Philosopher's Zone

Talia Morag, a Senior lecturer in philosophy at Australian Catholic University and keynote speaker at the Freud, Wittgenstein, and the Unconscious conference, explores the complex landscape of the unconscious. She discusses the tension between Freud's deep, hidden desires and Wittgenstein's surface-level understanding. Morag highlights how emotional patterns from the past shape our present, emphasizing self-awareness in psychoanalysis. The conversation also delves into the subjective nature of psychological interpretation, likening it to art criticism and questioning the scientific rigor of Freud's methods.

Neil Appel, a PhD graduate from the University of Queensland, explores the intricate relationship between Buddhism and nationalism in Sri Lanka. He reveals how Buddhist nationalism has evolved, fueled by colonial history and religious pride, leading to significant tensions with other communities. Appel discusses the impact of post-9/11 rhetoric on the Sri Lankan conflict and the increasing influence of nationalist monks in politics. He also highlights the rise of a transnational Buddhist identity, illustrating the complexities of faith and national identity.

Christoph Schuringer, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Northeastern University in London, delves into the often overlooked social and historical contexts of analytic philosophy. He challenges the notion that this branch of philosophy is apolitical, arguing that it is deeply rooted in bourgeois liberal ideologies. The conversation explores Bertrand Russell's historical narratives and the impact of Cold War politics on American philosophy, revealing how external pressures shaped philosophical discourse and methodologies, contrasting it sharply with the engaged practices of earlier traditions.

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.