Philosophy For Our Times

Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes, a philosopher specializing in mind and metaphysics, dives into the concept of timelessness and its relation to mysticism and psychedelics. He explores how our perception of time can shift in extreme situations, and discusses Spinoza's ideas on eternal existence. The conversation highlights the tension between time's abstract nature and subjective experience, including the potential of psychedelics to unlock insights about the eternal. Sjöstedt-Hughes also addresses the implications of these ideas on our understanding of reality and existence.

Join notable guests Abby Innes, an LSE political economy professor, Hilary Lawson, a philosopher known for his theory of closure, and Robin van den Akker, a cultural theorist exploring metamodernism. They delve into the implications of postmodernism, critiquing neoliberal economics and its societal impacts. Explore metamodernism as a response to post-truth chaos, and consider how epistemic closures can reshape our understanding of knowledge and reality. The conversation emphasizes the risks of seeking absolute truths while advocating for more nuanced, practical frameworks.

Alenka Zupančič, a Slovenian Lacanian philosopher and collaborator of Slavoj Žižek, dives into the intriguing interplay between AI and our unconscious psyche. She critiques ChatGPT as an embodiment of collective discourse that stifles individuality while also examining how it operates like a Lacanian 'big other.' Zupančič explores the implications of AI-generated irony, the dangers of a pervasive unsubjective AI, and how this reflects a societal shift, normalizing absurd political ideas through its mimicry—transforming how we perceive and engage with language.

Kehinde Andrews, the UK's first professor of Black Studies, critiques the Enlightenment for its intrinsic racism and colonial roots. He argues that Enlightenment ideas of universal rationality are deeply entwined with structures of colonial violence. Andrews believes we should shift our focus from traditional Western thinkers to Black studies and voices like Malcolm X. He emphasizes the need for systemic change over individual reform to address racism and suggests building alternative institutions to create a more equitable future.

Massimo Pigliucci, a philosopher and evolutionary biologist, explores how ancient philosophy can guide modern living. He discusses the essence of eudaimonia, contrasting pleasure and virtue through the lens of Greco-Roman thought. The dialogue highlights the Cynics' unique freedom and authentic expression, revealing how they defied societal norms. Pigliucci also emphasizes the importance of character, critical doubt, and personal purpose as key ingredients for a fulfilling life, connecting these ancient insights with contemporary psychological perspectives.

In this enlightening discussion, Eileen Hall, a creative director and environmental advocate, teams up with James Rucker, a consultant psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders. They explore the potential of psychedelics in mental health treatment and how these substances might reveal profound insights into reality. Delving into cultural perspectives, they contrast Western views on mental illness with Ecuadorian communal practices. The conversation challenges listeners to reconsider the nature of delusion and the transformative power of altered consciousness.

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.