PlasticPills - Philosophy & Critical Theory Podcast

Richard Ledes, director of the films Adieu Lacan and V13, explains his process, namely, adapting French plays about psychoanalysis into English-language films. He connects the seduction of nascent fascism in 1913 Vienna to the present moment a century later.Find V13 on AppleTV, Prime VideoFind Ledes' catalogue at https://www.richardledes.com/Always more content at https://www.patreon.com/plasticpills

The discussion explores Lacan's structural definition of perversion and distinguishes it from common sexual fetishes. A fascinating case study highlights ritualistic behavior with barbers, and the hosts delve into the complexities of sadism and masochism. They analyze how family dynamics shape perverse structures and provide insights into disavowal versus repression. Controversial figures like Trump are examined through a perverse lens, while literary references like de Sade add depth. The episode wraps up with a comparison of neurotics, psychotics, and perverts.

Dive into the phenomenon of chatbot psychosis through a Lacanian lens. The hosts explore how AI-driven delusions mirror Lacan's clinical structures of psychosis. They discuss chilling cases of AI-fueled spiritual fantasies and highlight the differences between chatbot interactions and psychoanalytic practice. Can chatbots really trigger deep-seated vulnerabilities? Insights on whether they can provoke existing delusions are revealed. Join in for a thought-provoking analysis that challenges perceptions of AI's impact on mental health.

1Dime, the mind behind the One Dime YouTube channel and radio show, dives deep into Mark Fisher's concept of Capitalist Realism. They discuss how societal complacency is fostered through interpassivity and the role media plays in this dynamic. The conversation unveils the struggles to envision alternatives to capitalism, particularly in the context of youth experiences and housing crises. Plus, they explore the complex interplay of capitalism with labor, family structures, and the challenges local governance faces in effecting real change.

Dive into the world of Lacanian psychoanalysis and its relevance to contemporary political beliefs. Explore the intricate relationship between language and intention, using current events as a backdrop. Discover how Freudian slips reveal deeper motivations in discourse. The discussion unravels the distinction between conscious ego and the unconscious 'other,' showcasing how our speech can betray our true selves. It’s a captivating blend of philosophy, psychology, and critical analysis that resonates profoundly in today’s society.

The conversation delves into Peter Thiel's alarming views on technology stagnation and apocalyptic themes, critiquing the cultural impact of figures like Charles Manson. It navigates ideological clashes in Europe, from environmentalism to transhumanism, while questioning the intersections of religion and capitalism. The hosts explore the tensions between Calvinism and free will, emphasizing moral responsibility. They also examine how neoliberalism distorts Christianity and uncover the complex relationship between wealth, power, and societal control.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on public media portrayals of high-profile cases like Epstein and geopolitical conflicts such as Gaza. Explore Agamben's compelling ideas on sovereignty, bare life, and states of exception. The conversation satirizes the absurdities within political narratives while scrutinizing the evolving dynamics of the right wing. Delve into ethics in governance, biopolitics, and the balance of power, challenging listeners to reconsider the complexities of modern political structures.

1Dime Tony, a political theorist known for his unique insights on contemporary issues, joins the discussion to explore the notion of the 'woke right.' He dissects how the term 'woke' has evolved from its origins in Black activism to a broad political label, often misused by right-wing commentators. The conversation digs into the shifting paradigms from class to culture in American politics, and the internal conflicts within both left and right factions, revealing the complexities of identity politics and the challenges of language in today's discourse.

Delve into Derrida's critique of metaphysical thinking, where he argues that metaphors are often hidden in philosophy's discourse. Discover the sun's role as a metaphor for truth and reason, challenging traditional understandings. The dialogue navigates Derrida's connections to Heidegger and critiques the evolution of meaning through metaphors. Explore how language transforms experiences into abstract concepts, revealing the complexities and disconnections in philosophical language.

We go deeper into Maurice Merleau-Ponty's insights in The Visible and The Invisible, e.g. The Flesh of the World, the Chiasm, and the Intertwining and what these mean for a meditative experience on the daily. Get the full episode and tons of others at https://www.patreon.com/plasticpills