Description (podcaster-provided):
Welcome to the Upon Reflection podcast with Nick Byrd, a podcast about what we think as well as how and why we think it. Nick studies the philosophy of cognitive science and the cognitive science of philosophy. This podcast will share Nick's and others' research. For instance, the podcast will discuss the differences between intuition and reflection as well as the ways in which intuitive reasoning predicts different philosophical, moral, and religious judgments than reflective reasoning. The podcast will also discuss topics like implicit bias—e.g., contrary to what you may have heard, implicit bias may not be entirely unconscious and involuntary. If you want to hear more about this research, you can subscribe wherever you find podcasts. And if you end up enjoying the Upon Reflection podcast, then feel free to tell people about it, online, in person, or in your review.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ cognitive science research • reflective vs. intuitive reasoning • implicit bias • philosophical beliefs • moral dilemmas • academic conferencing • well-being • free will • COVID-19 public health compliance"Upon Reflection" is a podcast that delves into the philosophy of cognitive science and the cognitive science of philosophy, hosted by Nick Byrd. This podcast explores the intricate ways in which we think, offering insights into both the mechanics of our cognitive processes and the content of our thoughts. The show spans a range of themes centered around the interplay between intuition and reflection, often investigating how these modes of reasoning influence philosophical, moral, and religious judgments.
One recurring topic is the distinction between intuitive and reflective reasoning. Episodes examine this differentiation and its consequences for various kinds of judgments, from philosophical to everyday decision-making. For instance, it discusses how different reasoning styles can impact responses to classic cognitive puzzles and moral dilemmas. The exploration includes whether reflective reasoning necessarily leads to better judgments or if it can sometimes reinforce personal biases tied to one's epistemic identity.
There is a significant focus on implicit bias, offering a nuanced view that challenges common perceptions about its unconscious and involuntary nature. The podcast also covers debates within cognitive science about the validity of measures used to test implicit bias, highlighting how value judgments and psychometric critiques shape these debates.
Interdisciplinary in nature, the show often contextualizes cognitive and philosophical theories through empirical research. It draws from studies in psychology, economics, neuroscience, and other fields to explain phenomena like well-being, depression, and decision-making. Additionally, episodes explore how demographic factors and psychological traits might predict philosophical beliefs, suggesting broader implications for understanding human thought processes.
The podcast also engages with practical academic topics, such as the benefits of online conferences and ways academics can improve their conferencing practices for greater sustainability and inclusivity. Throughout, Byrd presents findings from his research and collaborates with other scholars to provide a comprehensive view of current issues and advances in cognitive science and philosophy.