Philosophical Entertainment

By Nirakara Vani

Our Origin Story:Philosophical Entertainment is a concept coined by Alan Watts, who referred to himself as a Philosophical Entertainer. Through listening to Watts, we decided to take up the mantra of ... more

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FAQs about Philosophical Entertainment:

How many episodes does Philosophical Entertainment have?

The podcast currently has 51 episodes available.

Philosophical Entertainment episodes:

August 11, 2024The Reality of Solipsism: Philosophical Paradoxes and Personal Identity
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
Season 2, Episode 8: The Reality of Solipsism: Philosophical Paradoxes and Personal Identity
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe
Episode Topic: The Reality of Solipsism: Philosophical Paradoxes and Personal Identity
Introduction to Philosophical Entertainment
Welcome to Philosophical Entertainment.
Brief overview of today’s episode focusing on identity, existence, and philosophical insights.
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe.
Exploring ‘I Think, Therefore I Am’
Examination of Descartes’ famous statement.
Discussion on the identity and meaning of “I” in the context of consciousness.
Zooming Out: Changing Perspectives
Analogy of zooming out from individual life to a galactic scale.
How changing perspectives alters the perception of reality and significance.
The Timeless Being and Human Existence
Consideration of the “I” as a timeless being.
How this concept impacts our understanding of existence and control.
Debating the Validity of ‘I Think, Therefore I Am’
Different interpretations and critiques of Descartes’ statement.
Philosophical debate on the minimal definition of existence and its implications.
Solipsism and Its Implications
Introduction to solipsism and its challenges.
Comparison with other belief systems and its potential impact on empathy and narcissism.
Lucid Dreaming and Reality
Personal anecdotes and experiences with lucid dreaming.
Discussion on dream logic, control, and how it relates to perceptions of reality.
Philosophical Perspectives on Reality
Examination of solipsism in the context of different religious and philosophical narratives.
Discussion on the concept of reality as a dream and its psychological implications.
Karma and Solipsism
Exploration of karma as action and its connection to solipsistic perspectives.
How karmic energy and experiences shape our understanding of existence.
Exploring Solipsism: The Matrix Dilemma
Challenges in investigating solipsism and the limitations of philosophical tools.
Discussion on the implications of living as if solipsism is true.
Existentialism: Freedom and Choice
Introduction to existentialism and its focus on individual freedom and choice.
Contrasting outcomes of existentialism versus solipsism.
Moral Responsibility and Personal Choices
How existentialism drives moral responsibility and the impact of personal choices.
Discussion on non-participation and its consequences in existentialist thought.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Encouragement for listeners to explore their own identities.
Steps for self-discovery, removing indoctrination, and finding authentic self.
Existential Questions: Are We Writing Our Own Story?
Examination of whether life events are predestined or shaped by individual choices.
Discussion on the impact of past experiences on current identity and future direction.
Philosophical Reflections and AI
Exploration of contemporary and future philosophical issues, including the role of artificial intelligence.
Brief discussion on the biomimetic nature of AI and its philosophical implications.
Concluding Thoughts: The Dance of Life
Reflection on solipsism, reality, and the art of living.
Philosophical insights on the value of creativity, the nature of reality, and the journey of existence.
Outro
Thanking the audience for joining the episode.
Teaser for the next episode and encouragement to reflect on discussed concepts.
Memorable Moments
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e8/inner-gem.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e8/Solipsist-or-narc.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e8/the-dance-of-life.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e8/the-sky-is-blue.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e8/the-universe.mp4
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Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
55min
July 27, 2024Exploring Identity: Childhood Reflections and Philosophical Insights
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
Season 2, Episode 7: Exploring Identity: Childhood Reflections and Philosophical Insights
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe
Episode Topic: Exploring Identity: Childhood Reflections and Philosophical Insights
Episode Overview
Introduction to Philosophical Entertainment:
Welcome listeners to the episode.
Introduce the two-part journey on the concept of identity.
Overview of what the episode will cover, including initial reflections on identity, personal anecdotes, and early experiences.
