The deterministic worldview is linked with the belief that once we understand the laws of nature and human nature, we can create a society where everyone acts in their own interests and is happy. This utopian idea, originating from Plato, suggests that with science and reason, individuals will act in their self-interests and create prosperity. However, the speaker challenges this notion, pointing out that the assumption that people act negatively due to a lack of understanding their self-interests is flawed. The speaker argues that individuals, when enlightened and aware of their true interests, would naturally choose good and noble actions, as no one knowingly acts against their own benefit.
We’re sick men. We’re spiteful men. We’re unpleasant men. We think our livers are diseased (especially Tamler’s). So we talk about Dostoevsky’s wild, complex, stream of consciousness masterpiece Notes From Underground. For this episode we focus on part 1 of the novella, and the philosophy behind it. Is the underground man an existentialist hero affirming his freedom in the face of a deterministic hyper-rationalist worldview? Or is he a lonely man consumed with guilt and self-loathing, constructing a pretentious post-hoc rationalization of his character and behavior? Plus, the American Psychological Association just issued guidelines for how to treat men who embrace traditional masculine ideologies. Is the backlash justified?
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