Philosophy For Our Times

Philosopher Peter van Inwagen, a leading mind in metaphysics and the philosophy of religion, dives into the perplexing nature of 'nothingness'. He tackles the bold question of why anything exists at all, referencing Leibniz’s famous inquiry. The discussion unfolds around the intricate relationship between existence and nonexistence, prompting listeners to reflect on necessary versus contingent propositions. Van Inwagen critiques the limitations of both physics and philosophy in fully addressing the essence of being.

Join neuroscientist Patrick Haggard, philosopher Jennifer Hornsby, and physicist George Ellis as they tackle the age-old question: is free will just an illusion? Haggard dives into the neuroscience behind voluntary action, questioning how our brains initiate choices. Ellis brings in a cosmological perspective, while Hornsby challenges conventional views of moral responsibility. They explore how cultural influences shape our decisions and examine the implications of free will—or lack thereof—on society. A thought-provoking discussion that will make you rethink your own choices!

In this engaging discussion, Slavoj Žižek, a world-renowned philosopher and cultural critic, takes on pressing contemporary issues. He argues that while the world seems bleak, hope is not lost. Žižek analyzes Trump’s impact on leftist perspectives, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the dangerous role of shame in authoritarianism. He emphasizes the importance of political identity and suggests that humor and literary interpretation can unveil deeper societal truths. Expect a mix of seriousness and wit as Žižek navigates the absurdities of our times.

James Tartaglia, a Professor of Metaphysical Philosophy at Keele University, dives into how video games alter our perception of reality. He discusses their evolution into respected art forms and their intense engagement akin to sports. Tartaglia connects gaming to philosophical themes of meaning and creativity, critiquing materialism while exploring the role of game developers as modern creators. Plus, he reflects on the unique challenges in speedrunning, revealing deeper insights into human fulfillment and the quest for purpose in a digital world.

Emrah Atasoy, a lecturer at the University of Warwick, dives into the philosophical depths of classic literature. He unpacks the tension between utopia and dystopia as seen in Orwell's '1984' and Huxley's 'Brave New World,' urging critical thinking in today's world. Atasoy contrasts Dostoevsky's religious fervor with Tolstoy's practical morality, exploring their implications on faith. He also examines Nabokov's 'Lolita,' revealing moral complexities and the conflicts between autonomy and societal norms, while touching on Lispector's transformative views on identity.

In this conversation, Peter Godfrey-Smith, a philosopher of science and expert on consciousness, explores how different species, especially octopuses, inform our understanding of the mind. He emphasizes that consciousness is not a sudden leap but a gradual evolution marked by complex sensory interactions. The discussion covers animal ethics, the limits of physicalism, and the unique cognitive abilities of octopuses, such as tool use. Godfrey-Smith argues that studying these fascinating creatures reshapes our perception of consciousness across the animal kingdom.

Join psychologist Paul Bloom, a renowned expert on morality and human behavior, as he delves into the elusive nature of utopia. He argues that human nature, with its inherent desires for status and complexity of morality, makes perfect societies unattainable. Bloom explores the paradox of striving for equality while battling our darker instincts and the happiness treadmill. With insights from history and real-life examples, he challenges listeners to reconsider the viability of utopian ideals amid the realities of human relationships.

Barry Schwartz, an influential psychologist and author of 'The Paradox of Choice', delves into the complexities of decision-making in an age of overwhelming options. He reveals how more choices can lead to dissatisfaction and choice paralysis, particularly affecting mental health among younger generations. Schwartz discusses the pursuit of perfection, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey over unattainable goals. He suggests embracing 'good enough' solutions and critiques how dating apps can hinder genuine connections, all while questioning our societal standards.

In this enlightening discussion, Iain McGilchrist, a philosopher and neuroscientist; Beatrix Campbell, a socialist and feminist writer; and Simon Blackburn, a prominent philosopher, explore the limitations of logic in our lives. They argue that embracing irrationality can lead to a richer understanding of human experience. The conversation highlights how over-reliance on rationality can obscure personal growth and the complexities of human relationships. They assert that meaningful connections and embracing uncertainty are essential for true happiness.

Antonio Damasio, an award-winning neuroscientist, challenges the traditional view that consciousness is solely a mental phenomenon. He argues that feelings, previously seen as secondary, are foundational to consciousness and deeply linked to our bodily experiences. Damasio delves into the biological origins of consciousness, emphasizing that homeostatic feelings serve as crucial survival signals. His insights aim to bridge the philosophical divide between mind and body, re-envisioning our understanding of what it means to be conscious.