The Dark History of Eugenics, AI Ethics & Transhumanism with Prof. Rob Wilson on Rational Grounds

This episode blends academic curiosity, moral urgency, and philosophical intrigue.

What does it mean to be human in an age of AI and transhumanism? In this deep, mind-bending episode of Rational Grounds, Professor Rob Wilson — UWA's Professor of Philosophy — unpacks everything from the dark legacy of eugenics to the future of race, disability, AI ethics, and kinship. With stories from Nazi Germany to modern Canada and Australia, this conversation challenges assumptions about progress, identity, and morality in science and society.

📘 Rob’s new book Kin Matters will be out latter this year through Oxford University Press. in the meantime you can find an abstract and pdf here: https://philarchive.org/rec/WILKMR

(00:00:00) Intro – Welcome to Rational Grounds with Prof. Rob Wilson

(00:01:00) Rob’s working-class roots & accidental discovery of philosophy

(00:04:00) First exposure to philosophy through a school detour

(00:06:00) The meaning of “I think, therefore I am”

(00:09:00) Rob’s turn to philosophy of science

(00:10:00) Kinship, incest, and anthropology – preview of Kin Matters

(00:13:30) What are “the fragile sciences”?

(00:17:00) Eugenics explained: history, ideology, and moral danger

(00:22:00) Cultural eugenics in Australia vs. sterilization in Nazi Germany

(00:26:00) Canada's eugenics program – personal stories & sterilization boards

(00:28:00) The Alberta lawsuits & survivor testimonies

(00:33:00) Intergenerational trauma & Indigenous Australia

(00:36:00) Is race biological? Skin tone and the myth of genetic categories

(00:39:00) Disability, desirability & ethics of genetic screening

(00:42:00) Race generalizations vs. scientific complexity

(00:46:00) Transhumanism: Better humans or deeper inequality?

(00:50:00) Billionaires, Mars & the politics of technological utopias

(00:53:00) Who really benefits from new tech?

(00:56:00) Vaccine skepticism, autism fears & public responsibility

(00:58:00) Final thoughts on eugenics, ethics, and philosophical vigilance

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In this compelling episode of Rational Grounds, I sit down with Perth rap artist Bitter Belief to explore the intersections of religion, ethics, and politics in both his music and his life.

We discuss his journey to faith, starting with a profound moment in Bali that led him to embrace Christianity and find deeper purpose. Bitter Belief shares how his belief in God has reshaped his creative process, steering him further toward authenticity and away from the shallow pursuits of the entertainment industry.

We also tackle ethical questions about the responsibility of artists. Are rappers accountable for the moral impact of their lyrics? Is it possible to balance commercial success with staying true to one’s values? Bitter Belief opens up about his own prior struggles with hedonism.

On the political front, we examine how societal trends, the pressures of fake celebrity culture, and the rapid consumption of media influence both the creation and perception of art.

Bitter Belief believes in creating music that stands apart from the noise and i’m very keen to hear his upcoming album and interested to see him carve this new path.

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TIMESTAMPS

An explosive conversation with Russian boxing legend Victor Oganov on navigating politics, societal pressures, and staying true to oneself.

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How does one navigate a world divided by power, ideology, and culture? In this fantastic episode of the Rational Grounds Podcast, I sit down with Russian boxing legend Victor Oganov to explore the battlefields outside the ring. We dive deep into the contrasts between Russia and the West, shedding light on Vladimir Putin’s enigmatic leadership and the challenges of global geopolitics.

Victor offers rare insights into life under sanctions, the resilience of the Russian people, and the cultural dynamics that shape their unwavering loyalty. We also discuss Australia’s social fabric, examining issues of racism, assimilation, and the immigrant experience through Victor’s sharp lens.

Throughout this conversation, we tackle hard-hitting questions: What drives societal decay in modern democracies? How does religion evolve as a cultural cornerstone amidst growing secularism? Why do certain governments, whether in Russia, the West, or elsewhere, aim to suppress individual freedom in favour of compliance?

This episode isn’t just about politics—it’s about the human spirit, identity, and the power dynamics that define our world. Whether you're fascinated by geopolitics, boxing, or stories of resilience, this discussion with Victor Oganov will leave you questioning the narratives you’ve been told.

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In this episode, Cameron Branch, comedian and co-host of The Hard Yarn Podcast, discusses his transformative spiritual journey, including an encounter with "God" during a guided mushroom trip, leading to profound self-discovery and healing. Cameron explores the concept of "returning to zero," a philosophy centered on shedding trauma and limiting beliefs to live authentically. The episode also delves into his comedy career, podcast growth, and views on faith. Thought-provoking and reflective, this conversation offers insights into faith, purpose, and self-awareness.

Episode Article:

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tahlia Casella, an 11-year-old Jiu-Jitsu world champion from Perth, Western Australia, and the future of Australian Jiu-Jitsu. Tahlia shares her journey from starting in the sport to dominating on the world stage.

We also dive deep into an important conversation for parents: how to encourage and support your child in competitive sports without pushing them too hard. Tahlia's insights, along with her experience and perspective, will provide valuable advice to parents on nurturing their kids' passions while keeping the fun and love for the sport alive. Whether your child is just starting or already competing, this episode is packed with tips and stories that will resonate with every sports family.

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In this compelling episode, I sit down with Grady Stewart, an American pioneer in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Grady shares his incredible journey from touring the globe with legendary fighter Ken Shamrock to bringing the sport of MMA to Perth, Western Australia. As a promoter, he made waves in the industry by bringing top-tier fighters like Tito Ortiz and Rashad Evans to Australian shores.

