Shows
Hangin’ with Mr. SuperMarkesan 4KRebecca Walter and Tracy Werch join Jason to discuss all things 4K and the upcoming screening.
2025-02-2713 min
Philosophy PodGirard on Mimetic DesireIn 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.
2024-05-2007 minPhilosophy PodHume's Problem of Induction 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.
2024-05-2010 minPhilosophy PodCamus on the AbsurdIn 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...
2024-04-1505 minPhilosophy PodEpicurus on DeathIn 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. S...
2024-04-1505 minPhilosophy PodPhilosophy of MindIn 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.
2024-03-2806 minPhilosophy PodConfucius' Moral PhilosophyIn 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.
2024-03-2810 minPhilosophy PodFoucault on PowerIn 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.
2024-03-1910 minPhilosophy PodArendt on TotalitarianismIn 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 o...
2024-03-1105 minPhilosophy PodAristotle's MetaphysicsAristotle'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.
2024-03-1106 minPhilosophy PodSearle's "Chinese Room"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.
2024-03-0204 minPhilosophy PodPlato's Theory of KnowledgePlato'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.
2024-02-2106 minPhilosophy PodMarx's Critique of Capitalism19th 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.
2024-02-1308 min
Economics in ActionDoes the World Free-Ride on US Drug Development?In this episode, we explore the claim made in a recent Wall Street Journal opinion piece, entitled, "Be Thankful for High Drug Prices" that claims high drug prices in the US are what allow for new drug innovation and that other countries take advantage of this. We'll explore the economic quirks of the drug industry and look at some argument and evidence that counter the claim the authors of the piece make. The article: https://www.wsj.com/articles/be-thankful-for-high-drug-prices-healthcare-policy-research-and-development-3e603ca8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-1311 minEconomics in ActionAre Google and Meta Monopolies?In this episode, we'll answer a question that economists Tyler Cowen and Luigi Zingales attempted to answer in a mini-debate about 5 years ago: Are Google and Meta monopolies? While they had both had interesting answers, in this episode I'll explore a different take and also talk about the key issues policy-makers should be focused on. If you haven't seen that debate, you can check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNHB-Av4BQQ&t=1334s Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-01-2914 minPhilosophy PodParfit on IdentityIn 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.
2024-01-2409 minEconomics in ActionThe Most Important Theory in FinanceIn this episode, we'll look at Modern Portfolio Theory, which revolutionized the field of investment portfolio management by introducing a quantitative framework for maximizing investment returns relative to risk. The theory emphasizes the importance of diversification, advocating for the creation of an 'efficient frontier' of optimal portfolios that offer the highest expected return for a given level of risk. Central to MPT is the concept that the risk of a portfolio can be reduced and its expected return maximized through careful asset selection based on their expected returns, risks, and the correlations between them. Hosted on Acast. See...
2024-01-1016 minPhilosophy PodDe Beauvoir on the Ethics of AmbiguityIn 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.
2024-01-1007 minEconomics in ActionAre Workers Paid a Fair Wage?In this episode, we explore the idea of fairness in the distribution of pay. We discuss the economic theory behind wage-setting and how it can help to answer whether wages are fair. Then we discuss how the cards might be stacked against some workers and why things may not be as fair as they seem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-01-0314 minPhilosophy PodMill on Individual Freedom and the Role of GovernmentIn 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.
2024-01-0206 minPhilosophy PodMartin HeideggerMartin 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.
2023-11-1405 minEconomics in ActionHow the Fed sets Interest RatesYou might have heard business news reports of the Fed raising or lowering interest rates to slow down or speed up the economy, but how does the Fed actually do this? Why do interest rates matter? What interest rate does the Fed even control? In this episode, we'll take a look at arguably the most important institution in the world and how it uses its most important tool, interest rates, to influence the overall economy. Most textbooks out there are outdated in how their description of how the Fed sets the interest rate and today we're going to set the reco...
