The Dissenter

Christopher Hoyt, an Associate Professor at Western Carolina University, dives into Wittgenstein's philosophy, exploring its ties to the philosophy of mind and religion. He discusses the significance of rituals and language games in shaping belief systems, emphasizing the nuanced understanding of religious dogma. The conversation also probes the cognitive science of religion, including evolutionary theories and their impacts on faith. Hoyt advocates for collaboration between Wittgensteinians and cognitive scientists to deepen insights into human cognition and spirituality.

Marc Steen, a senior research scientist at TNO and expert in Human-Centred Design, delves into the ethics of technology. He introduces a three-step approach for ethical reflection crucial for tech professionals. The discussion challenges traditional views on value in tech, critiques big tech’s alignment with societal interests, and tackles the complexities of ethical dilemmas like the trolley problem. Steen emphasizes the need for responsibility and proposes structured frameworks to foster informed discussions on technology's impact on society.

Daniel Hoyer, a prominent researcher in cliodynamics and author of "Figuring Out The Past," dives into the intriguing intersection of data and history. He discusses how mathematical frameworks can explain societal patterns and the recurring themes in historical events. Hoyer explores the roots of inequality and the concept of elite overproduction, questioning whether these issues are inevitable. He also sheds light on the phenomenon of polycrisis, urging the need for a deeper understanding of interconnected global challenges to foster social equity and prevent unrest.

The host celebrates a remarkable seven-year journey of podcasting, showcasing gratitude towards guests and supporters. They emphasize the critical role of financial backing for sustainability and highlight their goal of reaching $1,000 per month on Patreon. Additionally, various support options are discussed, illustrating how listeners can contribute to the channel while enjoying exclusive benefits.

Elena Ziliotti, an Assistant Professor of Ethics and Political Philosophy at Delft University, explores the intricate world of meritocratic democracy. She delves into the contrasts between Western and Confucian political theories, shedding light on how diverse cultural perspectives reshape governance. Ziliotti discusses the declining role of political parties and the impact of individual leaders. She advocates for innovative approaches to political leadership, emphasizing the need for cross-cultural dialogues to enrich democratic practices globally.

Michael Axelrod, Director of the Human Development Center and a Professor of Psychology, dives into the world of school psychology and its vulnerabilities to pseudoscience. He discusses the misconceptions around child behaviors and critiques outdated practices like zero-tolerance policies. Axelrod highlights the complexities of IQ tests and challenges the effectiveness of programs like DARE. Emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches, he advocates for reforms to better support at-risk students and improve educational methodologies.

Kathryn Nave, an early career research fellow at the University of Edinburgh, dives deep into autonomy and agency in living systems. The discussion kicks off with enactivism, reinterpreting cognition as active engagement rather than mere thought. Nave explains the Free Energy Principle, linking energy, goals, and survival in living beings. She also contrasts living agents with machines, highlighting goal-directed behaviors even in simple organisms. Ultimately, the conversation uncovers complex interactions between perception, action, and the environment.

Victoria Dougherty, an acclaimed author known for her explorations of love, death, and destiny, delves into the emotional intricacies of storytelling. She discusses the nuanced portrayal of intersex characters and the challenge of authentic narratives. The conversation highlights the power of honest communication in relationships and the art of crafting satisfying conclusions in fairy tales. Dougherty also examines the unique blend of prose and visuals in storytelling, while reflecting on the impact of tragedy and resilience in character development.

Avgi Saketopoulou, a NYC psychoanalyst and faculty at NYU, dives deep into complex topics from her book. She explores the psychoanalytic framework of Jean Laplanche, offering insights into trauma and sexuality, including 'traumatophobia' and 'traumatophilia.' The discussion unpacks the nuances of consent, questioning its limitations in interpersonal relationships. Saketopoulou also examines racialization and identity formation, linking them to trauma and agency, while shedding light on the evolution of sadism and its implications for vulnerability and consent.

Mary Shenk, an Associate Professor at Penn State specializing in biocultural anthropology, delves into fascinating topics such as the sexual division of labor and its evolutionary roots. She challenges traditional views of gender roles, highlighting unique case studies from Bangladesh. The discussion also explores complex kinship systems and their socio-ecological influences on family dynamics. Shenk connects women's education to declining fertility rates and the impact of religion on alloparenting, revealing the intricate interplay between culture, economy, and reproductive behaviors.