Philosopher's Zone

Hilary Bowman-Smart, a bioethicist with expertise in genetics and philosophy, dives into the evolving nature of medical diagnosis. She explores how technology and wellness influencers are reshaping who gets to diagnose, questioning traditional medical authority. The discussion addresses the vital role of patient participation and the challenges faced by doctors amidst misinformation. With AI and direct-to-consumer testing becoming more prominent, the podcast uncovers the complexities of trust in healthcare today.

Jonathan Wolfe, a Senior Research Fellow in Philosophy and Public Policy at the University of Oxford, navigates the nuanced connections between nationalism and immigration. He challenges the idea that nationalism inherently fosters exclusion, discussing its historical context and emotional impacts. Wolfe highlights the diverse experiences of asylum seekers across generations and contrasts them with the assimilationist views of their families. Additionally, he explores how urban and rural identities shape national sentiments, advocating for cultural coexistence and questioning the philosophical necessity of nationalism.

Chris Cousins, a Lecturer in moral and political philosophy at the University of Glasgow, explores the fascinating intersection of speech acts and artificial intelligence. He discusses how AI-generated instructions in workplaces challenge traditional notions of intention and authority. The conversation delves into ethical concerns around accountability in education, and the influence of AI tools on communication dynamics. Cousins emphasizes the need for clear guidelines to navigate these transformative changes and ensure responsible AI interactions.

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.