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The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

Latest episodes

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May 11, 2025 • 1h 2min

PEL Presents PvI#92: Postale au Naturale w/ Greg McBrayer

In this engaging discussion, Greg McBrayer, an associate professor and interim provost at Ashland University, shares his love for philosophy and comedy. The conversation humorously explores the quirky dangers of radon and critiques the concept of ‘natural’ in food and attire. They navigate absurd postal scenarios and reflect on unique trucking culture, mules, and the humor in academia. Greg's insights on balancing podcasting with scholarly life provide a thought-provoking yet entertaining perspective on philosophy's relevance in everyday conversations.
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May 9, 2025 • 11min

PREMIUM-PEL Sentimentalism Nightcap 2025

We put our recent episodes on moral phenomenology into perspective, anticipating our upcoming Hume discussion and going through some other options to enrich this study of sentiment vs. rational intuition. Plus, more potential author-guests and recent philosophy book coverage. If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.
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13 snips
May 5, 2025 • 44min

Ep. 366: Edith Stein on Empathy (Part One)

Explore the dynamic and complex nature of empathy as discussed through Edith Stein's lens. The conversation distinguishes between empathy and sympathy, highlighting how we can enter another's feelings without losing our individuality. Delve into the philosophical intricacies of phenomenology and the significance of lived experiences. The dialogue challenges conventional views on empathy, showing it as a learned faculty connected to perception, self-awareness, and human relationships. Tune in for rich insights into how understanding others enhances our own identities.
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May 2, 2025 • 51min

PEL Presents PMP#195: Mike White's Lotus

We discuss the HBO dramedy about rich people having existential crises at a luxury resort in light of its third season. What exactly made this latest season less satisfying than the others? Does the show have a sustainable formula? What is the show saying about enlightenment? Travel? Sexuality? For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.
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Apr 28, 2025 • 53min

Ep. 365: Scheler on Love (Part Two)

We conclude our treatment of Max Scheler's The Nature of Sympathy (1922), getting further into the Part II of the book about love and hatred and grappling with the puzzles about what exactly it is we love about someone (the "personality"). Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. If you enjoy our podcast, check out Working Class History at workingclasshistory.com.
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Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 5min

PEL Presents NEM#230: Dean Wareham (Luna, Galaxie 500) Waxes Poetic

Dean has released about 20 albums, starting with three '88-'90 with Galaxie 500, then he started fresh in New York as Luna, releasing seven albums and some EPs through 2005 (plus a later reunion), then continued with his Luna bassist and now spouse Britta Phillips as Dean and Britta for five albums, interspersed with now four albums under his own name and other miscellaneous projects. We discuss "We're Not Finished Yet" (and listen at the end to "The Cloud Is Coming" from That's the Price of Loving Me (2025), "Love Is Colder Than Death" from Emancipated Hearts (2013), and "23 Minutes in Brussels" by Luna from Penthouse (1995). Intro: "Strange" by Galaxie 500 from On Fire (1989). More at deanwareham.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.
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Apr 21, 2025 • 46min

Ep. 365: Scheler on Love (Part One)

This discussion dives into Max Scheler's views on love and ethics, emphasizing that love is a powerful force that helps individuals realize their potential. The hosts unpack the differences between deep emotional connections and superficial feelings, advocating for a personal approach to love. They debunk societal norms around romance, insisting that true love recognizes individuality. The conversation also touches on the roles of paternal and maternal love, emphasizing how each influences one's sense of personhood and identity.
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Apr 18, 2025 • 53min

PEL Presents PMP#194: Adolescence Wrecks Us

We watched the 4-part British crime series that's become #1 in 80 countries, breaking Netflix's records for an original series. And man, was it a bummer. But important! We reflect on the purpose of the show, its one-take-per-episode format, the choice of whose perspectives to show, the crazy good acting by such a young person, and we get a little education about incel culture. How have things changed since we were kids? For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.
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7 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 50min

Ep. 364: Max Scheler on Sympathy (Part Three)

Dive into the complexities of sympathy through Max Scheler's lens, where fellow feeling transcends mere identification. Explore how true empathy allows for presence with others' emotions without being overwhelmed. The tension between individualism and moral engagement is dissected, alongside philosophical musings on pity's role in resilience. Engaging with emotions like joy and envy, the discussion reveals the rich tapestry of human experience, challenging simplistic views of sympathy.
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Apr 13, 2025 • 1h 1min

PEL Presents PvI#91: Community Breakdown (or Breakdance?) w/ Nick Armstrong

In this lively discussion, Nick Armstrong, an actor and improviser who directs Camp Improv Utopia, dives into the essence of community in both improv and business. He shares humorous anecdotes about absurd neighborhood watch practices and the trials of underage drinking. They explore the importance of empathy, collaboration, and the challenges of balancing artistic values with financial realities. With witty reflections on customer service and the quirks of social interactions, Nick illustrates the vibrant dynamics that bind communities together.

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