Dive into the complete episode list for Love & Philosophy. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
A discussion of network science, Curious Minds and Edge-working with Perry Zurn, a philosopher at American University. Perry is building the new field of Curiosity Studies. We discuss his newest book Curious Minds: The Power of Connection, written with his twin Dani Bassett, as well as Curiosity and Powerand themes from Curiosity Studies: A new Ecology of Knowledge."Maybe love and curiosity are not two different contexts."
A powerful conversation with facilitator Lisa Fitzhugh about the coherence between our internal and external worlds. Sometimes we focus so much on cultivating our external persona that we are blind to how such striving affects our private, inner world.
What does it take to look honestly at both, and to see their coherence?
Lisa works with top business and political leaders to build teams that thrive. She also founded one of the most nationally recognized and respected youth arts organizations in Seattle.
Read Manager Magazine's recent article about Lisa and another company she co-founded, Creative Ground.
Transcript preview: Andrea: [00:00:00] Hey everybody. So glad you're here. Today we're talking to. Professor Alex Mosley. He's a teacher. He's also a coach. He also wrote the encyclopedia entry for love and philosophy. So who better to talk to? We'll link to the internet encyclopedia entry on that in the show notes. So be sure to check it out and. Here we talk about love and we tried to go past traditional boundaries. Both of us were trained in philosophy, both analytic and continental, but both of us also have a--what shall I say--more explorative side as well, when it comes to trying to understand the world. So we just sorta let it all go where it would. We meander and go into all kinds of [00:01:00] different ideas, some of them, which analytic philosophers might not like, but, also some of them which make me uncomfortable, but you know, that's part of the show is just trying to see where we can go and how we can find new ways to look at these things that seem not to go together or seem to make us uncomfortable....
A conversation with philosopher and author C. Thi Nguyen about the power of focus, the precision of puzzles, the dangers and delights of games and play and the distinction between them.
Transcript: Hello, everyone. Welcome to Love and Philosophy Beyond Dichotomies. Today, we're 📍 talking to C. Thi Nguyen. Mostly about his book Games ,Agency as Art but also about many other things....about love, how is it related to games? Thi is a kind of philosopher's philosopher, so it's a little surprising to hear him say that philosophy was his backup career that he actually wanted to be a novelist. But when you hear how much pleasure he takes in Kant's formula of humanity, I think you'll also imagine he's always been a philosopher as well....we turn back and forth and shift around like a Rubik's cube. Art. Porn. Focus. Vulnerability. We talk a lot about trust...
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Scales and Science Fiction with Michael Levin. The first of a multi-part way-making research conversation with Tufts biologist Michael Levin. We discuss his own path and how science fiction helped him see beyond dichotomies. We also discuss the scales of cognition and what it might mean to reorient our understandings of life and mind.
Links to the papers mentioned: TAME and Light Cones: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02688/full Navigation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35741540/
Links to more of Michael Levin's work: Bluesky: @drmichaellevin Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmichaellevin Website: https://drmichaellevin.org
This is a way-making research conversation with Prof. Richard A. Watson of the University of Southhampton (Institute for Life Sciences/ Department of Computer Science, Agents, Interaction and Complexity group). You can watch the video here. We discuss the traditional ideas of adaptation and a Richard Dawkins style approach to Darwinism and then how this might be reimagined, as Richard Watson is doing in his work. We also discuss what it means to be an individual . Are love and logic opposites? How might we dance with a music that is both scientific and personal?
For Songs of Life: https://youtu.be/zdmY6q2ZWm8?feature=shared
Video of the Conversation, in case you want to see the moment at the end where he shows us love on the wall.
Biography of Richard Watson: "Dr Richard Watson studies evolution, learning, cognition and society and their unifying algorithmic principles. He studied Artificial Intelligence and Adaptive Systems at Sussex University, then PhD Computer Science at Brandeis in Boston. His current work deepens the unification of evolution and learning - specifically, with connectionist models of learning and cognition, familiar in neural network research – to address topics such as evolvability, ecological memory, evolutionary transitions in individuality (ETIs), phenotypic plasticity, the extended evolutionary synthesis, collective intelligence and 'design'. He has also developed new computational methods for combinatorial optimisation (deep optimisation), exploiting a unification of deep learning and ‘deep evolution’ (i.e. ETIs). He is author of "Compositional evolution" (MIT Press), was featured as "one to watch in AI” in Intelligent Systems magazine, and his paper “How Can Evolution Learn” in TREE, attracted the ISAL award 2016. He is now Associate Professor at the University of Southampton."