Early Reflections on Identity:
Matthew Mansfield discusses what sparked his interest in the concept of identity, starting with his childhood experience with Mormon baptism.
The struggle with the pressure to conform and the realization of personal boundaries and identity.
Childhood and Religious Influences:
Matthew and Nicholas discuss the impact of religious rituals, such as baptisms for the dead, on their understanding of identity.
Personal stories about the feeling of unease and boundary violations in their religious experiences.
Anecdote about Princess Diana and the consequences of submitting her name for posthumous baptism.
High School and Behavioral Psychology:
Nicholas Rowe shares his high school experiences and reflections on identity.
The disconnect between his actions and the expectations placed on him by his religious upbringing.
Temple Experiences and Controversies:
Discussing temple rituals and their impact on identity.
The controversy around performing posthumous baptisms for famous figures and its repercussions.
Midlife Crisis and Identity:
Nicholas reflects on his ongoing identity crisis and the societal pressures that contribute to early midlife crises.
The challenge of defining oneself beyond professional roles and societal expectations.
Philosophical Musings on Identity:
Matthew explores the concept of self-perception and the analogy of breathing.
Discussion on the role of external validation and the philosophical idea of self-referencing systems.
Terrence Howard’s Identity Crisis:
Examination of Terrence Howard’s controversial ideas and his attempt to redefine identity and reality.
The disconnect between Howard’s public persona and his philosophical claims.
The Cult of Pseudoscience:
Critique of public figures who promote pseudoscientific ideas for attention and validation.
The importance of scientific validation in maintaining credibility and truth.
Essential Oils and Miracle Cures:
Discussion on the claims made by proponents of essential oils and miracle cures.
The need for scientific validation and the risks of pseudoscience.
Terrence Howard’s Grand Unified Theory:
Analysis of Howard’s claims about his grand unified field theory and the lack of scientific backing.
The role of proper scientific channels and peer review in validating groundbreaking theories.
The Flower of Life and New Flight Technology:
Discussion on Howard’s proposed new form of flight technology and the scientific critique of his claims.
The importance of evidence-based science in technological advancements.
Philosophical Dynamics of Identity:
Exploration of the concept of identity from a philosophical standpoint.
Discussion on Rene Descartes’ “I think, therefore I am” and its implications.
The difference between self-identity and societal perception.
The impact of solipsism and the inability to know the absolute truth about reality.
The Nature of Reality and Perception:
Theoretical discussion on the nature of reality and perception.
The challenges of distinguishing between appearances and underlying reality.
Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser:
Recap of the key points discussed in the episode.
Teaser for the next episode, which will delve deeper into the philosophical nuances of identity and technology.
Encouragement for listeners to reflect on their own experiences and identity.
Memorable Moments
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e7/The-Mystery-of-Reality_Can-We-Ever-Truly-Know_p1.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e7/The-Mystery-of-Terrence-Howards-Intuitive-Insight-p1.mp4
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Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
47min
July 15, 2024Navigating the Illusion: Determinism and Free Will in Societal Constructs
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
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Season 2, Episode 6: Navigating the Illusion: Determinism and Free Will in Societal Constructs
Introduction
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe
Episode Title: Navigating the Illusion: Determinism and Free Will in Societal Constructs
Brief Overview: Introduction by Joanne, setting the stage for an exploration of how societal structures influence personal autonomy and the perception of free will.
Main Content
Segment 1: The Illusion of Free Will
Discussion Points:
Definitions and traditional views on free will and determinism.
How societal norms and structures can create an illusion of choice.
Philosophical perspectives supporting the concept of determinism.
Segment 2: Societal Constructs and Individual Agency
Discussion Points:
Examination of specific societal constructs (like government, economy, culture) and their impact on individual decisions.
Real-life examples where individual choices are heavily influenced by external pressures.
Debate on whether true autonomy is achievable within structured societies.
Segment 3: The Role of Power and Control
Discussion Points:
Analysis of how power dynamics within a society enforce or restrict free will.
The concept of “invisible chains” — economic, political, and social factors that limit personal freedom.
