Philosophy Bites

Richard Bourke, a Professor at Cambridge and expert on Hegel, unravels the complexities of Hegel's philosophy of history. He contrasts Hegel's critical stance on the French Revolution with Kant's ideals of moral autonomy. Bourke also discusses how historical context shapes human consciousness and personhood, asserting that past societies were not simply reflections of the present. The conversation deepens with insights into normative justifications in Hegel’s thought and the relevance of his ideas in understanding freedom and moral agency throughout history.

Explore the fascinating world of animal sentience, revealing that species like lobsters and octopuses may feel pain and emotions. The discussion differentiates between sentience and consciousness, advocating for improved animal welfare laws. It emphasizes the moral responsibilities we hold towards sentient beings, even among invertebrates. The podcast challenges traditional views on intelligence and highlights the need for a precautionary approach in evaluating their welfare, especially in aquaculture. It's a deep dive into ethics and the emotional lives of animals.

Cheryl Misak, author of a compelling biography on Frank Ramsey, shares insights into the life of this brilliant Cambridge philosopher who died young at 26. They discuss how Ramsey's thoughts on pragmatism were shaped by mentor Charles K. Ogden and his formative education. Misak highlights Ramsey's struggle between mathematical brilliance and varying economic philosophies, particularly socialism. The conversation also touches on his human-centered perspective, emphasizing how his warmth and sociability influenced his views on probability and economics.

Elizabeth Harman, a philosopher known for her work on moral reasoning, discusses the concept of moral heroes, those who surpass obligatory actions. She explores the complexities of heroism versus moral obligations and the challenges of personal sacrifice. David Edmonds joins the conversation to navigate the ethics of charitable acts and the moral responsibilities we hold, particularly regarding global needs. They also touch on controversial topics like moral vegetarianism, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse moral perspectives.

Philosopher Walter Sinnott Armstrong and David Edmonds discuss AI's role in ethics, focusing on embedding human values, resolving ethical dilemmas in healthcare, and AI's potential in decision-making processes like kidney transplants and medical diagnoses.

David Edmonds discusses the life and philosophy of Derek Parfit, focusing on his views on personal identity, selflessness, the pressures behind 'Reasons and Persons', and the intersection of Parfit's photography and philosophy.

Yascha Mounk delves into the impact of focusing on gender, racial, and sexual identities in political arguments, discussing the distortions it can create. He explores the complexities of identity, the challenges of balancing diversity and universality for justice, nuances of cultural appropriation, boundaries of free speech and identity, and the controversy of disinviting speakers in universities.

Learn about J.L. Austin's transition into philosophy, his role in World War II intelligence, and his innovative contributions to ordinary language philosophy. Explore his evolving views on philosophy, from linguistic clarity to speech acts, and his lasting legacy in post-war Oxford philosophy.

James Klagge, an expert on Wittgenstein, discusses his affluent upbringing, transition to philosophy, and influences like Russell in the Tractatus. They delve into how Wittgenstein's war experiences shaped his philosophical themes and contrast with the Vienna Circle's views on ethics and religion.

David Chalmers discusses the two-way interaction between technology and philosophy, exploring techno philosophy and the extended mind hypothesis. He examines the criteria for determining what can be considered part of one's mind and how technology has extended communication and knowledge. The podcast also delves into the relevance of the extended mind hypothesis in today's technology-driven world.