A discussion about computing with Flora Moon and Esteban Montero of Holon Labs. What is a computer and what do we want it to be? If a computer is made of living matter (something being explored now in various labs) how do we understand the traditional distinctions of technology and biology?
“The air itself is one vast library on whose pages are for ever written all that man has ever said or woman whispered.”__Charles Babbage (1837)
Andrea and Michael explore the complex relationships between dichotomies, the environment, robotics, and science. Their conversation delves into philosophical and scientific perspectives on how to understand and work with nature and technology harmoniously, aiming towards a nuanced understanding of ecological and technological terms and their impact on collective and individual well-being. The discussion also touches on personalized medicine, the implications of biological modeling, and the philosophical implications of competition and cooperation within systems. The overarching theme addresses the importance of nurturing ecological and technological relationships that promote clarity and understanding of our world and ourselves. Photo @tuftsu
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00:00 Introduction to the Conversation with Mike Levin 00:20 Exploring Dichotomies and Nature's Influence 02:02 The Significance of Art and Nature in Personal Life 04:04 Bridging Ecological and Technological Perspectives 05:40 Understanding Bioelectric Modulations and Natural Systems 07:06 Redefining the Natural vs. Technological Dichotomy 11:45 Envisioning a Healthier Relationship Between Ecology and Technology 16:02 Expanding Perspectives: From Anthrobots to Cognitive Landscapes 23:34 The Role of Language and Perspective in Understanding Biobots 27:52 Exploring the Multifaceted Nature of Biobots 28:02 The Diverse Perspectives on Biobots and Their Cognitive Properties 28:19 Biobots vs. Proto-Organisms: A Cognitive Science Perspective 28:25 Understanding Biobots: Goals, Preferences, and Experiments 28:37 The Machine Metaphor in Medicine and Its Implications 29:12 Perspectives and Empirical Frameworks in Understanding Complexity 29:22 The Role of Frames in Interpreting and Controlling Systems 38:08 Personalized Medicine and the Future of Biomedical Engineering 42:30 The Philosophical Underpinnings of Personalized Medicine 52:50 Concluding Thoughts on Suffering, Evolution, and Personalized Medicine
Mike Levin's Lab: https://drmichaellevin.org
Michael Levin's research channel: / @drmichaellevin
The papers discussed: https://www.nature.com/articles/s4146... https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/1...
Pattern, Meaning, & Integration with Jeremy Lent: Happy New Year !
A discussion with the author of The Patterning Instinct and Web of Meaning. Podcast posting soon on all platforms. This is a mostly uncut video without introduction. Wishing you all the very best of patterns, meanings, integrations and regenerations for 2024.
Towards way-making research in philosophy (as this is a research channel towards that philosophy), this conversation is especially helpful regarding the following:
The notion of polarity as not being dualistic. Jeremy's comments are very helpful here as a way to understand how the parts of a whole come to recognize one another, doing so as though they were not part of the same whole even while always being so.
“the patterns between things are often more important than the things themselves”
“the distinction we make between science and spirituality is a false distinction”
"I come up with a way of we can use language to define spirituality from the perspective of system science. And we can look at spirituality itself as really being like, an approach of seeking meaning in the connections between things rather than the things themselves."
Also especially helpful is the talk about dynamic patterns and strange attractors (what Jeremy calls natural attractors).
“Anytime we make sense of something, the best thing we can do is then having made sense of it to let that go and accept the next experience that might slightly shift the way of making sense of it.”
"It is not that the self is a delusion, it is that the fixed self is a delusion."
This is a conversation between Andrea Hiott and Daniel Ari Friedman discussing various themes related to cognition, perception, action, and the concept of Active Inference. The conversation starts with Daniel's time with Deborah Gordan studying ants. Then they delve into the understanding of different terminologies and concepts relative to complexity, the individual and collective behaviour. They dive deep into Karl Friston's active inference and into relative terms like predictive processing, predictive coding and the role and application of models and 'maps' in scientific research. Daniel explains the principles of active inference in relation to cognition and perception and how it can be viewed as a scale-free (or better scale-friendly) framework. They also discuss the importance of semantics in their fields and the role of the Active Inference Institute. The conversation is reflective and philosophical, touching on the intersection between cognitive science, neuroscience, and environmental interaction. They come to words like 'service' and 'love' before it ends.
Relative to way-making research: System 3 representations and a discussion of affordances (a fence post or a rock does not have them)
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Andrea & Daniel discuss:
scale-free and scale-friendly. Individual and Collective behaviour of ants. Complex systems. Bioinformatics. How we can find real boundaries, and how not-so-real boundaries can be modelled. Uncertainty. Language as a model. The difference between predictive processing, predictive coding, and active inference. Why a fence post does not have affordances. Affordance beyond Gibson. Perception as inbound regularities. Action as outbound regularities.
