Aporia Podcast

Nigel Biggar, an Anglican priest and former professor of theology at Oxford, dives deep into the complexities of colonialism. He differentiates between imperialism and colonialism, highlighting the unique aspects of British rule in India. Biggar also addresses the dual legacy of the British Empire, recognizing both its humanitarian contributions and darker histories like slavery. Moreover, he examines the changing motivations behind British expansion, revealing a shift from purely economic interests to a more humanitarian impulse, reshaping how we view decolonization.

Join Davide Piffer, an evolutionary anthropologist known for his work on genetic differences and IQ, as he delves into the intriguing world of polygenic scores. He tackles the complexities and controversies surrounding genetic research, particularly regarding intelligence and educational outcomes among various ethnic groups. The discussion also highlights the biases in existing studies, especially those focused on European populations, and examines how environmental factors like nutrition shape intelligence alongside genetic influences.

Sasha Gusev's critique of hereditarianism ignites a fiery discussion on genetic factors and intelligence. The debate touches on the complex relationship between genetics and environmental influences, challenging assumptions about innate superiority. Engaging analogies highlight how external support shapes cognitive outcomes. The conversation delves into the scientific validity of claims about IQ disparities among racial groups while addressing the dangers of conflating genetics with stereotypes. Intellectual dishonesty and contentious assertions are scrutinized, revealing deeper societal implications.

J. Michael Bailey, a pioneering sex researcher renowned for his studies on sexual orientation and transgenderism, delves into the complexities of gender dysphoria. He highlights the evolving language surrounding LGBTQ+ identities and discusses the contentious concept of autogynephilia. The conversation touches on the nuanced differences between types of transgender individuals and emphasizes the importance of empirical truths in understanding sexuality. Amid societal challenges, Bailey advocates for free speech in academia while navigating sensitive topics with care and insight.

Watch or listen to the full thing at AporiaMagazine.com

Dive into the thrilling world of heterodoxy as the discussion uncovers its role in social sciences. Explore the tug-of-war between orthodox beliefs and brave new ideas, with real-world implications. The conversation takes a sharp turn into academia’s sociopolitical dynamics, highlighting student activism and the push against cancel culture. Envision the delicate art of planning a heterodox conference, balancing ideological diversity with the risks of controversial topics. It's a thought-provoking exploration of freedom in academic discourse!

In this conversation, psychologist Paul Bloom, a professor at the University of Toronto, dives deep into the intricacies of modern identity and well-being. He discusses how social media significantly affects mental health and the challenges youth face with evolving gender norms. Bloom shares personal stories about fostering open discussions in education amid cultural controversies. He also examines family dynamics and the role of teasing in resilience, alongside the antinatalist versus pronatalist debate that resonates with millennials today.

In this engaging discussion, cognitive scientist Steven Pinker dives into the benefits of modernity, asserting that economic development fosters societal well-being. He explores the complex relationship between environmental challenges and economic growth, advocating for clean energy. Pinker also emphasizes the delicate balance of collective solidarity and individual freedoms, warning against the dangers of excessive conformity. Finally, he examines how AI and automation can enhance human purpose, challenging fears about the future of work.

Watch or listen to the full thing at AporiaMagazine.com

Emil Kirkegaard, a socio-geneticist known for his research on stereotype accuracy, sheds light on the complex interplay between stereotypes and reality. He investigates how stereotypes can reflect actual group averages rather than merely negative assumptions. The discussion includes a deep dive into gender representation in various professions and how public perceptions often align with statistics, challenging the belief that stereotypes are always exaggerated. Kirkegaard also critiques the media's role in shaping these perceptions and the implications for individual performance.