2023-11-1413 minEconomics in ActionWhat is Industrial Policy?Welcome to today's episode where we'll dive into the world of industrial policy, a tool governments use to give a boost to certain sectors of the economy. We'll explore how it can lead to exciting growth and innovation but also discuss why some folks are wary about its drawbacks. Get ready for a balanced take on this economic strategy that's shaping industries around the globe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-11-0312 minPhilosophy PodWhat is Determinism?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? Supp...
2023-11-0312 minPhilosophy PodNozick on GovernmentIn 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...
2023-10-3006 minEconomics in ActionCapitalism is the Worst!In this episode, we respond to the lovers of the free market with a chant, "Down with Capitalism!". Not really, but instead we do point out a number of capitalism's flaws and show that it isn't the "perfect" economic system that some people think it is. Join us as we uncover the dirty innards of capitalism and expose the weaknesses that lie beneath. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-10-3017 minPhilosophy PodNietzsche on Affirmation of LifeIn 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, in...
2023-10-1009 minEconomics in ActionWhy is Taco Bell so !@#$ Expensive??In this episode, we explore the semi-recent price hikes in the fast food industry. Tiktokers and YouTubers have been bashing the company for raising prices, but sales for the company have never been stronger. Is this normal corporate profit maximization? Is this a case of Greedflation? Is the government trying to prevent us from being happy?? We'll discuss the reason for the price increases and also a number of other interesting facts about the fast food industry. Vamos! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-10-0613 minPhilosophy PodSchopenhauer on the World as WillIn 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, expl...
2023-10-0206 minEconomics in ActionWhy Capitalism is the Best!In this episode, we give all the reasons for capitalism being the best economic system out there. We not only give a description of how capitalist systems work, but all why they bring about efficiency, growth and innovation. If you're not a fan of capitalism, stay tuned for a further episode where we'll be exploring all the downsides of capitalism. But for today- yay capitalism! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-09-3014 minPhilosophy PodLocke on PropertyJohn Locke, a prominent philosopher of the 17th century, is renowned for his profound contributions to political and moral philosophy. Among his many influential ideas, Locke's concept of property stands as a cornerstone of his philosophy. In this episode, we will explore Locke's notion of property, its significance in his philosophy, and its enduring impact on modern political thought.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-09-2007 minEconomics in ActionAll About InflationIn this episode, we examine inflation: what is it, what causes it and how to fix it. We also talk about the strange case of the flailing Phillip's Curve and why unemployment hasn't been rising even though inflation has come down significantly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-09-1918 minPhilosophy PodTractatus Logico-PhilosophicusLudwig Wittgenstein, a prominent philosopher of the 20th century, left a grandiose impact on philosophy with his groundbreaking work, the "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus," published in 1921. Listen to find out what he meant by, "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world."Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-2607 minPhilosophy PodHume on CausalityHow to we know that one event happening causes the other? This is the question that puzzled 18th century Scottish philosopher David Hume. In this episode, we'll explore his profound thoughts on the matter and their implications for science. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-2606 minEconomics in ActionBack to Basics: Simplifying how to think about EconomicsIn this episode, we’re going to break down the study of economics to the basics. Strip away money, prices and human psychology and what you get is simply one very big problem. This episode will hopefully help to simplify your understand of this complex subject and make you think more clearly about things going on in the world of economics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-2607 minEconomics in ActionChina's Slowing Economic Growth and Total Factor ProductivityJoin us in this episode of our podcast as we delve into a critical aspect of China's economic landscape: its slowing economic performance. As China's rapid economic growth of previous decades begins to show signs of deceleration, questions arise about the factors contributing to this shift. One crucial lens through which we'll examine this issue is Total Factor Productivity (TFP). We'll explore why TFP matters in assessing China's economic trajectory, discussing how it encapsulates the efficiency of resource utilization, technological advancements, and the overall effectiveness of economic institutions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-2513 minEconomics in ActionSAG-AFTRA Strikes and Labor UnionsIn today's episode, we delve deep into labor unions, with a special focus on SAG-AFTRA, one of the most influential unions in the entertainment industry. As we navigate the complex landscape of collective bargaining, wage negotiations, and the broader implications of union activities, we'll shed light on the pivotal role such organizations play in shaping the economic dynamics of industries. Whether you're an industry professional, a student of economics, or just someone curious about the behind-the-scenes workings of Hollywood, this episode promises a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between labor rights and economic forces. Join us as we unpack the...
