The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

In a special holiday episode, we get to meet musician and podcaster Roger Heathers, who edits this show. Together, Roger and I discuss how we make the show and share some highlights and challenges re. recent guests. At the beginning and the end of the show, you get to hear two tracks from his soon to be released Upward Spiral: "Guard Dogs" and "Hopefully." They both feature a warm, holiday-like glow. You can listen to him at rogerheathers.bandcamp.com, or check out The Weekly Song Podcast. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic. Sponsor: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance; connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/nem.

We discuss the first six questions from the "Moral Action" section in the Summa Theologica (1268), which we read in Thomas Aquinas: Selected Philosophical Writings (1993). If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Dive into the rich world of virtue and moral action as the hosts dissect Aquinas's intriguing insights. They explore whether virtue is a mere disposition or a deeper quality, contrasting moral goodness with mere competence. The discussion encompasses the connection between emotions and reason, questioning if emotions can truly be aligned with virtuous actions. Delve into how bodily appetites interact with moral agency and whether special virtues are needed for the will to love altruistically. Their thought-provoking banter invites listeners to reflect on the nature of virtue itself.

Mark and Mary dive into whether argumentation is essential to philosophy and explore how to engage with opposing views. They share insights on the importance of internal dialogue and being open to challenges, while also critiquing the limits of debate. Improvisation principles come into play as they discuss ensemble conflicts and the power of shared discovery. Riffing on astrology and alternative healing practices, they blend humor with reflections on belief and personal growth, all while tossing in playful animal facts.

The hosts dive into the Apple TV adaptation of a gripping British spy show, exploring its roots in anti-007 literature. They discuss how it contrasts the glamorous spy genre with realism and humor, emphasizing the human cost of espionage. The cast's performances and the show's brisk six-episode structure are praised, along with its effective mix of comedy and pathos. They also debate the adaptation's fidelity to the source material and the intricacies of character backstories, all while addressing moral ambiguity and narrative pacing.

Dive into the fascinating world of Aquinas as the hosts explore the nature of virtue and its Aristotelian roots. They examine Aquinas' unique question-driven approach and his blending of natural and divine law. The conversation shifts to the role of reason in moral psychology and how habituation influences moral agency from childhood. The distinction between powers and dispositions provides insight into how character shapes intention. Tying it all together, they discuss the concept of teleology and its implications for human actions.

Erin just published her first book, "Avail," which you can order here: https://www.pauldrybooks.com/products/avail "Avail" features a long prose-poem which titles the book and winds through sections of lineated, often formal poems. The prose-poem comprises a series of lyric meditations on the image of the veil—from religious and cultural veils, to veils imbedded in idiom and metaphor, to veiled women in art and classic films, to veils drawn and parted by illness and death—which slowly divulge the harrowing details of the poet's blood disorder. Throughout, allusions to classic film, literature, and art serve as the "veils" with which the poet attempts to obscure the self-estrangement and vulnerability her illness has induced—insecurities which follow her long after her recovery. In a poem about a break-up set during her career as a jazz singer and against the backdrop of a 1930s screwball comedy, she longs "to shake life by the martini (but stay self- / possessed), to star in the movie of myself / instead of playing second lead." During a visit to Naples, Mt. Vesuvius becomes "a Crawford eyebrow / arched over the bay." And in California, after a trip to the Getty Villa, she recalls Sontag's "missive on allusion, that no part / of any work is new, that all is reproduction." By the end of the collection, O'Luanaigh has fashioned from the sum of these various allusions her own poetic identity, unveiled in the poems themselves.

Corey Ledet, a dynamic zydeco bandleader, accordionist, and singer-songwriter, shares insights into his eclectic music style that fuses traditional Creole with R&B and funk. He discusses the energetic vibes of his live album, *Live in Alaska*, including tracks like 'J'ai Parti dans la Campagne' and 'That Girl Wanna Dance'. Corey dives into the roots of zydeco, detailing its history and his innovative approach to songwriting, arrangement, and audience engagement, all while emphasizing a minimalist style focused on danceability.

Explore how communities shape individual identities through shared memories, even from historical events not directly experienced. Delve into the debate on whether foundational beliefs must be literal for coherence. Discover the distinction between genuine communities and mere cooperation in settings like markets. The discussion highlights the psychological pull of genealogy and the role of love, loyalty, and inspiring leadership in forming true communities. Royce's insights offer a rich perspective on our connections and the essence of belonging.

Seth Stephon Brown, an improviser and life coach known for his 'muse' approach, dives deep into the complexities of authenticity and societal norms. He explores the balance between personal values and oppressive systems while questioning whether there’s an authentic core within us. Seth shares playful improv techniques, like a family dynamic session, to uncover vulnerabilities. Plus, he coins the term 'heart tchotchkes' to discuss the distinction between emotional fulfillment and consumerism. It's a thought-provoking journey into self-discovery and creative identity!