In this episode of Brain in a Vat, Georgi Gardiner returns to explore the epistemic value of tarot: its capacity to shape self-understanding, spark creative reflection, and influence major life decisions. Drawing on personal experience and philosophical analysis, Georgi examines how tarot can serve as a mirror for introspection while also raising concerns about confirmation bias and self-deception. The discussion also considers the history and diversity of tarot practices, and compares tarot wit...
Jun 29, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this episode, Brain in a Vat is joined by public philosopher and author Agnes Callard to explore the relevance of philosophy in everyday life. Drawing from her work on Socrates, Agnes makes a case for why philosophical inquiry matters, now more than ever. From the pig farmer analogy to Socratic love, this conversation is a deep dive into how philosophy is a way of life. Chapters: [00:00] Introduction to the Guest and Topic [00:44] The Monologue vs. Dialogue Experiment [06:50] Philosophical Tr...
Jun 22, 2025•55 min
Are Jews entitled to their own homeland? Is the Israeli response to the massacre of civilians perpetrated by Hamas on October 7th justified? Should there be a ceasefire? David's Article in Quillette: https://quillette.com/2023/10/21/its-not-the-occupation/ Raja Halwani wrote to us about Jason's exposition of his view at 33:06. Here is Raja's clarification: **I wanted to clarify a point that Jason made during the interview with David Benatar. Jason asked Benatar what he thought of the view that “...
Jun 15, 2025•59 min
In this episode of Brain in a Vat, we examine two competing political visions through an AI debate between Plato and Robert Nozick. Plato defends rule by philosopher kings and a unified society, while Nozick argues for individual liberty and a minimal state. Following our previous episode featuring Mill and Kant, we continue investigating major philosophical divides through thought experiments like the Allegory of the Cave and the Experience Machine. The episode considers justice, autonomy, and ...
Jun 08, 2025•48 min
Should we be allowed to sell our organs on the open market? Would the poor be exploited under such a system? And does organ donation impose an unfair burden on the relatives of those that need a transplant? Check out FeedSpot's list of 90 best philosophy podcasts, where Brain in a Vat is ranked at 15, here: https://podcast.feedspot.com/philosophy_podcasts/
Jun 01, 2025•1 hr 14 min
Eric Sampson and Rebecca Tuvel explore the contested issue of academic freedom. They discuss the tensions that emerge when universities try to balance the promotion of diverse intellectual perspectives with concerns over potential harm to community members, as seen in controversies involving figures like philosopher Peter Singer. Drawing on debates about gender, race, and ethics, they analyze the institutional challenges of fostering open inquiry while ensuring a safe and respectful academic env...
May 25, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Connor examines involuntary commitment, substance abuse disorders, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding parenting and children's welfare. Should children be allowed to transition genders? When is the state justified in removing children from harmful environments? And what is the role of non-parental caregivers in a child's life? Join us for this thought-provoking episode that pushes the boundaries of our intuitions and ethical considerations around children's rights. [00:00] Introduction and Gue...
May 18, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Jared Millson delves into the intriguing world of conspiracy theories, exploring well-known cases like Pizzagate and lesser-known but historically significant events such as the COINTELPRO. The discussion spans the definitions and philosophical debates about what constitutes a conspiracy theory, the criteria for evaluating these theories, and the psychological and sociopolitical impacts they have on society. Tune in to understand why some conspiracy theories should not be immediately dismissed a...
May 11, 2025•58 min
Peter Singer delves into difficult ethical questions regarding animal rights, the morality of factory farming, and difficult human-related ethical dilemmas. Singer discusses his views as a consequentialist, examining the impact of our choices on animal suffering, the ethical considerations around organ donation from anencephalic children, and the broader implications of such decisions. What are the moral implications of eating meat from factory farms versus ethically raised animals, and cannibal...
May 04, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Jess Flanigan argues that personal income tax is illegitimate. But is the state ever justified in extracting money from its population to pay for public goods? Are property taxes and privatization of state functions better options? And if taxes are illegitimate, are we permitted, or even obligated, to stop paying our taxes? [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [02:40] Justifying Taxes for Public Goods [03:40] Alternative Tax Systems [07:27] The Egalitarian Distribution Debate [13:15] The ...
Apr 27, 2025•55 min
If most voters are misinformed, is democracy legitimate? What sort of voting system should we have in its place? And should some votes count more than others? [00:00] Introduction to the Problems of Democracy [00:17] Brexit: A Case Study in Misinformed Voting [05:33] Voter Behavior: Social Benefits and Signaling [18:29] The Legitimacy of Democratic Systems [30:32] The Challenge of Political Incentives [33:02] The Abortion Debate and Judicial Power [36:41] Depoliticizing Social Life [43:10] Propo...
