Philosophy For Our Times

Join Josh Cohen, a psychoanalyst and professor of literature; Barbara Tversky, a psychological expert on memory and creativity; and Edward Harcourt, an Oxford philosopher who studies consciousness, as they delve into the labyrinth of the unconscious mind. They discuss how unconscious motivations drive compulsive behaviors, the significance of emotional wounds in therapy, and the complexities of human desires. This lively conversation challenges the listener to consider the role of the unconscious in shaping identity and personal growth.

Robert Lawrence Kuhn, co-creator and executive producer of 'Closer To Truth', joins post-realist philosopher Hilary Lawson to tackle the enigma of consciousness. They explore over 200 theories, from dualism to materialism, revealing the rich tapestry of thought that surrounds this elusive topic. The conversation dives into personal journeys and the intersection of consciousness with quantum physics. They highlight the enduring mystery of how subjective experiences connect with neural processes, challenging our understanding of mind and matter.

Join Matthew Johnson, a celebrated psychiatry professor at Johns Hopkins, Shayla Love, a keen freelance science reporter, and Kevin Sabet, a drug policy expert, as they dive into the psychedelic renaissance. They explore whether substances like LSD and psilocybin can truly revolutionize mental health treatment. The discussion highlights the importance of subjective experiences over mere biochemistry, the risks of commercialization, and systemic inequities in mental health care access. Can psychedelics fulfill their promise, or is the hype too great?

Jessica Frazier, a Professor of Theology at Trinity College, Oxford, and expert on Hindu studies, dives into the intriguing notion that our perception of separation is an illusion. She explores Indian monism, suggesting that recognizing our interconnectedness can free us from isolation and foster a deeper connection to the universe. Frazier also discusses how this perspective can reshape our identity and expand our understanding of reality, emphasizing the importance of exploring diverse philosophical traditions to enrich our thinking.

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.