In this episode, premises are discussed. This is an interview with Heidi Søndergaard Jensen.

In this episode, Martha Nussbaum’s critical objection to Social Contract Theory is discussed. There is concern for the implications of certain conditions limiting participants in the Social Contract and how those constraints affect how moral duties are ascribed. Listen to hear how Nussbaum’s critique of Social Contract Theory can be extended to highlight how the theory excludes some human beings.

In this episode, the aim of science is discussed. Boyd’s Scientific Realism as the best explanation for the instrumental reliability of the scientific method is discussed. It is argued that it is indeed the best explanation for the instrumental reliability of science if there are two aims of theory: epistemological and metaphysical.

In this episode, Goodman’s New Riddle of Induction is discussed as well as Boydian Natural Kind Theory. This podcast is inspired by Dr. Quayshawn Spencer and his Philosophy of Science class at the University of Pennsylvania. This podcast talks through whether Boyd’s Natural Kind Theory solves Goodman’s New Riddle of Induction. Moreover, it defends one way in which scientists can objectively defend their classifications and subsequent inductions.

In this episode, Taylor Swift’s newest re-release is discussed. First, the philosophical implication of her deciding to re-record is analyzed. She is on a venture to re-gain her agency and fruits of her labor. Secondly, specific lyrics of “All Too Well” and “Red” are philosophically analyzed. Notions of time, memory, and love are brought to the conversation.

In this episode, FOMO is discussed. The most pure source of happiness is considered (when it is not dependent on outsourcing to others). How does an individual conquer FOMO? Well, the individual should do philosophy as a way of life.

In this episode, Stoicism is discussed. Its compatibility with various experiences of human existence is evaluated. St. Augustine and his Confessions are discussed in light of Stoicism.

In this episode, capitalism and socialism are discussed and compared in regards their foundations and how they relate to principles fairness and equality. John Rawls’ justifications for the welfare state and for inequalities are analyzed. The contention that the justifications for inequality support Capitalist states better than Socialist states is held.

In this episode, social contract theory is discussed. Rationality is evaluated with a moral light. Why do should we hypothetically consent to the social contract? What is so bad about the state of nature that we must cooperate? The choice of whether to cooperate or not has to do with maximization —either straight-forward or constrained. Those are two competing views on rationality as well.

In this episode, general philosophy of mathematics and computer science is discussed. Interviewee, fellow Penn sophomore Thomas Rainow, has thought-provoking responses to classical philosophy questions. Is there inherent chaos or order in nature? How do people come to believe truths in absence of empirical evidence? Listen to hear the discussion on these matters.