Conversations with Tyler

Kwame Anthony Appiah, a philosophy professor at NYU and a cosmopolitan thinker, discusses his unique upbringing, emphasizing the blend of local and global identities. He explores Ghana's political evolution, the complexities of nationalism versus cosmopolitanism, and the ethical dilemmas of cultural heritage. Appiah also shares personal anecdotes, from sheep farming in New Jersey to chairing the Booker Prize, and reflects on the significance of openness in personal growth and the joys of literary exploration.

Neal Stephenson, a speculative fiction author celebrated for his visionary tech depictions, joins the conversation to explore a variety of captivating topics. He discusses his latest novel, which delves into the implications of digital afterlives. The conversation shifts to the future of surveillance technologies and their impact on privacy, plus the challenges of media fragmentation in shaping our reality. With humor, he critiques cryptocurrencies while pondering the societal implications of innovation starvation, drawing from history and personal experiences to enrich storytelling.

In this enlightening discussion, Eric Kaufmann, a political scientist from Birkbeck College, explores the complexities of identity shaped by his multicultural upbringing. He delves into the impact of demographic changes on political landscapes, dissecting Brexit and Trump. Kaufmann shares intriguing insights on the Amish's unique growth and the stability of Portugal against populism. The conversation ranges from the nostalgic Orangeism in Northern Ireland to innovative ideas on rebuilding Notre Dame, all while questioning the future of national identity and community dynamics.

Hal Varian, Chief Economist at Google and emeritus professor at Berkeley, dives into the evolution of economics in the digital age. He discusses how online shopping has transformed consumer behavior and pricing strategies. Varian analyzes the challenges and opportunities of prediction markets and second-priced auctions. He also touches on the complexities of spam and internet governance. Additionally, he offers insights into the shifting landscape of antitrust laws and the unique economic contrasts between various regions and platforms.

In this engaging discussion, Russ Roberts, a research fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution and host of EconTalk, delves into the virtues of forgiveness and the potential manipulation of data. He explores the complexities of prayer, the motivations behind behaviors, and the effects of a volunteer army on wartime incentives. The conversation also touches on the shortcomings of classical liberalism, the relevance of behavioral economics, and how religious texts can inform economic principles. Expect insights sprinkled with humor and personal anecdotes!

Ezekiel Emanuel, a physician and bioethicist renowned for his insights on healthcare policy, shares thought-provoking views on the evolving landscape of medicine. He discusses the vital role of emotional intelligence in patient care and critiques the traditional medical education system. Emanuel delves into ethical dilemmas surrounding cancer treatments and the paradox of immortality, pondering if eternal life could lead to boredom. He also addresses the complexities of healthcare costs and the curious scarcity of fine dining in affluent areas, blending personal anecdotes with impactful societal observations.

Karl Ove Knausgård, a celebrated Norwegian author, dives into the quest for total freedom in writing. He discusses the essence of mimesis and its role in storytelling, reflecting on personal experiences that shape artistic expression. Knausgård shares insights from Ingmar Bergman’s workbooks and the parenting boost to his productivity. The conversation traverses themes of literature's intersection with anxiety, as embodied in Edvard Munch's 'The Scream', while exploring identity, cultural heritage, and the sanctity of autobiographical writing.

Margaret Atwood, the acclaimed Canadian author known for works like 'The Handmaid's Tale,' shares her sharp wit and insights in a captivating conversation. She humorously defines Canadian humor while reflecting on the vastness of Canada. Atwood dives into topics like the impact of social media on literature, feminism in the arts, and the Future Library project, emphasizing the importance of preserving writing for future generations. She also touches on her creative process, the significance of place in storytelling, and her thoughts on free speech.

Neuroscientist Ed Boyden from MIT, known for his groundbreaking work in optogenetics and brain research, dives deep into the mysteries of the mind. He discusses innovative brain mapping techniques and the ethical implications of new neurotechnologies. Boyden explores the interplay between the brain, body, and gut, revealing surprising connections to mental health. With insights on consciousness and creativity, he questions whether consciousness is an illusion or fundamental to the universe. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges our understanding of the brain.

Emily Wilson, a Professor of Classical Studies at the University of Pennsylvania and renowned translator of Homer's works, dives into the challenges of translating ancient texts. She discusses quirky translation difficulties, like the lack of onomatopoeic words in English for chaotic sounds. The conversation touches on Stoicism's charm for Silicon Valley, the gender dynamics in academia, and her struggle with translating the Iliad after the Odyssey. With a big Ikea desk and a giant orange cat, she emphasizes the art of literary translation and the importance of inclusive classics education.