Philosophy For Our Times

Join Slavoj Žižek, a provocative Slovenian philosopher known for his sharp wit and radical insights, as he tackles the chaos of today's world. He examines the impact of Russia's war in Ukraine, highlighting the unexpected resilience of its people and our moral responsibilities. Žižek delves into global crises, from the shadow of COVID-19 to alarming hunger levels intensified by conflict. A fascinating discussion emerges around our societal apathy amidst countless debates, revealing the urgent need for meaningful action.

Barry C. Smith, a leading philosopher and Director of the Institute of Philosophy at the University of London, explores the often-overlooked senses of taste, smell, and touch. He critiques the historical focus on sight and sound while discussing their crucial role in shaping human perception. Smith delves into the challenges AI faces in replicating human-like consciousness rooted in sensory experiences. He even applies these ideas to the philosophical dimensions of wine tasting, revealing the intricate interplay of our senses and their subjective nature.

Join provocative mathematician Eric Weinstein, award-winning physicist Becky Parker, and post-post-realist philosopher Hilary Lawson as they tackle the relevance of metaphysics in today's scientific landscape. They debate whether science has eclipsed metaphysical inquiries and discuss the importance of creativity in scientific education. The conversation highlights the allure of hands-on discovery and the need for epistemic humility while exploring contentious topics like string theory. Their insights offer a fresh take on the intersection of belief and empirical truth.

In this engaging discussion, mathematician Eric Weinstein, award-winning physicist Becky Parker, and philosopher Hilary Lawson delve into the relevance of metaphysics in today's scientific age. They debate the interplay between metaphysical views and scientific inquiry, debating frameworks like idealism and panpsychism. The conversation highlights quantum mechanics' challenge to traditional notions of reality and critiques the over-reliance on observation in understanding the universe. Ultimately, they explore whether metaphysics still holds a place in our quest for truth.

Nolen Gertz, an Associate Professor of Applied Philosophy at the University of Twente, delves into the complexities of nihilism. He discusses its historical evolution, challenging the notion that nihilism is merely a bleak outlook. Gertz highlights how understanding nihilism can enhance our engagement with technology and existential queries. He also connects Nietzsche's thoughts on nihilism to contemporary issues like societal isolation and the search for meaning in a disjointed world, encouraging listeners to rethink their perceptions of belief and knowledge.

Nolen Gertz, an Associate Professor of Applied Philosophy at the University of Twente, delves into the intriguing world of nihilism. He explores its historical roots and contemporary implications, suggesting it may not just be a bleak perspective but also a potential source of insight for modern life. Gertz discusses nihilism's portrayal in pop culture, revealing its dual nature as both destructive and liberating. He also traces the philosophical evolution of nihilism from Plato to Hume, addressing existential dilemmas in our search for truth.

Rob Boddice, an expert who challenges conventional ideas of happiness, dives deep into the complexities of well-being in our modern world. He critiques the World Happiness Report, arguing that it fails to capture true societal health. Boddice explores government happiness initiatives, questioning their sincerity and ethical implications. He highlights the corporate manipulation of happiness and its disconnection from authentic human experiences. Furthermore, he addresses the overlooked crisis of chronic pain, advocating for greater empathy and recognition of suffering in discussions of well-being.

John Vervaeke, a distinguished Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Science, tackles the pressing issue of meaning in contemporary life. He explores the loneliness crisis and its devastating effects on mental health. Vervaeke discusses how self-deception and conspiratorial thinking have surged in a post-pandemic world. He also highlights why video games often provide more fulfillment than reality, challenging societal narratives. Finally, he advocates for rich practices that blend philosophy and science to cultivate wisdom and community.

Filmmaker Mike Figgis explores the intricate representations of evil, emphasizing how contemporary narratives can shape audience perceptions. Philosopher Robert Eaglestone discusses the moral implications of portraying violence in theater and the responsibilities artists bear. Author Joanna Kavenna reflects on the evolution of shock in art, wondering if real horrors evoke deeper emotional responses compared to fictional tales. They all examine art's role in commenting on historical atrocities and its significance in our understanding of evil.

In this thought-provoking discussion, filmmaker Mike Figgis, known for his explorations of complex themes, joins philosopher Robert Eaglestone to dissect the nature of evil in contemporary society. They tackle whether art has the power to vanquish evil and how a secular culture impacts our understanding of morality. The conversation delves into the banality of evil, illustrating how everyday life intertwines with moral issues, and challenges how artists can effectively portray these subtleties in their work.