The Dissenter

Dr. Jason Clarke, a cognitive scientist at the University of West London and author of *Constructing Experience*, dives into the brain's role as a prediction machine. He explores how expectation shapes perception and discusses the hierarchy of predictions influencing sensory experiences. Clarke explains the importance of attention in consciousness and highlights experiments revealing inattentional blindness and expectation-driven phenomena. He also connects these ideas to clinical implications, particularly in understanding hallucinations and mental health conditions.

Rebecca Love, an adult film performer and co-founder of the Adult Film Star Network, dives into the complexities of sex work. She shares her journey from college acting to the adult industry and how technology has transformed careers with platforms like OnlyFans. Discussing negative societal attitudes towards sex workers, she advocates for destigmatization, better health care, and recognition of consent. Rebecca also critiques the hypocrisy in public perceptions of sex work while promoting the empowerment and humanity of performers. Her insights challenge assumptions and highlight the diverse paths within the industry.

Mark Wicclair, a Professor of Philosophy Emeritus specializing in bioethics, delves into the contentious topic of conscientious objection in medicine. He clarifies how moral beliefs can lead to refusals of care and contrasts them with non-moral objections. The discussion touches on the balance between physician conscience and patient rights, and the ethical implications of conscientious provision in cases like abortion. Wicclair challenges critiques of conscientious objection, advocating for a nuanced understanding of moral integrity and the importance of respecting diverse beliefs in healthcare.

Walter Veit, a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Reading and author of A Philosophy for the Science of Animal Consciousness, shares fascinating insights on animal minds. He proposes a bottom-up approach to consciousness, focusing on its evolutionary roots. Veit critiques the vision bias in consciousness science and emphasizes the significance of studying diverse animal experiences. He introduces the concept of 'phenomenological complexity' and discusses how hedonic evaluation played a role in the origins of consciousness, inviting listeners to reconsider what it means to be conscious.

Kaytlin Bailey, a sex worker rights advocate and founder of Old Pros, delves into the rich history of sex work dating back thousands of years. She critiques anti-sex-work feminists, emphasizing the importance of listening to sex workers. The conversation touches on the stigma they face, the impacts of platforms like OnlyFans, and the need for decriminalization over legalization. Kaytlin also discusses the diversity of motivations for sex work, consent, and the importance of legal protections to ensure safety and health for all workers.

Kah Dantas, a Brazilian writer and adult content creator, dives deep into the intersections of sex work, Marxism, and feminism. She discusses the complexities of sex work, debunks myths about porn addiction, and critiques hypocrisy from religious views. Kah emphasizes the importance of class solidarity among workers and critiques liberal feminism's focus on privileged women. The conversation also touches on how sex work can serve emotional needs and examines the political landscape in Brazil, including the rising influence of evangelicalism.

In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Nagel, a philosopher from the University of Toronto, delves into the intricacies of epistemic intuitions and knowledge. She defines epistemic intuitions and explains their role in philosophical discourse, referencing both Western and South Asian traditions. Nagel contrasts philosophical and psychological perspectives on knowledge, discussing how common knowledge is formed in conversations. She also highlights the significance of reflection in understanding knowledge and encourages integrating empirical science with philosophy to enhance our grasp of these concepts.

Ava Devine, a trailblazing adult film performer and host of the Ava Devine’s Bad Advice Podcast, shares insights from her 22-year career in the sex industry. She discusses the evolution of porn, the importance of emotional connection in her work, and how platforms like OnlyFans have empowered creators. Ava also tackles societal stigma, the variety of performers, and her advocacy for freedom and choice in relationships. With engaging anecdotes, she reflects on personal growth, industry friendships, and her passion for connecting with fans.

Keegan Kjeldsen, a YouTuber, podcaster, and musician specializing in Nietzsche studies, dives deep into the complexities of Nietzsche's philosophy. He refutes the idea of Nietzsche as an irrationalist and explores the interplay between reason, morality, and truth. Keegan discusses the implications of Nietzsche's ideas on politics and the herd mentality, emphasizing the importance of authenticity amidst moral frameworks. The conversation touches on the relevance of Nietzsche's thought today, inviting personal transformation and a reevaluation of societal norms.

Eric Storm, an Associate Professor of History at Leiden University and author of Nationalism: A World History, explores the rise and evolution of nationalism. He discusses how nationalism originated during the age of revolutions, linking it to citizenship and popular sovereignty. Storm details the radicalization period before WWI, the impact of global conflicts, and the cultural factors shaping nationalist identities. He raises concerns about contemporary nationalism's ties to xenophobia and geopolitical tensions, emphasizing the risks posed by strengthened borders and climate denial.