Thought experiments have played a crucial role in the development of mathematics, philosophy, and science. As implausible as it may seem, reasoning a priori, comfortably from our armchairs, can actually teach us about the real world and drive progress in our understanding. Even ethical thought experiments have changed the minds and influenced the behavior of those who have been presented with them. Though this is a rare occurrence, it has been known to happen.

Peter Singer - The Shallow Pond [YouTube]

The Hospital Story [YouTube]

James Wilson - Internal and External Validity in Thought Experiments [PDF]

Philosophy Bites - James Wilson [mp3]

Transcripts available at emersongreenblog.wordpress.com

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