However, Grady’s story takes a dramatic turn as he recounts his arrest and subsequent three-year imprisonment for cocaine trafficking. He opens up about his experience behind bars, including being forced to take the COVID-19 vaccine, and his shocking revelations about pedophilia among the Western Australian prison staff.

This episode is a raw, unfiltered look into the highs and lows of Grady’s life, offering an eye-opening perspective on the world of MMA, the criminal justice system, and the dark secrets lurking within.

Don't miss this powerful conversation that dives deep into a story of resilience, redemption, and the fight for truth.

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Joel Jammal is a prominent right-wing political commentator in Australia, known for his incisive analysis and outspoken views on national and international political issues. As the leader of Turning Point Australia, Jammal has been at the forefront of promoting conservative values and policies, inspiring a new generation of politically active Australians.

Jammal's influence extends beyond traditional media. He has played a significant role in bringing influential conservative voices to Australia, such as orchestrating Nigel Farage's tour. However, his efforts to bring Donald Trump Jr. to the country were thwarted by the Australian government, highlighting the contentious nature of his political endeavors.

In his latest venture, 'The ARK', Jammal hosts a news show that delves deeply into Australian politics, covering both state and federal elections. The podcast provides a platform for discussing his past, his perspectives on the political landscape in Australia, and a range of pressing topics, including the Israel vs. Palestine conflict, minimum wage debates, and more.

Joel Jammal continues to shape the political discourse in Australia with his bold commentary and unwavering commitment to his conservative principles.

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Today we sit down with formidable UFC Middleweight Fighter, Jacob Malkoun. Nick Named 'Mamba', Jacob not only holds multiple wins in the UFC but also boasts accolades such as winning the ADCC Asia Trials and the Pan Pacific Gold in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, alongside a 3-0 in professional boxing record.

In this deep dive, Jacob shares the captivating journey of his transition from playing NRL during his early teens to his full pivot into the world of combat sports. He opens up about pivotal moments, inspirations, and the relentless drive that propelled him into the octagon. We’ll also get an insider's look into Jacob's rigorous training regimen, his diet and recovery strategies that keep him fight-ready, and how he maintains peak physical and mental condition year-round.

Plus, don’t miss out as Jacob gives us the scoop on his current preparation and mindset for his upcoming bouts, revealing the fighters he's setting his sights on next.

Whether you’re a die-hard MMA fan or just love a great story of determination and strategy, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration from one of Australia's main combat sports rising stars. Tune in to catch all the action inside and outside the ring with Jacob Malkoun!

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In this riveting episode of our podcast, we sit down with the remarkable Adele Fornarino, a trailblazer in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Australia's premier female athlete in the discipline. Not only does Adele hold the prestigious title at America's Grapple Fest, but she has also spectacularly defended it, showcasing her exceptional skills and indomitable spirit on the mat. Further solidifying her legacy, Adele recently etched her name into the annals of FloGrappling's Who's Number One (WNO) Competition by securing the fastest submission recorded in the event's history, a testament to her agility, technique, and quick-thinking under pressure.

Adele's aspirations soar beyond her current accolades as she sets her sights on dual dominance in both the 115lb and 125lb weight classes. In a bold move, she calls out the reigning 115lb champion, signaling her intentions to reshape the landscape of women's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This episode dives deep into Adele's journey, exploring the intricate tapestry of dedication, ambition, and resilience that propels her towards these lofty goals.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of high-level competition as Adele shares her holistic approach to success. We discuss:

Mentality: Unpacking the psychological fortitude required to excel in BJJ, Adele reveals how she cultivates a winning mindset, handles the pressures of competition, and stays motivated amidst the highs and lows of her career.

Training: Delve into Adele's rigorous training regimen, including her techniques, strategies, and how she adapts her preparation for different opponents and competitions. She also touches on the importance of cross-training and how it contributes to her overall performance.

Recovery: Adele emphasizes the critical role of recovery in an athlete's routine, sharing her personal recovery methods and how they are integrated into her training schedule to maximize performance and prevent injuries.

Nutrition: Learn about the nutritional strategies that fuel a champion. Adele discusses her approach to diet, hydration, and supplementation, providing listeners with a glimpse into the dietary discipline required to compete at the highest levels of BJJ.

The Sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Beyond personal achievements, Adele offers her perspective on the evolution of BJJ, particularly in the women's division. She reflects on the growth of the sport, its increasing popularity, and the impact of role models like herself on inspiring the next generation of female athletes.

This episode is not only a deep dive into the life and ambitions of a top-tier athlete but also a comprehensive look at the components of success in the demanding world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a budding competitor, or simply fascinated by the dedication it takes to excel in a combat sport, Adele's story and insights are bound to inspire and educate. Join us as we explore the journey of a true champion, paving her way to greatness, one submission at a time.

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In this episode, we are joined by John. He is the owner and creator of "raw meat experiment". A Page dedicated to the experience of eating Raw Meat directly from the packet. His “raw meat experiment” videos have truly gone viral, with some reaching up to eight million views. However, John has decided to eat Raw Chicken now on a new page called "raw chicken experiment" and in just two weeks his page has doubled his previous with videos reaching over 12 Million Views.

We delve into his transition from veganism to a diet centered around raw meat, exploring his perspectives on factory farming versus the benefits of grass-fed, pasture-raised, and regenerative agriculture. We also cover his views on raw milk, seed oils, the controversy surrounding meat consumption, and much more!

This was a great discussion.

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