Philosophy Pod

In this episode, we explore René Girard's concept of mimetic desire, which posits that human desires are imitative, influenced by observing and emulating others, leading to rivalry and conflict. This idea is central to his interdisciplinary work, which explores how mimetic desire underpins social dynamics, violence, and the scapegoat mechanism. Despite criticisms of being overly deterministic and lacking empirical evidence, Girard's theory remains influential in understanding human behavior and cultural phenomena. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore David Hume's Problem of Induction and its implication for scientific inquiry, epistemology and causation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Albert Camus, a pivotal figure in 20th-century French philosophy, who introduced the concept of "the absurd," a fundamental conflict inherent in the human condition. His philosophy asserts that life is devoid of intrinsic meaning, yet humans instinctively seek order and purpose, leading to an inevitable clash with the indifferent universe. Camus' exploration of the absurd challenges individuals to embrace this tension without resort to false hopes, advocating for a life of integrity and defiance despite existential uncertainties.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher who founded Epicureanism, offering a revolutionary view on death that continues to influence modern existential thought. Central to his philosophy is the assertion that "death is nothing to us." For Epicurus, this was not a mere dismissal of life's value but a profound statement about the nature of existence and non-existence. He argued that all sensations, including pain and pleasure, are rooted in experience; since death signifies the end of all sensory experience, it should not be feared. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the branch of philosophy known as philosophy of mind.  We'll discuss famous thinkers on the subject, areas of inquiry as well as important theories.  Lastly, we'll talk about the important implications of this field and its future development.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we look the moral philosophy of one of the most influential thinkers in history, Confucius.  We'll discuss  his key concepts of Ren, Li and Junzi, his influence on Asian society and cultural values, as well as, the difference between his views and those of the Ancient Greek philosophers.  Lastly, we'll talk about some of the criticisms of his philosophy and the attempt to overturn his influence on Chinese thought during the end of the 20th century.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Michel Foucault's view of power, which diverge significantly from traditional theories that conceptualize power as a commodity or structure possessed by certain entities (e.g., the state, ruling classes).  Power, in Foucault's view, is exercised rather than owned, manifesting itself through practices, institutions, and discourses that condition human behavior and thought.  Such an example demonstrates Foucault's insight that power is everywhere, not because it embraces everything, but because it comes from everywhere. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aristotle's metaphysics, a foundational branch of Western philosophy, delves into the fundamental nature of reality, exploring concepts such as substance, essence, form, matter, and the causes of being. Through this inquiry, Aristotle establishes a comprehensive framework that addresses the relationships between potentiality and actuality, form and matter, and the hierarchical structuring of the natural world, laying the groundwork for subsequent metaphysical thought.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we'll explore Hannah Arendt's theory of totalitarianism.  Hannah Arendt, a prominent 20th-century political theorist, explored the nature and origins of totalitarianism extensively. She argued that totalitarian regimes, exemplified by Nazi Germany and Stalinist Soviet Union, thrived on isolation, terror, and the eradication of individual freedoms, aiming to dominate every aspect of life and to obliterate the distinction between public and private spheres. Arendt highlighted the unprecedented nature of totalitarianism, emphasizing its use of ideology and the mobilization of mass support to achieve total control over both the state and the individual, leading to the total domination of human beings.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we discuss John Searle's famous thought experiment, the "Chinese Room" and examine its implications for the theory of mind, AI and consciousness.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plato's definition of knowledge as "justified true belief" fits centrally into his broader theory of knowledge and his metaphysical framework. This definition is a crucial component of his epistemology, serving as a bridge between his metaphysical distinctions (between the world of Forms and the physical world) and his ethical and political theories.  In this episode, we'll explore what Plato classified as  true knowledge, elucidated by his famous Allegory of the Cave and idea of Forms.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19th century German philosopher, Karl Marx, remains to this day one of philosophy's most influential thinkers.  In this episode, we'll explore his main critiques of the capitalist mode of production.  We'll also examine some of the main arguments against Marx's views, both economic and philosophical.  If you enjoy this episode, consider checking out our other podcast Economics in Action where we discuss interesting topics and ideas related to economics.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we'll explore Derek Parfit, a prominent British philosopher renowned for his influential contributions to personal identity, ethics, and rationality. Best known for his seminal work "Reasons and Persons," Parfit's innovative ideas challenged conventional views on the nature of the self and moral philosophy. His profound insights, particularly regarding the nature of personal identity and the complexities of ethical decision-making, have left a lasting impact on contemporary philosophical thought.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we'll explore the ethical views of Simone de Beauvoir, a prominent French existentialist philosopher.  Her approach emphasizes the importance of freedom, responsibility, and the subjective experiences of individuals in ethical decision-making. De Beauvoir's work, particularly in "The Ethics of Ambiguity," challenges traditional ethical frameworks by asserting that individuals must continuously create their values through actions, underlining the inherent uncertainty and complexity of moral life.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we focus on John Stuart Mill, one of the most influential thinkers in the realm of liberty and individual rights. We'll  explore Mill's revolutionary concepts of individual freedom, examining how he believed personal liberty should be balanced with the role of government in society. Join us as we navigate the intricate landscape of Mill's philosophy, dissecting his views on the limits of authority and the importance of personal autonomy in a progressive society.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martin Heidegger was a German philosopher whose work is central to 20th-century continental philosophy, particularly within the fields of existentialism and phenomenology. His philosophy is primarily concerned with the nature of being and human existence. Heidegger sought to challenge traditional metaphysical notions, proposing instead a radical reinterpretation of what it means to be.  In this episode, we'll explore his philosophy and some of the criticisms leveled against him.  Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the philosophical concept of Determinism.  The philosophical debate between determinism and free will grapples with a fundamental question: are our actions predetermined by a chain of prior events, or do we have the ability to choose freely? Determinism posits that every event, including human cognition and behavior, is causally determined by an unbroken chain of prior occurrences, governed by the laws of nature.  Today we'll tease out the history of this topic, along with some of main arguments and counterarguments.  The question is, do you have a choice to listen or not? Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we'll unpack the ideas of Robert Nozick, a towering figure of the 20th century who championed the cause of libertarianism. His views on the minimal state, individual rights, and critiques of redistribution have been subjects of passionate debate for decades. But like all profound ideas, they've also faced their share of criticisms. From questions about the origins of just acquisitions to the importance of community, Nozick's philosophy challenges us to think about the role of the state in society. Whether you're a staunch libertarian, a believer in a more proactive role of the state, or just curious about the nuances of political thought, today's episode promises a thought-provoking journey.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Friedrich Nietzsche's  concept of the 'affirmation of life,' a principle that invites us to embrace existence in all its chaotic, beautiful, and sometimes painful entirety. Nietzsche challenges us to say 'yes' to life, not selectively, but wholly, accepting its joys, sorrows, triumphs, and tribulations with open arms. Imagine living your life in an eternal loop, experiencing every joy, every pain, every moment over and over again - would you embrace it or recoil from it?  Join us as we unravel the threads of Nietzschean affirmation, exploring how this idea has permeated through time, influencing thinkers, writers, and even our everyday lives.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are exploring the intriguing philosophical concept introduced by the 19th-century philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer: "The World as Will" This pivotal idea posits that our world is twofold, consisting of the representation, the world as we perceive it, and the will, the world as it truly is, the inner essence driving all existence. Schopenhauer’s will is a ceaseless, insatiable force that propels all actions, behaviors, and desires, painting life as a perpetual dance between desire and satisfaction, a dance that leads invariably to suffering. Today, we will navigate through the multifaceted dimensions of Schopenhauer’s concept, exploring its profound implications on human existence, desire, the nature of suffering, and the avenues for transcendence through aesthetic and philosophical contemplation. So, sit back, ponder, and join us as we journey through Schopenhauer’s pessimistic yet enlightening worldview.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.