The Dissenter

Kristen Ghodsee, an award-winning author and University of Pennsylvania professor, navigates the concept of 'Everyday Utopia.' She challenges traditional family structures, proposing that reimagining these dynamics can enhance well-being. Ghodsee compares modern life under capitalism to hunter-gatherer societies, advocating for community solutions. The conversation also explores historical utopian ideals, innovations in family and education, and critiques societal structures, emphasizing the potential of grassroots movements to create sustainable living environments.

Adam Bode, an interdisciplinary researcher in romantic love and human mating, dives deep into the complexities of love. He distinguishes romantic love from companionate love, revealing its evolutionary roots tied to mother-infant bonding. The discussion uncovers fascinating biological mechanisms at play, supported by neuroimaging studies. Bode also examines the influence of cultural norms on various human mating systems and the intricate dynamics of love, emphasizing the need for more research into the transition from romantic love to marriage.

Scott Hershovitz, the Thomas G. and Mabel Long Professor of Law and Philosophy at the University of Michigan, dives deep into the transformation of law as a moral practice. He explores the intricate connection between law and morality, challenging conventional views. Through philosophical debates on legal indeterminacy, he highlights ethical implications in the legal profession and the responsibilities of lawyers. Hershovitz also emphasizes the need for accessible philosophical ideas, particularly for children, making complex concepts more relatable.

In this engaging conversation, Ronald de Sousa, Emeritus Professor at the University of Toronto, explores the intriguing notion of amorality. He scrutinizes various moral frameworks like utilitarianism and Kantian ethics, revealing their complexities and potential pitfalls. De Sousa discusses the subjectivity of moral judgments, the dangers of moral fanaticism, and how societal conventions shape morality. Ultimately, he challenges listeners to reconsider their understanding of ethics and the implications of living in a world devoid of absolute moral truths.

In this fascinating discussion, Ian James Kidd, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Nottingham, delves into the intricacies of misanthropy. He contrasts common misanthropy with its philosophical counterpart, exploring the roots of human failings and societal vices. Kidd categorizes misanthropes into types like the activist and the quietist, examining their varied motivations. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as it considers embracing humanity's flaws while advocating for personal moral improvement amidst the backdrop of pervasive corruption.

Norbert Peeters, a teacher at Wageningen University and a PhD student specializing in wilderness philosophy, dives deep into the intriguing world of botanic philosophy. He explores plant blindness and humanity's changing views on plants, from mere resources to valued life forms. The conversation highlights contributions from Humboldt and Darwin, emphasizing their revolutionary insights in botany. Carnivorous plants also take center stage, showcasing their fascinating survival strategies. The discussion reframes wilderness, encouraging a more nuanced appreciation of plant life and its ecological importance.

Blake Roeber, a philosopher at Notre Dame specializing in epistemology, dives into the complexities of political knowledge and humility. He discusses how cognitive biases skew belief formation in our polarized climate, stressing the importance of skepticism and open dialogue. Roeber also critiques common political identities, examines the perils of echo chambers, and promotes mindfulness to broaden perspectives. His insights challenge listeners to recognize the limits of their knowledge and engage more thoughtfully with political issues.

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin, dives into the complexities of free will and decision-making. He explores the biological foundations of our choices, the role of heuristics, and how our genes may influence behavior. The conversation challenges deterministic views, emphasizing that even single-celled organisms exhibit agency. Additionally, they tackle the ethical implications of human embryo editing, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of genetics and its impact on our lives.

Celebrate a significant milestone of seven and a half years in the realm of engaging interviews with thought leaders! The host shares heartfelt gratitude for the loyal audience and emphasizes the importance of achieving a monthly support goal of $920 on Patreon. With just $80 left to reach this target, listeners are encouraged to join and explore the benefits of membership. This fundraising push aims to ensure the sustainability of the channel, allowing for even more enlightening conversations in the future!

Alan Love, a distinguished philosopher and evolutionary developmental biologist, dives deep into the intricate connections between development and evolution. He discusses how developmental biology generates variations that evolution acts upon, while exploring new perspectives like evo-devo and epigenetics. Love highlights niche construction theory, revealing how organisms shape their own evolutionary paths. He also addresses the challenges of the extended evolutionary synthesis and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration in future research to unravel these complex dynamics.