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This episode explores the complexities of grief during festive seasons, focusing on the interplay between love, loss, and holiday traditions. Insights from bell hooks highlight the importance of love as an action, while discussions on technology's impact on mourning encourage listeners to consider their relationships with grief and community.

• Discussing the emotional landscape of holiday traditions
• The contrast of summer festivities in Australia with feelings of grief
• Exploring the concept of death bots and digital mourning
• bell hooks' perspective on love as a verb
• The role of societal rituals in processing loss
• Examining issues of empathy in global conflicts
• Encouraging solidarity through small, actionable steps

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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Is "cheeky" the most overused word in our everyday vocabulary? We kick things off with a humorous exploration of this label being slapped on everything from muesli bars to sports drinks. As we chuckle through language missteps, we also tackle an advertisement from the Victorian Cancer Council that boldly claims "one in two is too many." This prompts a serious reflection on the effectiveness of such messaging in cancer awareness and the potential for these tactics to oversimplify complex issues. 

Switching gears, we dive into the evolving landscape of breast cancer advocacy, spotlighting Andrea Smith’s push for visibility for those living with long-term metastatic breast cancer. Our conversation then takes a critical turn as we dissect a controversial UK government proposal advocating weight loss injections to reduce obesity-related unemployment. By unpacking the assumptions and socio-economic factors tied into this initiative, we raise questions about the erosion of public trust in health policies. Join us for this lively mix of humor, skepticism, and truth-seeking.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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Is solidarity in healthcare a double-edged sword? That’s the intriguing question we explore with our returning guest, Pete West-Oram. In this episode, we dissect how solidarity can both unite and divide, especially when misinformation—what Pete candidly refers to as "bullshit"—pervades public discourse. With a focus on healthcare ethics, we discuss the destabilizing power of dishonest communication and its impact on societal issues like the genocide in Gaza, where language is often wielded to distort reality.

The conversation broadens to consider global solidarity in times of geopolitical conflict, spotlighting the contrasting international reactions to the Russian invasion of Ukraine versus the ongoing situation in Palestine. We question the biases in media narratives and political responses, illustrating how they can obscure true solidarity efforts. Despite media noise and leadership failures, Pete and I champion the grassroots movements and community solidarity that emerged during crises like COVID-19, urging for more substantial support from authorities to sustain these efforts.

We then turn to the essential role of transparent communication in healthcare, drawing insights from Harry Frankfurt’s "On Bullshit." With emphasis on the importance of clarity, we consider how misinformation and epistemic injustices, as discussed by Miranda Fricker, can lead to issues like vaccine hesitancy. By highlighting examples such as the UK's NHS and the impactful work of the Patient Information Forum, we stress the necessity of accessible health information. Whether it’s through multilingual resources or straightforward language, the goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed health decisions, fostering trust and combating confusion.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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What if the key to equitable healthcare lies in the power of solidarity? Join us as we explore this profound question with Dr. Peter West-Oram, a senior lecturer in bioethics, who offers a nuanced perspective on the intersections of history, ethics, and politics in healthcare. Through his expertise, we tackle the pressing issues of systemic racism laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic and examine the philosophical underpinnings of global health justice. Dr. West-Oram sheds light on the social determinants of health and the complex web of responsibilities shouldered by governments and corporations in combating systemic inequality.

Embark on a reflective journey through Dr. West-Oram's academic career, from his early fascination with political and moral philosophy to his impactful work in bioethics. We revisit his 2017 paper on the ramifications of repealing Obamacare, where he argues for a healthcare system that enhances freedom through solidarity. Together, we ponder shared global challenges such as climate change and pandemics, urging collective action that champions our common humanity.

Our conversation navigates the delicate balance between personal liberty and societal cooperation, questioning the narratives that often skew public perception against socialized healthcare. From the ethics of mandatory treatments to the emotive rhetoric surrounding healthcare reform, Dr. West-Oram challenges us to rethink the narratives that shape public opinion and underscores the importance of solidarity in achieving equitable healthcare outcomes. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that dares to challenge preconceived notions and advocate for a more just distribution of healthcare resources.