A biographical look into the lairs of modern neuroscience. Part 1 of a research conversation on the hippocampus. And notes for a tale of how McGill University, the invasion of Prague, and UCL pulled two expats together towards discoveries and writings that have changed a scientific framework.
Lynn Nadel has been doing influential research about memory and the hippocampus for decades. He is the co-author with Nobel Prize winner John O'Keefe of The Hippocampus As a Cognitive Map, one of the first books to open new fields of research relative to a part of the brain called the hippocampus, known for its role in both memory and navigation.
Nadel and O'Keefe met at McGill University at a time when the place was buzzing with the books, papers and people creating what we now study as neuroscience.
McGill University in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s can look a bit like the superhero headquarters of what would develop into modern neuroscience. Once you begin to list all the people who were working there at that time and all the threads that have since influenced the filed, from Wilder Penfield and Brenda Milner to Donald Hebb to John O'Keefe and Lynn Nadel, one begins to see how much of the work being done today was oriented from that starting point.
Paul Holdengraber, a renowned figure who has had conversations with some of the most influential figures of our times, discusses his unique approach and the pains and pleasures of life as a conversationalist. Andrea and Paul explore the profound impact of the art of conversation on forming deep connections. They also delve into Paul's background, influences, and the unpredictable paths life has taken him, from his parents' escape from the Nazis to his own philosophical and geographical journeys. Paul opens up about his recent jobless status, his reflections on care, conversation, and the power of listening, as well as contemplating the future in a rapidly changing world. Throughout, the discussion explores themes of transience, the creation of spaces for dialogue, and the importance of remaining open to the myriad possibilities life offers. The conversation weaves together topics such as the significance of digression, the therapeutic power of reminiscing on familial history, and the complexities of identity and human relationships. #artofconversation #holdengraber #andreahiott
00:00 Welcome to the Library: A Night of Conversation 00:29 Paul Holdengraber: A Man of Many Conversations 00:59 Exploring the New York Public Library with Paul 02:27 The Art and Power of Conversation 02:56 Paul's Unique Path: From Philosophy to Public Programming 05:12 Digression as a Form of Revelation 10:59 Returning to Roots: Conversations on Identity and Place 17:16 The Solitary Journey of a Conversationalist 22:16 Navigating Friendships and the Fear of Intimacy 26:42 Creating Landscapes of Conversation 32:03 From Hitchhiking to Hosting Influential Conversations 36:17 Unveiling the Art of Conversation and Personal Insights 37:40 Exploring Fame, Influence, and Personal Connections 38:56 The Craft of Creating Meaningful Conversations 40:26 Personal Reflections and Family Dynamics 52:09 The Power of Listening and the Art of Interviewing 59:26 Navigating Life's Transitions and Future Uncertainties 01:06:09 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Community Support 01:09:46 Contemplating New Beginnings and Creative Outlets
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Paddy LeFlufy discusses the new organizational technologies in economics that could help us build a better tomorrow.
His conversation with philosopher Andrea Hiott delves into reimagining economic systems that (as we hear by the end) can be understood as grounded in love and care for humanity and the planet. Central to the dialogue are innovative models like Doughnut Economics and the Future Guardian, aimed at remedying ecological issues and fostering a harmonious relationship between humanity and the environment. Through a blend of personal reflection, economic reform, and the pursuit of regenerative models, this narrative emphasizes the importance of valuing interconnectedness and practice in actionable frameworks for a balanced, inclusive future. #doughnut #futureguardians #paddyleflufy
Paddy's book is one of the Financial Times Best Books of 2023 It is called Building Tomorrow: https://paddyleflufy.com/building-tomorrow/
00:00 Clip Exploring the Essence of Love and Its Impact 00:50 Introduction to Paddy LeFlufy: A Journey into Love of Humanity 01:49 Diving into 'Building Tomorrow': A New Economic Vision 03:52 Paddy's Unique Path: From Mathematics to Global Adventures 06:11 Awakening to Ecological Realities and the Power of Change 26:36 The Circular Economy and Future Guardians: Pioneering Sustainable Business Models 37:50 Redefining Profit and Stakeholder Alignment 38:29 The Circular Economy and Sustainable Business Models 39:33 Challenges and Changes in Corporate Structures 40:24 The Future Guardian Model: A New Paradigm 41:00 Examples of Progressive Companies and Potential for Change 41:49 Spreading the Future Guardian Model and Social Pressure 42:48 Alternative Organizational Models and Regenerative Organizations 46:29 From Incremental Changes to a New Economic System 49:55 Understanding Money Creation and Its Impact 54:14 Practical Steps Towards Positive Change 01:00:28 Personal Journeys and the Power of Individual Action 01:06:29 The Role of Love and Care in Transformative Change
Timo is working on ways of applying artificial intelligence in corporate learning and development, focusing on scaling self-actualization in his Ipseity project. In this conversation, he shares his personal catalyst for change triggered by a rough patch in his life and how discovering Jordan Peterson's lectures on psychology opened new avenues of self-reflection and personal development for him. The conversation delves into Timo's philosophical and psychological insights, his project on developing a chatbot to aid in personal development and self-transformation, and the potential of using technology to navigate complex personal growth. The discussion also touches on contemporary issues in cognitive science, the challenges of interpreting Jordan Peterson within academic circles, and the broader implications of tech-assisted self-help methodologies.