Apr 20, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Does our common understanding of mass shootings help us to prevent them? Blankschaen argues that our common beliefs and media narratives around gun ownership, mental illness, and school policies are unhelpful in preventing future mass shootings. Can we even provide an adequate definition of mass shootings? Should we give up the concept of mass shootings altogether, and focus instead on the particular shooters and victims in each circumstance? Read Kurt’s paper here: https://philpapers.org/rec/BL...
Apr 13, 2025•58 min
Through comparisons to consequentialism and deontological ethics, Travis dissects the core principles and critiques of virtue ethics. Along the way, we discuss moral dilemmas, the application of virtues, and the real-world implications of ethical theories. Whether you're a student of philosophy or just curious about moral reasoning, this discussion provides deep insights into the essence of virtuous behavior and its place in ethical discourse. [00:00] Introduction and Welcome [00:14] The Drownin...
Apr 06, 2025•58 min
What is the underlying logic of woke ideology? Is it consistent, and can it justify the pursuit of equality of outcome, such as redistributing wealth and land? Cofnas discusses the origins and evolution of wokeism, the moral and empirical premises underlying it, and the political dynamics between conservatives and liberals. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing debates around equity, discrimination, and social justice. You can also check out FeedSpot's list of 90 best philosophy ...
Mar 30, 2025•1 hr 11 min
How should we allocate our donations to address global issues effectively? Jacob discusses the principles guiding Effective Altruism, the importance of evidence-based charitable giving, the ethical implications of supporting local versus global causes, and the challenges of predicting long-term impacts. The episode also delves into the significant debate within the effective altruism community about how to prioritize immediate needs versus future generations, and the potential benefits and risks...
Mar 23, 2025•58 min
Is it possible for us to lead meaningful lives? Is there an ultimate point to our existence? Can we enrich our lives with the pursuit of love, knowledge and friendship? [00:00] Introduction to the Meaninglessness of Life [00:14] Tolstoy's Existential Crisis [01:39] The Appropriateness of Sadness [04:18] Everyday Meaning vs. Ultimate Meaning [06:13] The Metaphysical Argument [10:57] The Role of Accomplishments [17:42] Philosophical Temperaments and Existential Angst [23:14] The Value of Human Pot...
Mar 16, 2025•51 min
Join us for a provocative episode on Brain in a Vat as we rejoin the infamous Stephen Kershnar, whose prior discussions have made headlines. This episode delves into affirmative action, demographic considerations in education and employment, and the ethics of statistical predictions informed by race. The discussion debates the legitimacy and consequences of using race, gender, and other demographic factors in decision-making processes across various fields, from medicine and law to parole decisi...
Mar 09, 2025•51 min
Was Kit Conner obligated to reveal his queer sexual orientation to play his role as a queer character on ‘Heartstopper’? Timmerman and Blankschaen argue that straight actors can authentically portray queer characters, addressing issues of character versus performer authenticity, potential harm to marginalized actors, and the broader impact on the industry. They respond to various objections and explore the philosophical and ethical nuances surrounding representation in media. Link to Blankschaen...
Mar 03, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Who should be included in our 'moral circle' when we make our moral decisions? Jeff discusses the ethical responsibilities we might have towards non-human beings, such as Neanderthals, AIs, or even figments of our imagination. The conversation critically examines issues related to animal welfare, the complexities of population ethics, and the potential future implications of artificial intelligences with possible sentience. [00:00] Introduction and Guest Welcome [03:13] Neanderthal and Robot Roo...
Feb 23, 2025•1 hr 12 min
Chris Freiman argues that we’re justified in ignoring politics. Freiman, whose book 'Why It's Okay to Ignore Politics' delves into this controversial stance, presents thought experiments and addresses common objections. The conversation also explores effective altruism, the moral implications of individual actions, and the complexities surrounding charitable giving and political participation. Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on the ethics of civic duty and altruism. [00:...
Feb 17, 2025•58 min
In this special episode, Alix Spiegel, host and producer of ‘Invisibilia’ and journalist for ‘This American Life’, joins us to talk about storytelling. Alix discusses storytelling techniques, the philosophical and political dimensions of narrative choices, and the emotional journey of confronting climate change. [00:00] Introduction to the Guest: Elise Spiegel [00:23] The Story of Joy and Her Unique Ability [04:53] Exploring Dark Futures and Climate Change [08:23] The Art of Storytelling and Nar...