 Sounds

• Circus jingle loop by SergeyShred -- https://freesound.org/s/741150/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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What if the key to safer medicines lies in the blood of an ancient, alien-looking creature? Join us as we uncover the fascinating world of horseshoe crabs with our special guest, Richard Gorman. Rich's journey from human geography to animal ethics opens up a riveting discussion about the ethical implications of using animals in healthcare and the pivotal role horseshoe crabs play in pharmaceuticals. You'll be surprised to learn how these ancient creatures, often overlooked, are indispensable to the safety of vaccines and injectable medicines.

We take a deep dive into the ethics surrounding the collection of horseshoe crab blood, comparing it to laboratory animal practices and fishery management. Rich helps us navigate the complexities of managing horseshoe crabs as a wild species and addresses the public's lack of awareness about animal-derived products in medicine. From their unique biology to the cultural perceptions that shape our interactions with them, we explore the many layers of horseshoe crabs' significance in global health.

Finally, we examine the broader ethical and regulatory frameworks, discussing the "Three Rs" principle and the consequences of synthetic alternatives. Rich shares his insights on the hidden but crucial process of Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) tests and the challenges of balancing economic interests with conservation efforts. Reflecting on the importance of these incredible creatures, we encourage listeners to think more deeply about our reliance on them and the ethical dimensions involved. This episode promises to be both enlightening and thought-provoking, shedding light on the often-overlooked more-than-human world.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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What if bringing cake to work is as harmful as passive smoking? Join us for a thought-provoking exploration with our special guest, Sarah Attinger, as she shares her innovative approach to workplace treats. We dive deep into the public health implications of these sweet gestures and navigate a moral dilemma involving found cigarettes, debating the ethics of discarding them versus giving them to a smoker. Sarah, a research assistant at Sydney University and Macquarie, offers her unique perspective on these everyday ethical quandaries.

Moving from the breakroom to the courtroom, we dissect the $56 million settlement involving Monash IVF and the fallout from inaccurate genetic testing. This gripping chapter uncovers allegations against Repromed, a Monash IVF subsidiary, accused of forging patient signatures and falsifying clinical trial results. Despite the settlement, Monash IVF did not admit liability. We discuss the wider implications of non-invasive pre-implantation genetic testing and consider the need for stricter regulations in the fertility industry, shedding light on the complexities and emotional toll of such cases.

In our final discussion, we tackle the intricate world of reproductive medicine ethics, examining everything from procreative beneficence to the legal repercussions of the Monash IVF settlement. Sarah helps us understand the philosophical and commercial aspects of embryo selection, emphasizing the ethical tightrope healthcare providers must walk. We also delve into the contentious issue of league tables and how they impact embryo positioning and development. This episode promises to be a captivating journey through some of the most pressing issues in healthcare and public health today.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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What happens when religion, politics, and reproductive rights collide? Join us in this thought-provoking episode of Undisciplinary, featuring Risa Cromer, an Associate Professor in Anthropology at Purdue University. Risa takes us on her unique journey from a secular upbringing to studying the powerful intersections of religious politics and reproductive rights. Together, we explore the complex landscape of reproductive justice, revealing how reproductive capacities become battlegrounds for power and control.

Ever wondered what sets embryo adoption apart from sperm or embryo donation? We break down its origins, deeply rooted in American evangelism, and the political forces driving its popularity. Risa illuminates the technicalities of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the specific, often costly requirements for embryo adoption, including the crucial but under-discussed home study process. Through this lens, we also examine the commercialization and ethical issues tied to embryo adoption, highlighting the tension between its idealistic mission and the reality of "embryo shopping."

