TrueSciPhi

Podcast Profile: The Philosopher's Arms

Site • RSS • Apple Podcasts
23 episodes
2012 to 2017
Median: 27 minutes
Collection: Philosophy

Description (podcaster-provided):

Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):

This podcast, titled "The Philosopher's Arms," takes a unique approach to exploring philosophical problems by engaging a live audience in a pub setting. Hosted by Matthew Sweet, the show delves into a wide range of philosophical and ethical dilemmas, presenting them in a way that is accessible and relevant to everyday life. The themes span from abstract concepts to practical moral quandaries, inviting both scholarly guests and lay audience members to participate in the discussion.

The episodes cover an array of philosophical topics, each centered around a specific question or dilemma. These range from the nature of hypocrisy and the moral implications of hate speech to the perplexing problem of induction and the ethical considerations surrounding free will. The podcast examines these issues with the help of philosophers, scientists, legal experts, and even winners of baking competitions, demonstrating the diversity of thought and expertise brought to the table.

Common topics include moral and ethical issues, such as what constitutes a lie versus a misleading statement, the moral status of future generations, and the complexities of sex equality and exploitation. Other episodes tackle classic thought experiments, such as the Trolley Problem and Theseus' Ship, exploring their implications in modern contexts like military ethics and healthcare decision-making.

Listeners can expect the podcast to raise profound questions about the everyday application of philosophical theories. Whether considering the ramifications of treating a robot as human or the ethics of enhancing human capabilities with pills, the podcast consistently interweaves philosophical discourse with real-world scenarios, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and assumptions. The setting of a pub, along with the live audience's interaction, adds an engaging and somewhat informal backdrop to these serious philosophical inquiries.