthink

"They find our bodies repulsive." Kate Manne, a philosopher and author, discusses fatphobia in our culture, questioning the validity of the BMI as a measure of health and the harmful effects of dieting. She explores the historical link between fatness and blackness, highlighting the impact of fatphobia in philosophy. The podcast also delves into the intersection of fatphobia with racism and classism, as well as the deep politicization of fatness. The speakers challenge societal stigmatization of fatness and explore misconceptions and biases surrounding weight and health.

Exploring the world of biohackers and the philosophical questions it raises. Topics include: night vision, superhuman strength, ethics of self-experimentation, consequences of Cartesian dualism, nostalgia for a pastoral paradise, human desire for experience and investigation, transcending our bodies, cryonics research, cryopreservation for future revival, misconceptions about freezing bodies, different aspects and applications of biohacking, ethical implications, risks and harm of DIY biohacking, metaphor of entrance and penetration, trade-offs and human control limitations, dental guard as a biohacking solution, search for peak performance, uncertainties and risks in gene editing, concerns of accessibility and bioterrorism.

From the origins of money to the impact of student debt, Ellie and David discuss debt as a metaphorical imbalance and the concept of intellectual debts. Nietzsche's perspective on debt and morality is explored, along with the consequences of insurmountable student debt on higher education. They also delve into the implications of debt in a society plagued by wealth inequality and the idea of a debt-canceling Jubilee.

The podcast delves into the philosophy behind pity, exploring its role in society and culture. Topics discussed include differing views on Father Mackenzie, triggers for pity in professional settings, the criticism of pity in disability studies, and the concept of pity in the disability rights movement. The speakers also delve into the problems with pity, the power relation it creates, and Aristotle's perspective on pity versus compassion.

Overthink invites Justin L. Clardy, philosophy professor and author of Why It's OK To Not be Monogamous, to discuss love beyond monogamy. They explore reimagining relationships, questioning the role of marriage in consumer capitalism, and finding agency, identity, and community in non-monogamous pathways. The chapter also touches on the impact of marriage on well-being and the value of relationships beyond romantic aspects.

Ellie and David explore mommy issues, including psychonalytic theories, Simone de Beauvoir's critique, mother-child bonds, and the concept of a 'good enough mother'. They also discuss the Madonna-whore complex, insults related to mothers in different languages, and the shocking case of Dee Dee and Gypsy Rose.

Explore the concept of 'daddy issues' and their influence on personal relationships, including signs, anxious attachments, and little prince mentality. Analyze how father figures contribute to patriarchal systems, contradicting non-toxic masculinity. Discuss the father's emotional dominance and power dynamics, challenging traditional stereotypes. Analyze the father's response to his daughter's sexuality. Delve into the Oedipus complex and its association with Freudian psychoanalysis. Discuss sublimation and the ambivalent relationship with fathers. Explore the central fantasy in Christian theology involving the suffering father and the crucifixion of Jesus. Share emotional goodbye and care work experiences.

Hosts Ellie and David delve into the intriguing world of psychedelics, discussing their historical significance and current resurgence. They explore the effects of psychedelics on the default mode network in our brains and how they disrupt our everyday perceptions. The podcast also examines the connection between babies' brain connections and psychedelic experiences. Additionally, philosophers' encounters with psychedelics and their impact on perception and research are explored. The hosts also discuss the process of psychedelic therapy and its potential applications in treating various conditions, while addressing concerns and ethical considerations surrounding this form of therapy.

Food critic and philosophy professor Shanti Chu joins the podcast to discuss the gendering of meals, ethics of food systems like lab-grown meat, and the future of restaurants. Other topics include the connection between food and identity, the omnivore's paradox, and the loss of local food cultures due to globalization.

Exploring the paradox of authenticity in a social media-driven world and reality TV, questioning the distinction between authenticity and sincerity, and delving into postmodern critiques of authenticity. Examining Heidegger's unique understanding of authenticity and its evolution in society, including its impact on reality television. Investigating the relationship between authenticity, trauma, and drag culture, and discussing the play with appearances and concepts of realness in drag culture.