Philosopher's Zone

Miriam Schleifer-McCormick, a Professor of ethics and chair of the philosophy department at the University of Richmond, shares her groundbreaking ideas on belief. She argues that belief is not merely a rational construct but closely intertwined with emotions. As she challenges traditional views, she emphasizes the emotional complexity of beliefs in contexts like religion and politics. The discussion highlights how beliefs can shape our identity and emotional landscapes, urging a deeper understanding of belief as a fundamental emotional experience.

Matthew Hamilton, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Singapore Management University, dives deep into the concept of workism, which places work at the heart of personal identity. He challenges the negative perceptions of workism, arguing it can enrich life rather than create imbalance. The conversation explores the value of boredom in sparking creativity, the impact of work on our identities, and the troubling trend of 'workification' in leisure and personal relationships. Hamilton advocates for a balanced approach to meaningful work.

In this engaging discussion, Samara Greenwood, a PhD candidate in the history and philosophy of science at the University of Melbourne, dives into how feminist scientists transformed primatology. She explores the shift from the outdated notion of aggressive alpha males to recognizing the pivotal roles of female primates in social dynamics. Greenwood critiques the 'Man the Hunter' theory, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives in science. She highlights influential scholars who reshaped narratives and advocates for storytelling that reflects modern scientific insights.

Eric Heinzer, a Professor of Law and Humanities at Queen Mary University, dives deep into the political left's historical blind spots. He discusses how the left critiques Western injustices but often overlooks its own complicity in oppression. The conversation touches on critical theory's influence on modern politics and the challenges of acknowledging uncomfortable truths within leftist movements. Heinzer emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and accountability in shaping progressive discourse, especially in today’s polarized political landscape.

Emily Herring, an English writer based in Paris and author of a biography on Henri Bergson, delves into the philosopher's lasting impact. They discuss Bergson's iconic status 100 years ago, his appeal to women, and how his thoughts on technology and identity foreshadow today’s anxieties about AI. The conversation highlights the fluidity of time and consciousness, linking these ideas to feminist movements and exploring translation challenges in his works. Finally, they reflect on the rapid decline of his influence post-World War I.

Joe Hughes, a senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne, and Elliot Patsura, a postdoctoral research fellow, dive into the world of academic hoaxes. They discuss the implications of publishing a paper filled with jargon intended as a satire, questioning the value placed on superficial trends in the humanities. The duo examines infamous scandals like the SoCal Affair, revealing how such events challenge scholarly integrity and spark vital discussions about the state of knowledge production and peer review in academia.

Jessica Marion, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Melbourne, explores the philosophical renaissance in post-World War II France. She delves into how trauma fueled creative expression and reshaped philosophical thought. The emergence of dense and experimental writing styles sparked debates on accessibility and elitism in academia. Marion also examines Jacques Derrida's contributions, particularly the tension between clarity and complexity in philosophical discourse. This vibrant discussion reveals the intricate dance between language, thought, and modern intellectual traditions.

Sally Shrapnell, an Associate Professor in Physics, and Peter Harrison, a Research Fellow and Emeritus Professor in the Humanities, dive into the purpose of philosophy. They tackle the discipline's historical biases, such as sexism and colonialism, revealing how these injustices persist today. The discussion expands to the relationship between philosophy and science, questioning the nature of truth and the influence of narrative in moral understanding. They also confront the challenges posed by misinformation in the modern era, emphasizing philosophy’s role in navigating societal dilemmas.

Jessica Eisen, Deputy Director at La Trobe University and author of "Queer and Animal Provocations," explores the ties between queer liberation and animal rights. She discusses how queer identity struggles can perpetuate animal exploitation. The conversation dives into the complexities of homonormativity, critiquing the mainstream gay agenda's exclusions. Eisen also examines historical friendships between queer identities and animals, highlighting both marginalized groups' dehumanization. She emphasizes the emotional depth of activism, linking LGBTQ+ rights with compassion for all beings.

Sam Barron, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Melbourne, delves into the intricate relationship between AI and trust. He discusses the challenges of trusting black box AI systems, emphasizing the need for transparency. Barron explores how we should navigate our reliance on AI, pointing out that while these systems offer predictive power, they lack accountability. He warns against blindly anthropomorphizing AI, arguing that true trust hinges on understanding the intentions behind AI decisions, not just their outcomes.