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Philip Goff is a philosopher who thinks consciousness pervades the universe. Keith Frankish is a philosopher who thinks consciousness* doesn't even exist. From their very different perspectives, Keith and Philip interview leading scientists and philosophers of consciousness, engaging and debating in a friendly way in pursuit of truth. Mind Chat aims to be highly accessible, allowing those with no background in science and/or philosophy to get a grip on the cutting edge of the field.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Philosophy • Consciousness • Panpsychism • Illusionism • Emergentism • Free Will • Materialism • Dualism • Science of Consciousness • Phenomenal Intentionality • Epistemology • Interview Format"Mind Chat" is a podcast featuring philosophers Philip Goff and Keith Frankish as they delve into the complexities surrounding consciousness. The show is designed to be accessible to listeners without a background in science or philosophy, aiming to address cutting-edge questions and theories about the nature of consciousness in an engaging manner. The podcast presents discussions and debates with leading thinkers, blending philosophical inquiry with insights from cognitive science.
Recurring themes include the exploration of panpsychism—the idea that consciousness pervades the universe—and illusionism, the view that our perception of consciousness might be deceptive. The podcast frequently interrogates whether consciousness can be considered a fundamental part of reality or an emergent property of physical processes. Topics such as free will, the extended mind thesis, and the intersection of consciousness with quantum mechanics and neuroscience are examined. The show also ventures into broader philosophical questions such as the implications of psychedelics, the possibility of living in a simulation, and the understanding of reality through interdisciplinary lenses.
Episodes highlight differing philosophical stances, such as materialism versus dualism, and address controversies like David Chalmers' "hard problem of consciousness." Renowned guests from various fields—ranging from cognitive scientists to philosophers of mind—add depth to these intellectual debates. Conversations are often sparked by recent scholarly works, allowing both the hosts and guests to explore current theories and findings. The podcast also touches upon less conventional ideas, such as whether entities not traditionally considered conscious, like countries or electrons, could indeed possess a form of consciousness. Overall, "Mind Chat" serves as a platform to question and redefine how consciousness is understood and its role within the broader tapestry of reality.