

Philosophize This!
Stephen West
Beginner friendly if listened to in order! For anyone interested in an educational podcast about philosophy where you don't need to be a graduate-level philosopher to understand it. In chronological order, the thinkers and ideas that forged the world we live in are broken down and explained.
Episodes
Mentioned books

508 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 32min
Episode #219 ... Dostoevsky - Crime and Punishment
Explore the intricate philosophical themes in Dostoevsky's masterpiece, focusing on Raskolnikov's moral dilemmas and existential struggles. Discover the clash between rational utilitarianism and deep-seated guilt, highlighting the illusion of moral justification. The narrative critiques nihilism and emphasizes the journey towards self-awareness and potential redemption. Dive into the tension between individualism and societal norms, while also examining how personal accountability resonates with today's world.

333 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 36min
Episode #218 ... Dostoevsky - Notes From Underground
Dive into the depths of Dostoevsky's 'Notes From Underground', where philosophical themes of nihilism and authenticity collide. Discover the chaos of human experience and the irrationality that defies the notion of a rational society. Explore the protagonist's inner turmoil and isolation, revealing the essential role of suffering in life. The tension between love and freedom is dissected, showcasing how genuine connections can lead to true independence. It's a thought-provoking journey into the mind of one of literature's greatest thinkers!

458 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 47min
Episode #217 ... Religion and Nothingness - Kyoto School pt. 2 - Nishitani
Explore the expanding view of religious quests, challenging dualistic thinking. Dive into the critique of utilitarianism and technology’s impact on our understanding of existence. Discover Nishitani's insights on self-emptying and interconnectedness, emphasizing a transformative spiritual approach. Engage with the philosophical tension between consciousness and nihilism, promoting a holistic existence. Finally, embrace the concepts of shunyata and compassion as remedies for societal pressures of perfection.

285 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 36min
Episode #216 ... The Self-Overcoming of Nihilism - Kyoto School pt. 1 - Nishitani
Delve into the intricate thoughts of Keiji Nishitani as nihilism transforms from mere despair to a rich ground for existential inquiry. Explore the concept of 'The Great Doubt' and how Zen Buddhism intersects with personal experience. Discover how the self is perceived through the lens of structural linguistics, emphasizing introspection and the essence of identity. Engage with the notion of emptiness as a lived experience, urging listeners to question traditional views and embrace a deeper understanding of existence.

291 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 31min
Episode #215 ... How Mysticism is missing in our modern lives. (Critchley, Heidegger)
Dive into the intriguing discussion on achieving freedom from the will, exploring how modern life stifles our connection with Being. Discover the misconceptions surrounding mysticism and its vital role in creating meaning in our lives. The conversation critiques the limitations of rational thought and suggests embracing vulnerability for transformative experiences. Uncover alternative paths to mysticism through poetry and music, offering refreshing insights into reconnecting with the spiritual essence often overlooked in contemporary culture.

339 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 38min
Episode #214 ... Framing our Being in a completely different way. (Heidegger)
Dive into Heidegger's captivating critique of metaphysics as he challenges the traditional subject-object framing in philosophy. Discover the importance of Dasein, where lived experience takes precedence over mere theory. Explore the distinction between ontic and ontological concepts, rethinking free will and human agency through cultural lenses. Emphasizing embodiment, this discussion highlights our interconnectedness with the world. Plus, reflect on how temporality and death shape our understanding of existence. It's a thought-provoking journey!

289 snips
Oct 13, 2024 • 37min
Episode #213 ... Deleuze Interprets Nietzsche (Difference, Joy, Affirmation)
Explore how Deleuze reinterprets Nietzsche, advocating for a radical embrace of difference and joy over traditional dialectics. Challenging the rigidity of representational thinking, the conversation emphasizes creativity in understanding existence. Discover the concept of self-acceptance as a pathway to genuine living and how art serves as a catalyst for innovation. The dynamic interplay of active versus reactive forces reveals a playful approach to life, reminding us that true creativity transcends societal norms.

295 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 38min
Episode #212 ... Nietzsche and Critchley on the tragic perspective. (Amor Fati pt. 2)
Explore Nietzsche's life-affirming perspective, which challenges rational traditions in Western thought. Delve into Greek tragedy as a lens for appreciating life’s complexities, showcasing human suffering and moral ambiguities. Discover the shortcomings of reason when grappling with human conflict, while recognizing tragedy's vital role in understanding existence. The complexity of flawed characters in ancient narratives contrasts sharply with modern idealized tales, prompting a reflective journey through the fragility and ambiguity of life.

680 snips
Sep 22, 2024 • 41min
Episode #211 ... Nietzsche returns with a hammer!
Dive into Nietzsche's critical take on the decay of western society and his issues with Socratic rationality. Explore how he challenges notions of universal morality and egalitarianism, warning against mediocrity. Discover his idea of the Ubermensch and how it contrasts with contemporary views. Embrace the chaos of life as Nietzsche emphasizes the importance of authenticity and strength, arguing that true growth stems from facing life's struggles head-on.

146 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 39min
Episode #210 ... The Pedagogy of the Oppressed (Paulo Freire, Education)
Dive into Paulo Freire's radical thoughts on education as liberation versus oppression. Discover the pitfalls of the traditional banking model of learning and the significance of critical consciousness. Explore the dynamic dance between oppressors and the oppressed, and how dialogical education can spark true understanding. The podcast highlights Freire's engaging problem-posing model and examines his Marxist influences, revealing how education can be a powerful tool for both personal and societal transformation.