00:00 Introduction to Love and Philosophy 00:26 Journey to a PhD: From Swiss Post to AI in Learning 01:41 Exploring Self-Actualization and Personal Development 03:33 The Impact of Jordan Peterson on Personal Growth 13:12 Navigating Corporate and Environmental Realities 23:26 Embracing Complexity: From Psychological Entropy to Ipseity 29:06 Exploring Personal Growth and Anxiety 29:29 The Role of Love and Consciousness in Personal Development 30:57 Navigating Life's Complexity with Maps of Meaning 35:01 The Ship of Theseus: Understanding Self Through Change 37:05 Developing the Grateful Chatbot: A Technological Companion for Growth 41:50 The Future of AI in Personal Development and Social Sense-Making 50:24 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Aspirations
Carlos is a founder of the Society for Multidisciplinary and Fundamental Research (SEMF), and a Postdoctoral Fellow and Head of Strategy at the Wolfram Institute, a recently established research institution dedicated to the investigation of the mathematical foundations of computation and the legacy of Stephen Wolfram's scientific ideas. This talk explores his childhood fascination with physics and mathematics towards a multifaceted academic and personal exploration of higher order maths and relations in a quest for a deeper understanding of the universe's complexities. Carlos eloquently discusses the challenges of aligning personal passions with academic pursuits, his evolving interests leading to groundbreaking reflections on higher order mathematics, complexity theory, and their applications to understanding not just the cosmos but the complexities of human relationships, especially within the context of polyamorous dynamics. The narrative weaves together the beauty of scientific inquiry, mathematical honesty, and the deep, introspective examination of human connections, advocating for a boundary-defying approach to knowledge and love. #semf#Carloszapatacarratalá#higherorderthinkingskills#hiott#love#philosophy#wolfram
00:00 Exploring New Languages to Understand Nature 00:25 Theoretical Foundations and Practical Impacts 01:17 Navigating Romantic and Social Connections 02:30 A Deep Dive into Love, Philosophy, and Mathematics 03:01 The Journey from Philosophy to Mathematics 03:51 Challenging Traditional Academic Paths 07:39 Embracing Multidisciplinary Approaches 08:55 Personal Growth Through Unconventional Learning 10:21 Redefining Success in Academia and Beyond 14:28 The Role of Teaching and the Quest for Knowledge 28:07 Navigating Life's Complexities with a Love for Wisdom 35:47 Reflecting on Personal and Societal Growth 41:21 The Influence of a Father's Perspective 41:35 A Unique Approach t
Intentions and Agency: A Deep Dive into Ecological Psychology
Join Mirko Prokop and Andrea Hiott as they examine 'Intentions in Ecological Psychology, an Anscombian Perspective' by Miguel Segundo-Ortin and Annemarie Kalis. This engaging discussion explores the concept of intention from a naturalistic standpoint, intersecting with ecological psychology. Topics include the role of intention in agency, the influence of Elizabeth Anscombe, teleology, goal-directed behavior, and non-representational nature of intentions. Delving into the idea of affordances, they shed light on how intentions shape perception and behavior across species, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human and animal cognition.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:08 Discussing the Paper: Intentions in Ecological Psychology 02:10 Exploring Key Concepts: Philosophy of Action and Enactivism 04:27 Understanding Ecological Psychology and Affordances 12:38 Agency and Perception-Action Loops 20:38 Intentional Action and Human Agency 31:58 Philosophical Perspectives on Intention 48:07 Exploring Human and Animal Agency 49:15 Intention as Organization of Patterns 50:33 Anscombe's Practical Knowledge 54:23 Naturalistic Notion of Intention 56:23 Embodied Cognition and Practical Knowledge 01:02:10 Social Context and Practical Knowledge 01:17:01 Teleology and Goal-Oriented Behavior 01:30:39 Affordances and Intentional Action 01:34:23 Interdisciplinary Approach to Cognition
The paper discussed here, by Miguel Segundo-Ortin and Annemarie Kalis, is called Intentions in Ecological Psychology: An Anscombean Proposal and is available to read here: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/365264374_Intentions_in_Ecological_Psychology_An_Anscombean_Proposal
Thoreau quote discussed: "In our most trivial walks, we are constantly, though unconsciously, steering like pilots by certain well–known beacons and headlands, and if we go beyond our usual course we still carry in our minds the bearing of some neighboring cape; and not till we are completely lost, or turned round—for a man needs only to be turned round once with his eyes shut in this world to be lost—do we appreciate the vastness and strangeness of nature. Every man has to learn the points of compass again as often as he awakes, whether from sleep or any abstraction. Not till we are lost, in other words not till we have lost the world, do we begin to find ourselves, and realize where we are and the infinite extent of our relations."