Feb 09, 2025•37 min
Dan Shahar defends the view that eating meat is permissible, even though meat farming is not. Is this a coherent position? [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [00:48] The Alien Analogy [02:20] Moral Implications and Human Relationships [03:33] Vegetarian Perspective and Ethical Dilemmas [08:01] Super Cow Hypothetical [12:11] Real-World Ethical Challenges [21:59] Voting and Social Activism [26:39] Moral Implications of Indirect Harm [32:58] The Role of Social Norms in Ethical Decisions [3...
Feb 02, 2025•53 min
Parfit altered the landscape of the philosophy of identity. We speak to David Edmonds about his recently released biography on this influential philosopher, and ask: what made Parfit the man he was? [00:00] Introduction to David Edmunds [00:25] David's Personal Connection to Derek Parfit [01:42] Derek Parfit's Early Life and Education [04:17] Derek Parfit's Philosophical Contributions [08:39] The Teletransporter Thought Experiment [12:20] Derek Parfit's Views on Death and Identity [24:45] The No...
Jan 27, 2025•55 min
Ben Stiller's superb series, Severance, raises fascinating questions about the nature of personal identity. Are we minds or brains? Is it possible for two persons to inhabit the same body? And can a person survive gaps in their existence? [00:00] Introduction to Severance [01:24] Philosophical Questions on Personal Identity [05:59] Real-Life Analogies and Thought Experiments [11:26] Ethical Implications and Moral Questions [22:20] Utilitarian Views and Moral Calculations [30:57] Navigating Hypot...
Jan 19, 2025•1 hr 1 min
What do anti-semites and ultra-orthodox Jews have in common? How did the ivy league discriminate against Jews? Is America still a safe haven for Jews? Follow Mark's work on https://markoppenheimer.substack.com/ [00:00] Introduction and Confession [00:17] The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting [03:59] Historical Context of Jewish Persecution [07:15] Understanding Antisemitism [13:38] Antisemitism and Bigotry [25:53] Jewish Identity and Group Affinity [35:04] Jewish Humor and Self-Deprecation [38:14]...
Jan 12, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Oxford University Press refused to publish Alex Byrne's book on gender. We discuss whether women are adult human females and whether sex is the same as gender. [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [02:38] Exploring Gender Identity [11:22] Historical Context and Gender Roles [19:00] Biological and Social Perspectives [27:51] Understanding Social Identity: 'One of the Boys' [28:17] Conrad Lorenz and the Ducklings: A Metaphor for Social Roles [33:58] The Debate on Context-Dependent Definitio...
Jan 05, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Is sex work actually work? Is prostitution always a form of exploitation? And show we legalize or decriminalize prostitution? [00:00] Introduction and Opening Remarks [00:14] The Moral and Legal Concerns of Prostitution [04:11] Debating Terminology: Prostitution vs. Sex Work [06:37] Legal Frameworks and Models of Prostitution [11:24] The Unique Harms of Prostitution [24:41] Sex Work as Labor: A Critical Examination [34:15] Civil Rights and Sexual Autonomy in Prostitution [35:33] Arguments Agains...
Dec 30, 2024•59 min
Is the restriction on having additional sexual or romantic partners similar to the restriction on having additional friends? Should you allow your partner to be free to pursue other partners? And are we able to overcome the jealousy associated with non-monogamy? [00:00] Introduction to the Debate on Monogamy [00:11] Thought Experiment: Friendship Restrictions [03:17] Defending Monogamy: Common Arguments [06:35] The Morality of Consensual Restrictions [13:53] Exploring the Concept of Exclusivity ...
Dec 22, 2024•57 min
Is observing people in a public space from the privacy of your home an infringement of their rights? Can the widespread use of CCTV cameras be justified, or does it violate their privacy? And how do technological developments affect the delicate balance between safety and privacy? [00:00] Introduction [00:18] The Case of Mrs. A [02:06] Privacy and Public Surveillance [08:28] The Networking Effect [11:18] Tracking and Rights Violations [13:48] Real-Life Implications [14:18] Challenging the First ...
Dec 15, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Are there different kinds of bullshit? Do bullshitters know they are full of it? What should we do to stem the tide? [00:00] Introduction [00:19] David Benatar's Joke [02:25] Defining Bullshit: Philosophical Perspectives [04:21] Academic Bullshit and Real-World Examples [09:34] The Ethics of Calling Out Bullshit [23:14] The Tragedy of the Bullshit Commons [36:06] Language, Slurs, and Bullshit [45:06] Navigating Misinformation and Critical Thinking [54:01 ] Conclusion and Final Thoughts...
Dec 08, 2024•55 min
