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
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.
Jul 1, 2024 • 51min
Ep. 344: Gettier and Goldman on Justified True Belief (Part Two)
The podcast explores Alvin Goldman's redefinition of justified belief, contrasts different approaches to justification, delves into philosophical perspectives on knowledge, and discusses reliableism in a naturalistic framework. It reflects on the complexities of analytical epistemology and challenges posed by Gettier cases in defining knowledge.
Jun 23, 2024 • 42min
Ep. 344: Gettier and Goldman on Justified True Belief (Part One)
Philosophers Gettier, Goldman, and Zagzebski discuss if justified true belief equals knowledge. They delve into Gettier problems, challenges to traditional epistemology, skepticism, inferences, reliableism theory, and internalist vs. externalist justifications of beliefs.
Jun 17, 2024 • 50min
Ep. 343: Plotinus the Neo-Platonist (Part Two)
Expert in Neo-Platonism Chris Sunami discusses Plotinus' concept of The Good or The One, the transition from nothingness to being, the existence of evil, the importance of unity and oneness, intelligence and the perennial philosophy, the essence of the One in Neo-Platonist philosophy, and contemplation and mystical experiences in Plotinus' teachings.
Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 14min
PEL Presents NEM#217: Richard Thompson's Moments in Time
Guest Richard Thompson, guitarist in Fairport Convention, discusses his new album Ship to Shore, the emotional struggle of feeling stuck, creating traditional tunes like jigs and hornpipes, the recording process of a song using live instruments, and the themes of survival and resilience in his lyrics.
Jun 10, 2024 • 39min
Ep. 343: Plotinus the Neo-Platonist (Part One)
Guest Chris Sunami, a Neo-Platonist scholar, discusses Plotinus' philosophy focusing on 'the one' and metaphysical pursuits towards higher realities. Topics include the concept of beauty, the descent of the soul, and exploring the intricate connections between the good and the beautiful in Plotinus' work.
Jun 3, 2024 • 41min
Ep. 342: Zhuangzi on Knowledge and Virtue (Part Two)
Explore the connection between metaphysics and ethics in Daoist philosophy. Can a non-action philosophy coexist with fighting for justice? Reflect on the generative nature of language in Confucianism. Embrace fate while finding balance between resignation and action. Get updates on podcast projects and the host's musical endeavors.
May 27, 2024 • 43min
Ep. 342: Zhuangzi on Knowledge and Virtue (Part One)
Theo Brooks discusses Zhuangzi's philosophy touching on epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics. Topics include knowing the mind of others, the ever-changing world, the Utmost Person, and the interconnectedness of all things. Delving into Zhuangzi's philosophy challenges traditional ideas and explores the fluidity of meaning and language.
May 20, 2024 • 1h 6min
Ep. 341 Supplemental: Zhuangzi for Closereads Evergreen Network Launch
Exploring the comparison between Daoism and other philosophies, the concept of being a Daoist sage to avoid harm, and the effective cicada catcher as a sage. Delving into the essence of Taoism, harmony with nature, and the pursuit of eternal life. Discussing the therapeutic benefits of stoicism, mental flexibility, and the importance of balancing detachment and engagement with the world.
May 13, 2024 • 58min
Ep. 341: Guest Karyn Lai on Daoism in the Zhuangzi
UNSW Sydney professor Karyn Lai discusses Daoist advice on virtue, political action, and perspectivism in the Zhuangzi text with the hosts. They explore themes like fasting the mind, teacher-student dynamics, and embracing transformation and fate. The conversation delves into living authentically, self-awareness, and the contrast between structured learning and spontaneity.
