Philosophy For Our Times

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.

Slavoj Žižek questions pursuit of happiness, explores surplus enjoyment. Examines pleasure, renunciation, power dynamics in sexuality. Discusses sacrificing decency for greater good. Explores false joy, desire complexities, love ethics. Contrasts Buddhist, psychoanalytic views on love, promotes ethics of exception.

Philosopher Sophie-Grace Chappell explores how epiphanies should guide our actions, advocating for a holistic approach in moral theory. She discusses the impact of embodiment in ethical experiences and how encounters with nature can shape our values. Reflecting on the transformative power of nature, she emphasizes the importance of simplifying life to embrace profound realizations.

Philosopher Sophie Grace Chappell advocates for allowing epiphanies to guide our actions, challenging the reliance on reason. She explores the impact of personal reflections on ethics post-trauma and the influence of ethical experiences on our moral development. The podcast delves into the significance of epiphanies and peak experiences, highlighting different forms and historical examples. Additionally, it discusses creating a mindset conducive to experiencing profound realizations through inner calm and mindfulness.

Leading philosophers in science and metaphysics, including Michael Della Rocca and Timothy Maudlin, debate the boundaries of common sense in philosophy. They discuss Parmenides' monistic view, interconnectedness in reality, the objectivity of distinctions, and the simplicity of metaphysical explanations. The conversation explores ataraxia in skepticism, the fear of giving up realist metaphysics, and the intersection of physics, ethics, and metaphysics.

Award-winning science historian Jimena Canales joins the podcast to discuss the concept of 'demons' in science, the process of discovery, and the nature of the unknown. She explores the essence of scientific discovery, the role of imaginary entities in science, the importance of creativity in scientific endeavors, and the fascination with historical scientific eras.

Join post-realist philosopher Hilary Lawson, professor of logic Michael Potter, and philosopher of language John Searle as they debate the impact of philosophy's linguistic turn. They delve into language's role in shaping reality, exploring whether it hinders our understanding or enhances it. From analyzing sentences about non-existent objects to discussing the uniqueness of human language, this podcast challenges traditional perceptions of language in philosophy.

Renowned experts Carol Gilligan, Katarzyna de Lazari-Radek, and Richard Wrangham debate the dangers of altruism. They discuss the negative consequences of unchecked selflessness, question the binary view of self-interest versus benefiting others, and explore the importance of cultivating good relationships for a better future.

Physicist and philosopher Avshalom Elitzur discusses the challenges of understanding consciousness in science, the limitations of science in capturing subjective experiences, the role of consciousness in machines and entities, various philosophical perspectives on consciousness, and the intersection between quantum mechanics, physics, and human attributes.