Philosophy For Our Times

Join philosopher David Chalmers, explorer Ed Stafford, and novelist Joanna Kavenna as they delve into the concept of 'self.' Chalmers analyzes consciousness while Stafford shares his personal tales from isolation, highlighting the effects on identity. Kavenna challenges Western notions, bringing in Aboriginal wisdom to underscore a holistic understanding of self. Together, they explore how personal experiences and social contexts shape our identities, ultimately questioning the relevance of the 'self' in today’s world.

Join Sean Carroll, a renowned physicist and podcast host, Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist and mindfulness expert, and Tamar Gendler, Yale’s philosophy dean. They dive into the limits of science in addressing consciousness. The trio debates how our language shapes reality and influences perceptions, particularly around mental experiences and chronic conditions. They tackle the dualism versus monism debate, questioning if materialism can truly capture the essence of our thoughts and feelings, all while pondering the profound connection between mind and body.

Ben Ware, Co-Director of the Centre for Philosophy and Art at King’s College London, dives into the weighty topic of extinction. He explores historical and philosophical reflections on our existential threats, from climate change to pandemics. The discussion touches on antinatalism and its critiques, questioning the ethics of procreation amidst ecological declines. Ware urges listeners to rethink their responsibility towards nature and find hope in the potential for new beginnings, even when facing despair.

Join Sean Carroll, a physicist and cosmologist from Johns Hopkins, Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist known for her work on mindfulness, and Tamar Gendler, Yale's philosophy and cognitive science expert, as they dive deep into the enigma of consciousness. They challenge if science can ever truly unravel subjective experience and explore the philosophical nuances of materialism and dualism. The discussion also tackles external world skepticism and the fascinating mind-body connection, highlighting how evolving insights can impact our understanding of reality.

In this engaging conversation, Slavoj Žižek, a Slovenian Marxist-Lacanian philosopher, explores the intricate relationship between atheism and faith. He dives into the concept of the 'big Other' and its profound effect on our understanding of desire and identity. Žižek provocatively links human desire to notions of hell, while positing that a lack of desire might lead to a state of heavenly bliss. He also tackles the chaotic implications of alienation and ecological crises, tying existential musings to real-world challenges like global warming.

Slavoj Žižek, a provocative Slovenian philosopher, dives deep into the chaotic modern world, tackling the intricate relationship between self, freedom, and democracy. He explores how quantum mechanics reshapes our perception of reality and free will, juxtaposing views from Einstein and Bohr. Žižek also unpacks Pascal's Wager, linking belief, morality, and capitalism in ways that challenge conventional thinking. His unique blend of humor and radical thought sparks engaging reflections on ideology and individual commitment.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Iain Mcgilchrist, a prominent neuroscientist and philosopher, joins Nobel laureate Roger Penrose and postmodern sociologist Steve Fuller to explore the elusive nature of consciousness. They dissect whether consciousness exists outside of human thought and its relationship to knowledge and experience. The trio delves into Gödel's theorem, the quantum potential of microtubules, and the impact of technology on our understanding of consciousness. Join them as they navigate the complex intersection of physics, philosophy, and human existence.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Iain Mcgilchrist, a prominent neuroscientist and philosopher, joins Nobel laureate Roger Penrose, a mathematical physicist, and postmodern sociologist Steve Fuller. They dive into the elusive nature of consciousness, exploring its potential quantum links and challenging traditional views. Topics include shared consciousness, the mind-body connection, and the historical context of consciousness across various entities, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for all.

Join Slavoj Žižek, the Slovenian Marxist-Lacanian philosopher known for his sharp wit, as he navigates the perplexing realm of quantum physics. He challenges traditional ideas of determinism and reality, urging a reconsideration of how we interpret complex phenomena. Žižek critiques the cinematic portrayals of quantum mechanics, notably in 'Everything Everywhere All At Once,' highlighting misconceptions. Delve into fascinating discussions on wave function collapse and the nature of observation, revealing the intricate dance between science and philosophy.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Slavoj Žižek, a Slovenian Marxist-Lacanian philosopher, tackles the chaotic state of contemporary society. He delves into capitalism's evolution and the alarming rise of digital feudalism, particularly spotlighting the implications of Elon Musk's Twitter takeover. Žižek also reflects on societal repression, exploring its intersection with homophobia in military contexts. Through his sharp wit and radical insights, he analyses how artistic expression can challenge entrenched cultural norms and foster understanding.