The role of leadership and governance in shaping the behavior and decisions of individuals.
Segment 4: Moral Responsibility and Determinism
Discussion Points:
Ethical implications of living in a deterministic world.
How should responsibility be assigned if actions are predetermined by societal factors?
The impact of believing in determinism on personal and societal ethics.
Philosophical Reflections
Discussion Points:
Reflect on key philosophical ideas discussed by famous thinkers regarding determinism and free will.
Connection of these ideas to contemporary issues and personal experiences shared by the hosts.
Conclusion
Summary:
Recap of the discussion, highlighting key insights on free will versus determinism within societal constructs.
Reflective questions posed to the audience to ponder their own experiences and beliefs.
Episode Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
38min
July 07, 2024The Illusion of Free Will and the Reality of Determinism
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
Season 2, Episode 5: The Illusion of Free Will and the Reality of Determinism
Introduction
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe
Episode Topic: The Illusion of Free Will and the Reality of Determinism
Main Content
Discussion on the Nature of Reality and Perception:
Exploration of Determinism vs. Free Will:
Dialogue between Matthew and Nicholas on how society often confuses free will with determinism, using examples from daily life and philosophical thought.
Discussion on how deterministic frameworks influence our understanding of free will, with Nicholas providing insights from a philosophical standpoint.
The Role of External Influences:
Identity and Societal Constructs:
Examination of how identity is molded by societal expectations and the unseen forces of our environment, with Matthew steering the conversation towards personal and collective identity.
Analysis of how societal structures, like capitalism, shape our perceptions and decisions, illustrated with real-world examples and historical context by Nicholas.
Perceptions of Money and Value:
Money as a Social Construct:
Deep dive into the concept of money as merely a representation of perceived value rather than tangible wealth, with a philosophical twist by Nicholas.
Discussion on how this perception impacts societal outcomes and individual behaviors, drawing on both hosts’ experiences and broader societal observations.
Reflection on Philosophical and Practical Implications:
Impacts on Individual Actions and Societal Structures:
Exploration of how these philosophical insights affect our everyday decisions and the larger societal landscape.
Debate between the hosts on whether knowing this changes how we should live our lives, with a focus on ethical implications and personal responsibility.
Conclusion
Summary:
Recap of discussions on the nature of free will, the impact of societal constructs on perception, and how these shape our reality.
Final thoughts from both hosts, emphasizing the complexity of distinguishing between what is real and what is perceived in our decision-making processes.
Memorable Moments
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/S2/s2e5/Highlight-Reel_s2e5.mp4
Ways to listen
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Episode Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
40min
June 23, 2024Unraveling Free Will: A Journey Through Identity and Determinism
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
Introduction
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Hosts: Matthew Mansfield and Nicholas Rowe
Episode Topic: Unraveling Free Will: A Journey Through Identity and Determinism
Main Content
Exploration of Free Will:
Discussion on the traditional views of free will versus determinism, facilitated by both hosts.
Insights from interactions with AI to illustrate programmed versus spontaneous responses, with input from Nicholas on technical aspects.
Identity and Influence:
Examination of how identity is shaped by both internal and external influences, with Matthew leading the discussion.
Cultural and philosophical perspectives on the fluidity and construct of identity, with Nicholas providing additional historical context.
Determinism and Its Implications:
Deep dive into the concept of determinism and its impact on personal agency, discussed collaboratively.
Exploration of how this perspective challenges our notions of morality and ethics, with a debate format between the hosts.
Philosophical Reflections:
Reflection on key philosophical debates and thinkers from history to the modern day, led by Nicholas.
Discussion on the resonance of these philosophical ideas in contemporary issues and personal life, with personal anecdotes from Matthew.
Conclusion
Summary:
Recap of the discussion on free will, determinism, and identity, highlighting key points.
Memorable Moments
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/E4/diversion.mp4
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/E4/time-traveler.mp4
Ways to listen
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Episode Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
