Johnathan Bi

Colin Moran, an Oxford historian and fund manager at Abdiel Capital, reveals how intellectual curiosity fuels his successful investment strategies. He discusses the intriguing connection between faith and financial decisions, emphasizing the moral dimensions of investing. The conversation delves into the unique advantages of humanities graduates in finance and the importance of viewing companies as living entities. Moran also shares his unconventional journey from law school to investing, showcasing how personal experiences shape both ideas and outcomes.

Brendan McCord, co-founder of Cosmos, blends philosophy and engineering to tackle the implications of AI on society. The conversation highlights the challenges Gen Z faces in personal decision-making due to reliance on AI. They discuss the risks of centralized AI governance and the balance between technological progress and human autonomy. Brendan emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and self-guidance over blind trust in technology. The episode also critiques contemporary notions of altruism versus egoism and explores how creativity thrives in free societies.

Dive into the profound depths of Plato's Symposium, where the interplay of physical desire and spiritual connection unfolds. Discover how love evolves from mere lust to a quest for virtue. The discussion highlights the dichotomy of procreative versus non-procreative sex and its historical context. The life of Alcibiades emerges as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of ambition and desire in the philosophical journey. Engage with the intricate definitions of true love and the pursuit of knowledge in this captivating discourse.

David O’Connor, a Notre Dame professor and author of "Plato's Bedroom", brings his expertise in philosophy to unravel the complexities of modern dating. He discusses the rise of the incel movement and critiques the corporatization of relationships, emphasizing the need for genuine connections. O’Connor dives into the challenges facing women in demanding careers and the psychological effects of platforms like OnlyFans. With insights from Platonic and Catholic traditions, he explores how love and intimacy have evolved, advocating for a balance between rational and emotional understanding.

In this engaging discussion, Harvard political philosophy professor Harvey Mansfield offers insights into Machiavelli's profound impact on modern thought. The conversation delves into Machiavelli's critique of Christianity, contrasting the spiritual conquests of Christianity with the martial strength of Islam. Mansfield also explores gender dynamics within Christian teachings, the tension between political ambition and a tranquil life, and the relevance of Machiavelli's concepts like 'effectual truth' to contemporary politics, emphasizing the continuous pursuit of glory and the complexities of power.

Explore the limitations of AI in capturing the complexity of human emotion and literature. Dive into the emotional depth of traditional texts versus AI-generated work, questioning authenticity and resonance. Understand how personal experiences influence literary interpretation and the relationship between readers and authors. Discuss the role of AI in education, weighing its benefits against the risks of dependency. Finally, reflect on technology's dual impact on human connections, advocating for meaningful engagement in an increasingly digital world.

Rachana Kamtekar, a Professor of Philosophy at Cornell, delves into the intricate world of virtue, drawing from Plato, Stoicism, and Indian philosophy. She highlights the profound differences between virtue and vice, and the impact of moral choices on the soul. The discussion covers the relationship between virtue and happiness, with insights from Aristotle and the Stoics. Kamtekar also explores modern implications of ancient ethics, emphasizing how understanding virtue can inform both personal development and societal values.

Explore the psychological allure of Stoicism as a coping mechanism, and how it may limit true agency. Delve into the contradictions of historical figures like Seneca, who amassed wealth contrary to Stoic teachings. Critique the practicality of Stoic ethics and their impact on happiness, especially in light of external factors. Finally, enjoy a balanced look at Stoicism's strengths and weaknesses, revealing its potential for deep reflection and the extremes it can lead to.

Rachana Kamtekar, a Professor of Philosophy at Cornell University, delves into Plato's ethical theories in a captivating discussion. She explores the philosophical roots of self-sabotage, highlighting the tensions between knowledge, virtue, and our desires. The conversation touches on the complexities of human motivations, referencing thinkers like Freud and Nietzsche. Kamtekar emphasizes the teachability of virtue and the moral responsibilities tied to free will, ultimately illuminating the intricate dance of reason and spirit that defines our ethical lives.

Tad Brennan, a renowned scholar of ancient skepticism from Cornell, delves into the philosophy of Sextus Empiricus. He critiques dogmatic beliefs, advocating for tranquility through equanimity over absolute truths. The discussion covers the challenges of knowledge and belief justification, highlighting the complexities of distinguishing dogma from convention. Brennan also explores the art of skeptical reasoning and the implications of skepticism in addressing outrageous claims. Ultimately, he emphasizes peace of mind derived from questioning certainties.