Philosophy For Our Times

Join philosophers Subrena Smith and Paul Bloom as they dive into the complex relationship between rationality and intuition. Smith critiques evolutionary psychology's reliance on reason, while Bloom defends rationality's crucial role. They explore how consciousness interacts with various cognitive states, including flow experiences during peak performance. The discussion raises thought-provoking questions about balancing rational thought with personal narratives and emotional insights, especially in relation to societal decision-making.

Peter Singer, a renowned philosopher and bioethics professor at Princeton, delves into the quest for objective morality. He challenges the idea that moral truths rely solely on intuitions or religion, arguing for a rational foundation in ethical decisions. The conversation touches on complex issues like abortion and euthanasia, emphasizing the necessity of critical reflection. Singer also addresses the resilience of the Effective Altruism movement, suggesting that despite controversies, a committed community remains dedicated to its philanthropic goals.

Omedi Ochieng, a communication expert specializing in the rhetoric of philosophy, and Katrin Flikschuh, a political theory professor at the LSE, delve into the rich landscape of African philosophy. They explore how communalism shapes identity and the collective's role in individual flourishing. Wisdom from ancient thinkers is discussed, offering fresh views on the good life. Their critique of Western stereotypes reveals a vibrant tradition rich in ethical and political thought. They advocate for deeper engagement with African insights to foster a more interconnected understanding of humanity.

Join Peter Singer, a leading moral philosopher, along with Dale Turner, an expert in Indigenous politics, Tommy J. Curry, a scholar on Black male studies, and Janne Teller, a celebrated writer. They tackle the uncomfortable histories behind Thanksgiving, highlighting the stark inequalities faced by Indigenous peoples in land ownership. The discussion critiques universal property rights, explores the ethical necessity of returning land, and challenges Eurocentric legal interpretations. This thought-provoking dialogue invites listeners to reconsider justice and ownership in a complex world.

Ben Ware, Co-Director of the Centre for Philosophy and Art at King’s College London, delves into the profound themes of extinction and renewal. He explores how acknowledging our potential demise can add depth to our lives. Discussing philosophical giants from Kant to modern thinkers, he connects literary insights with today's climate crises. He also tackles antinatalism, questioning the ethics of procreation amidst suffering. Ultimately, Ware argues that confronting the end can inspire new beginnings and philosophical transformation.

Fiona Ellis, a Professor of Philosophy and Religion at the University of Roehampton and former president of the British Society for Philosophy of Religion, explores the interplay between the natural and supernatural realms. She discusses the metaphysics of naturalism, emphasizing love and desire in our search for meaning. The conversation contrasts transcendentalism and immanentism, proposing an expanded naturalism that values immediate human experiences. Using the myth of Sisyphus, Ellis highlights how personal desires infuse significance into life's inherent void.

Fiona Ellis, a Professor of Philosophy and Religion at the University of Roehampton, dives into the intricate relationship between naturalism and the supernatural. She challenges the abandonment of the supernatural, proposing a middle ground that incorporates moral phenomena. Ellis critiques traditional views of God, suggesting they often reflect human biases. She emphasizes that while science is vital, it cannot fully explain existence, spotlighting the importance of human experiences like morality and love as independent from supernatural beliefs.

Stuart Hameroff, a Professor at the University of Arizona and a pioneer in consciousness research, argues that consciousness predates life itself. He dives into the role of quantum mechanics and neural microtubules in shaping our understanding of consciousness. The conversation challenges traditional definitions of life, linking them to quantum properties. Hameroff also raises fascinating questions about extraterrestrial life, suggesting that consciousness might emerge from the cosmos before biological existence.

Noël Carroll, a leading figure in philosophy of art, joins David Livingstone Smith, an expert on self-deception and moral psychology, and historian Thomas Laqueur, known for his works on gender, to explore the allure of horror. They discuss why monsters evoke fear and what they symbolize about human emotions. The conversation dives into the cultural significance of graveyards in preserving memory and the haunting impact of societal dehumanization. Rituals surrounding death from various cultures reveal a fascinating blend of the secular and sacred.

Join Paul Bloom, a renowned psychologist and author, as he delves into our darker impulses. He explores the allure of morally questionable behaviors through the lens of St. Augustine, revealing how perverse acts can stem from deeper desires. Bloom elaborates on the paradox where irrational decisions may offer unexpected advantages, and he connects the idea of perversity to rebellion against societal norms. With captivating examples from culture and voting behavior, he challenges traditional notions of morality and highlights the complexity of human choices.