The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast
Mark Linsenmayer, Wes Alwan, Seth Paskin, Dylan Casey
The Partially Examined Life is a podcast by some guys who were at one point set on doing philosophy for a living but then thought better of it. Each episode, we pick a short text and chat about it with some balance between insight and flippancy. You don't have to know any philosophy, or even to have read the text we're talking about to (mostly) follow and (hopefully) enjoy the discussion. For links to the texts we discuss and other info, check out www.partiallyexaminedlife.com.
We also feature episodes from other podcasts by our hosts to round out your partially examined life, including Pretty Much Pop (prettymuchpop.com, covering all media), Nakedly Examined Music (nakedlyexaminedmusic.com, deconstructing songs), Philosophy vs. Improv (philosophyimprov.com, fun with performance skills and philosophical ideas), and (sub)Text (subtextpodcast.com, looking deeply at lit and film). Learn about more network podcasts at partiallyexaminedlife.com.
We also feature episodes from other podcasts by our hosts to round out your partially examined life, including Pretty Much Pop (prettymuchpop.com, covering all media), Nakedly Examined Music (nakedlyexaminedmusic.com, deconstructing songs), Philosophy vs. Improv (philosophyimprov.com, fun with performance skills and philosophical ideas), and (sub)Text (subtextpodcast.com, looking deeply at lit and film). Learn about more network podcasts at partiallyexaminedlife.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 25, 2024 • 50min
Ep. 355: Marx on Alienation (Part Two)
In this discussion, guest Lawrence Dallman, a knowledgeable speaker on Karl Marx's theories, dives deep into the concept of alienation in labor. He explores whether capitalism creates alienation or if alienation leads to capitalism. The conversation delves into Marx's ideas on estranged labor, examining how economic structures disconnect individuals from their true selves. Dallman emphasizes the philosophical implications of overcoming alienation and envisions a society where authentic relationships and self-actualization flourish.
Nov 18, 2024 • 39min
Ep. 355: Marx on Alienation (Part One)
Lawrence Dallman, a guest expert on Karl Marx, explores the profound implications of Marx's concepts of alienation and labor. He discusses how modern work often estranges individuals from their true selves and the products of their labor. Dallman critiques the relationship between property and community, emphasizing the importance of human self-actualization beyond mere survival. The conversation delves into the transformative potential of collective action while contrasting Marx's views with those of Hegel, shedding light on the essence of individuality in a communal context.
Nov 17, 2024 • 10min
PREMIUM-PEL Thick-of-Fall Nightcap 2024
Just in time for Halloween, a lively discussion unfolds about horror media and our primal fears. The hosts reflect on previous interviews, questioning whether they embrace the future of science-minded philosophy. They tackle the complexities of their past coverage on trans issues and respond to listener engagement. Philosophical inquiries intertwine with insights on AI, cognitive science, and the struggle to reconcile knowledge with the nuances of human psychology, creating a thought-provoking blend of topics.
5 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 41min
Ep. 354: Guest Tim Williamson on Philosophic Method (Part Two)
In this engaging discussion, philosopher Tim Williamson shares insights from his work on knowledge and metaphysics. He delves into the challenges of applying philosophical theories to real-world ethical dilemmas, emphasizing the importance of a nuanced methodology. The conversation critiques traditional analytic approaches, advocating for incorporating psychological and empirical research. Tim also highlights the gaps between scientific models and moral reasoning, encouraging a more connected approach to philosophy that bridges public and academic discourse.
14 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 43min
Ep. 354: Guest Tim Williamson on Philosophic Method (Part One)
Tim Williamson, an Oxford philosophy professor and author of "Overfitting and Heuristics in Philosophy," delves into the integration of scientific insights into traditional philosophy. He discusses the dangers of overcomplicating theories and the pitfalls of relying on cognitive heuristics, which can distort reasoning. Furthermore, Williamson reevaluates the Gettier problem, suggesting that simpler approaches may better capture the essence of knowledge. He advocates for a collaboration between philosophy and psychology to enrich philosophical inquiry.
Oct 28, 2024 • 48min
Ep. 353: Reid on Visual Knowledge (Part Two)
Dive into the intriguing world of perception as differences in sensory modalities are explored, particularly the stark contrast between sight and touch. The discussion scrutinizes the philosophical concept of resemblance in visual knowledge and its implications for understanding reality. Pain and non-signifying feelings are examined, revealing their significance in our sensory experiences. The intertwining of perception and language highlights how our grasp of reality is shaped by trust and skepticism. Engage with these deep philosophical inquiries for a richer understanding of how we perceive the world!
38 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 49min
Ep. 353: Reid on Visual Knowledge (Part One)
Dive into the intriguing world of visual knowledge, where perception meets philosophy! The discussion navigates optical illusions and the mechanics of sight, revealing complexities in how we interpret sensory experiences. Explore the relationship between visual sensation and geometric frameworks, examining the differences between two and three-dimensional perceptions. A look at human cognition highlights the universal ability to read emotions visually. Philosophical critiques of causality challenge conventional beliefs about reality and perception.
Oct 14, 2024 • 49min
Ep. 352: Thomas Reid on Smelling and Knowledge (Part Two)
Dive into the intriguing world of Thomas Reid's philosophy, where human perception is put under the microscope. Discover how the senses of smell connect to memory and imagination, revealing our unique experience of reality. The debate between Aristotelian and Cartesian thought unveils the complexities of sensation and belief. Reid's critique of skepticism champions common sense as a path to understanding. Join a lively exploration of how sensory experiences shape our knowledge and the fascinating exchange between Reid and Hume.
Oct 7, 2024 • 55min
Ep. 352: Thomas Reid on Smelling and Knowledge (Part One)
Delve into Thomas Reid's critique of modern philosophy's misconceptions about perception. Discover how our senses, especially smell, reveal deeper truths about reality, challenging traditional epistemological frameworks. Explore the relationships between sensory experiences and knowledge, emphasizing the complexity of human cognition. Engage with the philosophical battle against skepticism and the historical significance of language in shaping our understanding. Uncover how our sensory perceptions construct our reality, particularly through the fascinating lens of scent.
Oct 5, 2024 • 14min
PREMIUM-Ep. 351: Sophie Grace Chappell on Transgender (Part Two)
Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on transgender identity and philosophy. The conversation tackles the nuances of gender as a cluster concept, emphasizing individual experiences over essentialism. Explore the ethical implications of gender rights and how societal expectations intersect with personal identities. From the intricacies of terms to the practicalities of sports and bathrooms, this insightful dialogue reveals the complexities that shape transgender experiences and the ongoing quest for equity.