27min
June 12, 2024Religion and its Relationship to Enlightenment
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
Season 2, Episode 2: Religion and its Relationship to Enlightenment
In this episode, we will discuss:
Introduction
Podcast Title: Philosophical Entertainment
Host: Matthew Mansfield
Episode Topic: Religion and its Relationship to Enlightenment
Main Content
Personal Anecdote: Host’s comment on never meeting a decent police officer.
Explanation of “decent”: fairly good, adequate, or satisfactory, and devoid of corruption.
Experience in stand-up comedy taught host that jokes should come from personal experience and identity.
Police Officers:
Host believes decency is compromised by the nature of police work.
Police officers are trained and permitted by law (case law) to use deception during interrogations.
Comparison to a man at a party who is only nice to steal a watch, highlighting lack of transparency and honesty.
Decency and Virtue:
Host argues that performing a non-virtuous act to achieve a virtuous goal undermines true virtue.
Mention of a Chinese proverb about the right means being used by the wrong man.
Racism in Police Culture:
Police may claim to hate everyone equally to deflect accusations of racism.
Discussion on the self-definition of police as “good guys” and the analogy of shoving cake down someone’s throat.
Mormons and Decency:
Host has never met a decent Mormon.
Criticism of Mormon beliefs and practices, such as tithing and attempts to convert others.
Comparison to a scenario where someone is nice to steal your wallet.
Religion and Enlightenment
Jesus’ Teachings:
Matthew 15:8 about lips honoring but hearts being far from honesty.
Enlightenment as spiritual awareness and alignment of intent with behavior.
Mahayana Buddhism:
Enlightened beings escape the cycle of rebirth (Samsara).
Importance of breaking out of self-referencing cycles to achieve enlightenment.
Paradoxes and Understanding Life:
Breaking attachment to understand life from an external perspective.
Analogy of police officer pretending to resign and rehire without truly leaving the system.
Masks and Trauma:
Children are honest and decent because they don’t wear masks.
Trauma causes changes in personas and creates masks.
Personal story of host’s traumatic experience with his son’s hypoglycemic seizure.
Conclusion
Summary:
Decency is tied to honesty, transparency, and true intent.
Both religious and everyday behaviors can lack decency if intent and actions don’t align.
Enlightenment involves breaking out of self-referential cycles and understanding life from an external perspective.
Ways to listen
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51min
June 12, 2024 Philosophical Entertainment Trailer
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
A trailer to remember
https://philosophicalentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/trailer/Philosophical-Entertainment-Trailer.mp4
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Episode Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
3min
June 03, 2024EPISODE THREE: Are You in or Out of the Box?
If you’re not philosophically entertained, our entertainment is only philosophical.
EPISODE THREE: Are You in or Out, of the Box?
In this episode, we will discuss:
A friend going to India; past lives; The Timeless Being; using the future for your benefit
An ego’s journey – the virgin pornstar and pulling your way out of a Chinese finger trap
We cast our language over the world; words are symbols
Our words trap our thinking by outlining the boundaries of things
The corporate box thinker’s spiral
How to turn off the thought stream
A quiet mind is how you find out who you are
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Matthew Mansfield | Host
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45min
December 18, 2022BONUS EPISODE: Special Holiday Episode
Topics of Discussion
An interview with Tawnya.
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Matthew Mansfield | Host
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36min
June 11, 2022EPISODE ONE: Suicide; Kill or Be Killed?
Topics of Discussion
The clay model of the Universe. A discussion about our “common sense” understanding of the way things work.
The removal of God from Science and the remainder of God’s Word. Discussion about how God has been surgically removed from science and how some parts of God remain.
The Christian American sin of murder. A discussion about innocence and guilt.
Myths about suicide. A discussion about the various myths which have contributed to more fear about suicide.
The dangerous thinking of first responders. How their training dictates how they treat you.
It can happen to anyone. A discussion about how a non-violent person could commit suicide.
Ways to listen
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Episode Cast & Crew

Matthew Mansfield | Host
Nicholas Rowe | Co-Host
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...more
50min

FAQs about Philosophical Entertainment:

How many episodes does Philosophical Entertainment have?

The podcast currently has 51 episodes available.