2023-08-1919 minPhilosophy PodDennett on ConsciousnessIn this episode, we'll explore Daniel Dennett's views on consciousness. Dennett, a prominent American philosopher, writer, and cognitive scientist, has contributed significantly to the field of philosophy of mind. His views are multifaceted and complex, reflecting an effort to demystify what many consider to be one of the deepest and most enigmatic aspects of human experience.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-1106 minEconomics in ActionThe Use of Knowledge in SocietyIn this episode, we'll explore one of the most important essays in economic history, "The Use of Knowledge in Society" written by Friedrich Hayek. We'll talk about Hayek's perspective on decentralized systems, its implications for complex systems theory as well as some contemporary criticisms of his views. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-0811 minPhilosophy PodStoicismIn this episode we'll explore the teaching of the Stoic philosophers. Stoicism was founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BC. It had a profound influence on Roman culture, and through the writings of the Late Stoa philosophers, it has continued to influence Western thinking up to the present day.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-0504 minEconomics in ActionForeign Property Ownership: Is China a Threat?In this episode, we’ll be examining a recent news story that Florida is limiting foreigners and especially Chinese from buying property in the state. How should we view this current law and the broaderpoint of foreigners owning property or land in another country? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-0521 minEconomics in ActionNew Keynesian EconomicsIn this episode, we're exploring the world of New Keynesian Economics, a theory that demonstrates how factors like sticky prices and rational expectations shape our economy. We'll take you on a journey through its core principles, real-world applications, and how it influences policy decisions - helping you understand why it's more relevant than ever in today's dynamic economic landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-0111 minPhilosophy PodBertrand Russell's ParadoxIn this episode we'll examine Russell's paradox, which is a set-theoretic paradox published by the British philosopher and mathematician Bertrand Russell in 1901.Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-0105 minEconomics in ActionEconomic Theories of ValueIn this episode, we explore a philosophical topic in the field of economics, taking a look back at the history of the different theories of value. Value has always been at the heart of economics even while being a more abstract, difficult to measure notion. Our ideas about value have changed over time, but its significance for economic decision-making and policy is still very relevant today. We also examine the arguments in a relatively recent book on economic value: The Value of Everything: Making and Taking in the Global Economy, written by Mariana Mazzucato. Hosted on Acast. See acast...
2023-07-2622 minPhilosophy PodHobbes on Free WillIn this episode, we'll examine the influential 17th century English philosopher Thomas Hobbes' views on free will. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2605 minEconomics in ActionConsumption TaxesIn this episode we explore the history and nature of taxes, the difference between a consumption and income tax and why some economists think that a consumption tax should replace income taxes as the main source of federal government revenue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2407 minPhilosophy PodWhat is Metaphysics?In this episode we explore the field of metaphysics, one of the main branches of philosophical thought, its focus of inquiry and why it's important. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2405 minEconomics in ActionTrade DeficitsShould we worry about trade deficits? Do other countries take advantage of us when they export to us more goods than we export to them? In this episode we explore all the nuances of trade and trade deficits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2113 minPhilosophy PodKant's Theory of KnowledgeThe episode delves into 18th century German philosopher Immanuel Kant's profound insights on knowledge, known as Transcendental Idealism. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-2106 minPhilosophy PodKierkegaard on AnxietyIn this episode we examine 19th century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard's conception of anxiety. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-1405 minPhilosophy PodLeibniz on TimeThis episode focuses on the 17th century philosopher and mathematician Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz's conception of time. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-1006 minEconomics in ActionWinner Takes All MarketsIn this episode we’re going to be looking at the idea of a winner takes all market. The idea of winner takes all can be traced back to the 1980s when economist Sherwin Rosen published a groundbreaking paper titled "The Economics of Superstars." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-0812 minPhilosophy PodHume's Moral PhilosophyThis episode details the 18th century Scottish philosopher David Hume's moral philosophy. Support the Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-07-0805 min