The Dissenter

In this discussion, Jeff McMahan, Professor of Moral Philosophy at Oxford, dives deep into the murky waters of political violence. He defines its parameters, distinguishing it from war and questioning if actions like genocide qualify as such. McMahan examines whether political violence can ever be justified, highlighting cases like Palestinian resistance and the ethics surrounding political assassinations, including the controversial Charlie Kirk case. He also tackles the ramifications of celebrating murders and debates the consequences for those expressing radical political views, emphasizing context.

In this engaging discussion, Allen Buchanan, a distinguished professor of philosophy, delves into his latest work, exploring the dynamics of social change driven by hierarchs and resistors. He emphasizes the critical role of morality and ideology in mobilizing collective action. Buchanan also contrasts revolutionary contexts, assessing the implications of democracy versus fascism. He argues that ideologies can catalyze revolutions and highlights moral progress achieved through struggles against domination, all while addressing the complexities surrounding revolutionary ethics.

Dr. Alexander Rosenberg, a philosopher and distinguished professor at Duke University, dives into the complexities of economic theory. He argues that while economics may not meet the standards of predictive science, it remains a crucial tool for policymakers dealing with self-interested behavior. The discussion also explores the concept of homo economicus, game theory's role in market interaction, and the importance of economic structures in preventing exploitation. Rosenberg insists that despite limitations, economic theory is vital for designing effective institutions.

Aubrey de Grey, a pioneering biomedical gerontologist and author of *Ending Aging*, delves into the fascinating science of aging. He discusses his unique transition from AI to biology, highlighting aging as damage accumulation. De Grey defines the concept of 'longevity escape velocity' and reveals his seven types of aging damage, emphasizing innovative repair strategies. He also explores the promising potential of therapies like stem cells and metformin in the fight against aging, and addresses societal implications, such as overpopulation and universal basic income.

In this engaging discussion, Rafael Núñez, a Cognitive Science Professor at UC San Diego, delves into the fascinating world of embodied cognition. He explains how our minds process time and space using bodily experiences and gestures. Núñez highlights cultural differences in conceptualizing time, revealing how languages shape our understanding. He also explores the development of numerical cognition, emphasizing the role of cultural practices in shaping mathematical concepts. Overall, this conversation unravels the interplay between our physical existence and cognitive processes.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Herman Pontzer, a Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology at Duke University and author of 'Adaptable,' delves into the complexities of human biological variation. He argues that race is socially constructed and biologically meaningless. Pontzer also explores how height varies due to genetics and environment, and he examines the nuances of sexual development and the distinction between sex and gender. Additionally, he discusses the evolution of human diets and the importance of understanding transgender identities as part of our biological diversity.

Join Dr. Michael Huemer, a philosophy professor and author of Progressive Myths, as he tackles controversial topics like systemic racism and the gender pay gap. He challenges common media portrayals of crime and policing, advocating for case-by-case analysis. Huemer also critiques the implicit association test and discusses whether gender is a social construct. With an insightful take on wealth origin and the impact of misinformation, he argues for rational civic responsibility in understanding political beliefs.

Anna Bocca, a YouTuber known for her insights on neoliberalism and corporate power, dives deep into the roots and consequences of neoliberal capitalism. She discusses how propaganda since the 1920s laid the groundwork for market fundamentalism, the influence of figures like Milton Friedman, and the political shifts led by Thatcher and Reagan. Bocca explores the myths of meritocracy, the rise of hustle culture, and how economic precarity fuels social movements. She questions the morality of neoliberalism and critiques the marketization of dating and self-improvement ideologies.

Dr. Edward Watts, a leading expert in Byzantine Greek History at UC San Diego and author of several history books, shares insightful perspectives on the vast legacy of the Romans. He discusses how Romans identified themselves and unpacks the origins of the Roman state from its founding myths to its remarkable absorption of diverse peoples. Watts examines significant events like the Punic Wars and structural shifts from Republic to Empire, while also tackling themes of elite corruption and identity continuity through centuries, including the Byzantine perspective.

Dr. Michael Hudson, an acclaimed economist and president of the Institute for the Study of Long-Term Economic Trends, discusses the fascinating economic systems of the ancient Near East. He reveals how temples created early forms of money and managed debt through innovative accounting practices. Hudson highlights how debt cancellations were vital for societal stability and describes the complex interplay between temples, palaces, and urbanization. His insights challenge modern economic theories, emphasizing lessons from history that could inform today's policymakers.