Finally, we unravel the complex ties between embryo adoption, anti-abortion politics, and Christian nationalism. By connecting the dots between the promotion of a "culture of life" and broader authoritarian agendas, we reflect on the implications in a post-Roe v Wade landscape marked by varying state-level abortion restrictions. This episode offers a deep dive into how these reproductive politics resonate with themes of racial justice, gender, and the right to know one's biological heritage, inviting listeners to critically engage with these pressing issues.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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**Below was generated by AI and doesn't really have much to do with what we actually talked about!**

Curious about how American English phrases like "it's been a minute" are shaping everyday language? Join us as we explore this playful debate and kick things off with an engaging discussion. We also introduce an exciting new feature that lets you send us anonymous text messages through Apple Podcasts and Spotify, making it easier than ever to share your thoughts. Plus, don't miss my shout-out to Pat McConville's new podcast, "Concept Art," and my experience of being featured on it, along with Jane's thrilling update on her new role as co-editor-in-chief of the Research Ethics Journal.

We then pivot to the ethical nuances of using ChatGPT for qualitative data, reflecting on how it mirrors everyday opinions shaped by the internet. Diving into the role of research ethics committees, we question whether their primary function is to protect institutions or to facilitate meaningful research. Drawing from personal experiences, we highlight the diverse cultures of various ethics committees and discuss H. Tristam Engelhardt Jr.'s critique of market solutions in secular humanist bioethics. Finally, we tackle the unsettling practice of using AI to recreate deceased loved ones, inspired by the documentary "Eternal You," and explore its broader implications for cultural death rituals and commercial interests.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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Discover the commerical forces shaping our health as Dr. Mélissa Mialon describes the intricate web woven by large agri-food companies to influence health policies and sway public opinion. Our latest episode is a deep dive into the world where corporate interests meet public health, uncovering the stealthy methods these corporations use to assert their agenda. Dr. Mialon guides us through the labyrinth of systemic racism and the convolutions of the current healthcare system, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, while offering actionable strategies to dismantle these harmful influences.

Grapple with the double-edged sword of corporate social responsibility; is it a genuine effort towards societal betterment or a smokescreen for deeper systemic issues? Dr. Mialon aids us in peeling back layers of corporate strategies to reveal the true motivations behind initiatives that often present themselves as benevolent. Our conversation takes a critical turn towards the interplay between capitalism and public welfare, stirring a debate on whether a capitalist system can ever truly align with the interests of public health over profit. We also address the imperative need for transparency in the corporate influence on public policy, highlighting global approaches to democracy that can either impede or foster progress.

In conclusion, we reflect on the collective power of grassroots movements. The episode leaves listeners inspired by the influence that dedicated individuals and communities can exert on holding corporations accountable.  Join us for a conversation that not only challenges but also encourages each of us to actively participate in the movement towards a healthier, more equitable world.

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]

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**The below is AI generated**

Have you ever navigated the intricate dance of power and humility within the walls of a healthcare institution? Our latest episode features Dr. Supriya Subramani, shedding light on the ethical ballet between patients and doctors, infused with moral emotions and identity politics. As we weave through her interdisciplinary insights, Jane's battle with COVID offers a raw, firsthand perspective on these health research themes, grounding our discussion in the reality of patient experiences.

Tackling the heavy lifting in academia, this episode isn't afraid to question the pillars of knowledge creation and the researcher's place within it. We cast a critical eye on reflexivity, dissecting how our backgrounds and biases shape our understanding. The creases of feminist scholarship and standpoint epistemology unfold in our dialogue, as we probe the intricate relationship between authority and the diverse voices that strive to be heard within scholarly circles.

We round off our journey with a step into the quagmire of bioethics, informed consent, and the architecture of healthcare systems. Dr. Subramani's reflections from Indian hospitals pave the path for our exploration, examining how respect, privacy, and privilege are dispensed in medical care. As we tie up the threads of our conversation, we leave you with an invitation to continue these essential discussions, challenging the norms and shaping an informed, ethical landscape in health research and beyond.

• Audio excerpt of Helen Pluckrose from ABC RN  Grievance studies, thought and debate
• Subramani, S. (2019). Practising reflexivity: Ethics, methodology and theory construction. Methodological Innovations, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/2059799119863276 

Undisciplinary - a podcast that talks across the boundaries of history, ethics, and the politics of health.
Follow us on Twitter @undisciplinary_ or email questions for "mailbag episodes" [email protected]