This episode of 'The Young and the Wise' delves into the intriguing world of philosophy. We’re joined by philosophy experts Martin Pickavé, a medieval philosophy professor at the University of Toronto, and Jim John, an associate professor also at the University of Toronto with interests in Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science. The conversation explores the reasons behind choosing to study philosophy, the broad career paths it offers, and the misconceptions surrounding it. We discuss emerging fields in philosophy, AI and ethics, and controversial philosophical stances. Shoutout to the Leaside High School philosophy club for contributing questions! 

00:00 Introduction

01:41 Exploring the Philosophical Journey: How and Why to Choose Philosophy

03:54 Philosophy in the Modern World: Careers, AI, and Beyond

10:52 Deep Dive into Experts' Minds: Medieval Philosophy and Philosophy of Mind

23:32 The Reality of Consciousness: Debating What's Real

25:19 Exploring Consciousness and AI

26:39 Philosophy's Big Questions: Agency and Free Will

30:08 Tackling Anti-Intellectualism in Philosophy

33:19 The Challenge of Teaching Philosophy

34:59 Philosophical Disagreements: A Feature, Not a Bug

37:42 Quick Fire Questions: Philosophers' Favourites and Controversies

42:06 Identifying Philosophical Frameworks: Is It Necessary?

43:36 Book Recommendations for Philosophy Beginners

47:52 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements