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
Aug 26, 2024 • 51min
Ep. 348: Tim Williamson's Knowledge-First Epistemology (Part Two)
In this discussion, philosopher Tim Williamson delves into his Knowledge-First Epistemology, challenging conventional notions of knowledge and belief. He explores the nuances of justification versus excuse, highlighting how we often misinterpret evidence in forming beliefs. Williamson critiques relativism and skepticism with thought-provoking hypotheticals, such as the 'brain in a vat' scenario. The conversation also touches on moral implications of our epistemic views, emphasizing the intertwining of knowledge with ethical judgments.
Aug 25, 2024 • 9min
PREMIUM-PEL End-of-Summer Nightcap 2024
John Ganz, author of a bestselling book, joins Mark, Wes, and Dylan for a lively discussion about contemporary politics and conspiracy theorist psychology. They delve into the connections between post-modernism and today's 'post-truth' discourse, debating its impact on the political landscape. The guests also express relief over having presidential candidates that seem more viable. The conversation further touches on the complexities of conspiracy theories, their appeal, and the authoritarian traits that can emerge from them.
Aug 19, 2024 • 48min
Ep. 348: Tim Williamson's Knowledge-First Epistemology (Part One)
Tim Williamson, a renowned philosopher specializing in epistemology, joins the discussion to explore knowledge-first epistemology—a radical shift from traditional views. He critiques the conventional understanding of justification, truth, and belief, arguing for a definition of these elements in terms of knowledge itself. The conversation delves into historical perspectives from Plato and Descartes, the implications of the Gettier problem, and challenges related to introspection. Williamson's insights pave the way for a deeper understanding of knowledge in the context of contemporary arguments.
Aug 12, 2024 • 38min
Ep. 347: Nyaya Sutra Against Buddhist Skeptics (Part Two)
Dive into a deep philosophical debate about the self as Mark, Seth, and Dylan analyze the Nyaya Sutra versus Buddhist skepticism. Explore the fluidity of selfhood and how Western and Eastern philosophies approach personal identity. The conversation scrutinizes the complexities of memory, desire, and moral responsibility, advocating for a dynamic view of self. Unpacking concepts of causality and perception, they question how our senses relate to identity, bringing rich ideas from Buddhism into the mix. Expect challenging perspectives on existence and consciousness!
Aug 5, 2024 • 52min
Ep. 347: Nyaya Sutra Against Buddhist Skeptics (Part One)
Dive into a fascinating exploration of Nyaya Sutra's defense against Buddhist skepticism. The discussion covers the intricate relationship between perception and reality, revealing the complexities of knowledge claims. From analyzing dreams versus reality to tackling the concept of a 'helpful demon' in epistemology, listeners will grapple with foundational philosophical challenges. The conversation also includes insights on disjunctivism and the distinctions between real experiences and illusions, culminating in an engaging examination of truth and falsehood.
Jul 29, 2024 • 53min
Ep. 346: Nyaya Sutra on Knowledge (Part Two)
Dive into the intriguing realms of knowledge with discussions on sensory perception, highlighting the often-overlooked sense of smell. Explore the tension between Western epistemology and alternative philosophical views, emphasizing the interplay of perception, inference, and language. Uncover the complexities of drawing conclusions and the role of testimony in shaping our understanding. The irony of conspiracy theories emerges, as individuals seek personal truth while challenging established authority—raising profound questions about trust and the nature of knowledge itself.
Jul 22, 2024 • 46min
Ep. 346: Nyaya Sutra on Knowledge (Part One)
Delving into Nyaya Sutra, the podcast explores perception, inerrancy, and non-linguistic knowledge sources, debunking illusions as perceptions. It contrasts Western philosophy, analyzes causal theory, epistemic virtues, knowledge officers, and sense-object connections. Universals, substance, and properties are examined, alongside animal reasoning and sensory perceptions. The impact of cognitive changes on senses is explored, providing a rich philosophical discussion.
Jul 15, 2024 • 52min
Ep. 345: William James on Religious Experience (Part Two)
Delving into William James' philosophical insights on religious experiences, exploring the subjective nature of beliefs and the interplay between personal subjectivity and objective reality. Discussing the subconscious as a gateway to spiritual connection and the importance of self-reflection and personal development. Participants share their experiences with spiritual practices and Unitarianism, emphasizing the value of engaging with a higher power.
6 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 47min
Ep. 345: William James on Religious Experience (Part One)
Philosopher William James discusses religious experience as a sincere reaction to the world, more emotional than intellectual. The podcast explores personal connections to higher powers, confronting evil for deeper experiences, and the yearning for something beyond the ordinary. It delves into mystical encounters, comparing concrete perceptions with abstract concepts, and emphasizes the subjective nature of religious experiences.
Jul 5, 2024 • 12min
PREMIUM-PEL Mid-Summer Nightcap 2024
Philosophers discuss the utility of subgenres in philosophy, non-linguistic communication, accuracy in historical/scientific details, and our current political moment. They ponder the practical implications of philosophical inquiry and question the sufficiency of defining knowledge as justified true belief.
