Description (podcaster-provided):
Have you ever considered what being conscious actually means? By choosing to live in a particular state are you consenting to be subject to all its laws? For some there’s an assumption that philosophy might not be relevant to modern life but Dr. Nigel Warburton, senior lecturer in Philosophy at The Open University argues that many of us today are faced with philosophical questions such as these as we live our lives in the twenty first century. In this collection we ask academics to discuss these questions in addition to other important philosophical issues and concepts such as the morality of abortions and the reconciling a world with evil and a good God.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Consciousness • Political obligation • Moral philosophy • Theism and evil • Abortion ethics • Descartes and dualism • Personal identity • Thought experiments • Faith vs. reasonThis podcast, "Exploring Philosophy," delves into significant philosophical questions and dilemmas, many of which resonate with contemporary life. Through a collection of discussions led by Dr. Nigel Warburton and various academics, the podcast endeavors to make philosophy accessible and relevant to modern audiences. Listeners are invited to consider the application of philosophical inquiries to everyday issues such as consciousness, personal identity, and morality. There's an emphasis on understanding abstract concepts through practical lenses, as evidenced by topics like thought experiments and political obligation.
The show frequently addresses the tension between faith and reason, exploring whether religious belief is grounded in evidence or merely blind faith. The podcast also examines the issue of evil within the context of a world governed by an ostensibly benevolent deity, opening a conversation on reconciling faith with observable reality. Ethical dilemmas are prominent throughout the series, including nuanced debates over the morality of abortion and the rights of both the fetus and the mother.
Listeners are encouraged to ponder existential and metaphysical questions, such as those posed by Cartesian dualism, which posits the separation of mind and body, and the nature of consciousness itself. The show connects these philosophical concepts to real-world situations, inviting philosophical reflection on the laws that govern society and the extent to which citizens consent to such governance. Through this diverse array of topics, "Exploring Philosophy" offers a platform where listeners can engage with profound questions about human cognition, morals, and lived experience in the twenty-first century.