Slavoj Žižek, a renowned Slovenian philosopher and cultural critic, dives into the chaos of our ecological crisis. He provocatively questions if nature truly exists and critiques capitalism's role in worsening environmental issues. The conversation challenges the idea that individual consumers are primarily to blame for ecological decline, spotlighting systemic factors instead. Žižek argues for a reevaluation of democratic structures and highlights water scarcity's link to social inequality, calling for a profound shift in our relationship with nature.

In this engaging discussion, Slavoj Žižek, a renowned Slovenian philosopher known for his insights on psychoanalysis and Marxism, dives deep into the world of whistleblowers and the impact of WikiLeaks. He raises provocative questions about the illusion of freedom in the age of information. Alongside these revelations, Žižek explores the paradox of knowledge, struggling with what we do when faced with undeniable truths. With references to figures like Julian Assange and cultural commentary from Norm Macdonald, the conversation challenges our perceptions of truth and secrecy.

In this engaging discussion, philosopher Slavoj Žižek dives into the implications of biogenetics and its existential dilemmas. He critiques how advancements like CRISPR challenge our notions of identity, ethics, and the very fabric of humanity. The conversation humorously imagines a future where genetic traits dictate social hierarchies and romantic choices. Žižek also highlights the urgent need for responsible biogenetic research amidst the complexities of capitalism and societal inequalities, all while drawing eye-opening parallels to our current global crises.

Slavoj Žižek, a prominent philosopher known for his sharp critiques of ideology, dives into the world of neurotheology. He discusses mind-bending topics like out-of-body experiences and the peculiar connections between LSD, dolphins, and dimethyltryptamine. The conversation explores the impact of virtual reality on self-perception and consciousness, and how it can aid in therapies for conditions like Phantom Limb Syndrome. Žižek’s insights make us rethink our understanding of reality and the brain’s fascinating capabilities.

Alright, we’re Living in the End Times, the commons of our culture has been captured and this is the first episode in a series we’re doing on The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, or as Žižek sometimes puts it, the Four Riders of the Apocalypse. This week we’re talking intellectual property and the economy. Žižek says we are approaching a whole series of critical points, and the question is: can the global liberal democratic system – the capitalist system – deal with them or not? SUPPORT US ON PATREON! See you in Paris! Ž&…

In this engaging discussion, Adrian Johnston, an author focused on Freudian and Marxist intersections, dives into his book, Infinite Greed. He explores the perplexing relationship between wealth and psychological desire, questioning if we really are worth our weight in gold. The conversation shifts to the dynamics of recognition under capitalism versus socialism and critiques philanthropy's true motives. Johnston also ponders whether we've transcended capitalism and teases an upcoming co-written work with Slavoj Žižek.

Adrian Johnston, a thought-provoking author, delves into his latest book on capitalism's inhuman selfishness. He paints a vivid picture of capitalism as a consumer of its own detriment, comparing it to absurd scenarios involving waste. The discussion links psychoanalysis to economic thought, questioning the essence of selfishness within capitalism. Insights into the moral dilemmas faced by CEOs depict the conflict between ethics and economic pressures, shedding light on wealth inequality and capitalism's failures in addressing the needs of the marginalized.

In this engaging discussion, Slavoj Žižek, a leading philosopher in psychoanalysis and ideology, and Adrian Johnston, known for his insights into materialism, delve into the intriguing connections between waste and capitalism. They explore why excrement holds symbolic value, highlighting Freud's perspective that links the highest forms of wealth to the lowest forms of waste. The conversation takes humorous turns, touching on topics like the political implications of toilet sanitation and even Japanese hamburgers, revealing how cultural practices shape our understanding of value and existence.

Todd McGowan, author of 'Embracing Alienation: Why We Shouldn't Try to Find Ourselves,' discusses the intriguing politics of non-belonging. He delves into the paradox of identity in contemporary culture and the role of alienation in cinema. McGowan critiques identitarian politics while highlighting how shared alienation can foster solidarity. The conversation also touches on determinism, the complexities of narrative, and the philosophical challenges of self-discovery. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how we relate to ourselves and society.

Todd McGowan, an author known for his insights on philosophy and psychoanalysis, discusses his latest work on alienation. He explores the complexities of societal disconnection amidst contemporary crises, emphasizing why embracing alienation can lead to true political emancipation. McGowan examines the intersection of alienation and creativity, sharing how personal writing influences narratives. The conversation also delves into the representation of alienation in cinema, linking it to broader themes of identity and community in modern society.