Site • RSS • Apple PodcastsDescription (podcaster-provided):
The mind-body problem, which Buddha, Socrates and many modern scientists have sought to solve, encompasses riddles such as consciousness, free will, morality and the meaning of life. In this podcast, science journalist John Horgan, talks to leading mind-body theorists about their views and often, about their personal lives. The show is an outgrowth of a book of the same title, available for free at mindbodyproblems.com.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Mind-body problem exploration • Consciousness and free will • Quantum mechanics discussions • Philosophy and science intersections • Morality and existence questions • Notable mind-body theorists interviewed • Books and personal stories sharedThis podcast, "MeaningofLife.tv: Mind-Body Problems," delves into philosophical and scientific exploration of the mind-body problem, an age-old mystery concerning the relationship between consciousness and physical reality. Host John Horgan engages with a variety of intellectuals to discuss diverse subjects that intersect with this central theme. Listeners will encounter conversations that span quantum mechanics, free will, consciousness, and the quest to understand existence itself. The episodes frequently juxtapose scientific theories with philosophical inquiries, examining whether disciplines like science and humanities can offer complementary insights or remain distinct.
Recurring topics include the deterministic versus non-deterministic nature of quantum mechanics, the conservation of consciousness, and the potential philosophical implications of scientific discoveries. Episodes often feature debates on theories such as panpsychism, which posits that consciousness is a fundamental aspect of the universe, challenging materialist and reductionist viewpoints.
The podcast also navigates through more speculative and unconventional ideas, exploring the connections between quantum phenomena and broader existential concepts. Discussions on the potential evolution of quantum theories, physics' poetic nature, and the boundary between philosophical and scientific inquiry are present.
Moreover, the dialogue extends into the personal lives and motivations of the guests, offering perspectives on how their experiences and backgrounds have shaped their views. Throughout, the podcast invites listeners to reflect on whether a single resolution to the mind-body problem is feasible and whether scientific rigor or philosophical speculation holds the key to deeper understanding.