Description (podcaster-provided):
A Million Little Gods: A podcast on the consolation of uncertainty. It's about being of two—or more—minds about things and being okay with that. Hosted by Aaron Gowen of the Institute for English and American Studies at the University of Hamburg. amillionlittlegods.comThemes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Philosophy • Science and Race • Personal identity • Thanksgiving themes • Moral and ethical questioning • Social constructs • Interviews with scholars and expertsA Million Little Gods is a podcast that delves into the intricate and often paradoxical nature of human existence, embracing the uncertainty that accompanies the exploration of complex ideas. Hosted by Aaron Gowen from the Institute for English and American Studies at the University of Hamburg, the show encourages listeners to be comfortable with holding multiple, sometimes contradictory, perspectives.
The podcast covers a wide range of intellectual themes, often rooted in philosophical inquiry. It scrutinizes the nature of self, free will, and consciousness by engaging with philosophers like Galen Strawson and Susan Shell, and theologians such as Fr. James Martin. The show also navigates the intersection of science and society, questioning the role and scope of science through discussions with guests like John Dupré and Carl Zimmer.
Recurrent themes include the concept of race, treated as a topic open to rigorous examination. Various episodes probe into how statistical and philosophical models contribute to our understanding of race and its implications in both historical and contemporary contexts. The podcast frequently features conversations about how societal constructs, whether race or self, are formed and perceived.
This series also intersects with culture, exploring the impact of historical and moral considerations on our views on art and society, as evidenced by discussions around figures like Woody Allen. Additionally, episodes around Thanksgiving reflect on culture and personal memories, bringing a more introspective tone to the content.
Overall, A Million Little Gods offers a multifaceted examination of complex themes, encouraging listeners to embrace ambiguity and engage with challenging intellectual questions. The show is marked by in-depth interviews and incisive discussions, creating a rich tapestry of ideas that span philosophy, science, and culture.