Love, Mind & the Poetry of Existence with Iain McGilchrist
"Delve into the intricate relationship between flow and resistance in the universe, and the essential human engagement with beauty, goodness, and truth. Iain McGilchrist discusses the significance of asymmetry with Andrea, as well as the limitations of dichotomous thinking, and the richness found in embracing the complexity of life. The dialogue covers themes from Dr. McGilchrist's research and books, focusing on the importance of intuition, imagination, and our interconnectedness with nature and each other. The discussion also touches on the transformative power of poetry and art, the impact of modern digital distractions on our ability to connect deeply with the world, and the philosophical reflections on life, death, and the constant state of becoming that defines our existence. A truly moving conversation."
Brad Love is Professor of Cognitive and Decision Sciences in Experimental Psychology at University College London (UCL) and a fellow at The Alan Turing Institute for data science. Brad and Andrea discuss the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and neuroscience, focusing on Brad's groundbreaking project BrainGPT, a Large Language Model tool to assist neuroscientific research. In getting there, they look back at early experiences and connect the dots of memory and what still resonates in his current work and in memory research in general. They discuss the role of AI and how we might reimagine the labels of neuroscience. They also discuss BrainGPT and the role of LLMs in predicting scientific research outcomes and addressing the challenges posed by the vast volume of academic papers. Concluding with personal insights into the adventures of navigating careers in science and AI research, the conversation navigates the complexities of creativity, scientific discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge in an era marked by rapid technological progress. #braingpt#neuroscience#models#hippocampus#artificialintelligence#bradlove#llms Watch video at: Love & Philosophy Beyond Dichotomy Channel BrainGPT: https://braingpt.org/ Team at BrainGPT: https://braingpt.org/team.html BrainGPT paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2403.03230 SUSTAIN: https://bradlove.org/papers/love_medi...
Is anything objective? Philosophers Inês Hipólito and Andrea discuss how Inês became a philosopher and in so doing, discuss the computational theory of mind, critical thinking in the digital age, Wittgenstein, enaction, and how AI might contribute to our understanding of our environment. They move into a holistic perspective on technology, humanity, and nature, emphasizing the need for a philosophy and a technology that rekindles our ecological roots and fosters sustainable, interconnected living. Beginning with the impact of viewing the mind as a Turing machine, it emphasizes how this perspective has shaped the development and perception of AI and LLMs as entities with human-like consciousness and autonomy and calls for culturally sensitive, transparent, inclusive AI technologies that can foster a sustainable, interconnected future.
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00:00 Exploring the Dangers of Computational Theory of Mind 02:16 A Warm Welcome and the Power of Philosophy 02:40 The Philosophical Journey Begins: From Portugal to Neuroscience 04:56 Diving Deep into Philosophy: Questions That Shape a Career 07:10 The Intersection of Eastern Philosophy and Cognitive Science 09:20 Enaction and Its Philosophical Roots 21:51 The Role of Philosophy in Science and the Importance of Critical Thinking 38:33 Embracing Change: The Dynamical Systems Approach 42:38 Exploring the Philosophical Foundations of Experience 43:40 Bridging Phenomenology, Ecological Psychology, and Wittgenstein 45:16 The Intersection of Technology, AI, and Cognitive Science 46:42 AI's Societal Impact and the Importance of a Philosophical Approach 49:30 Challenging the Computational Theory of Mind 53:42 The Role of Philosophy in Unraveling AI's Complexities 01:03:29 Reimagining AI Through Active Inference and Environmental Sensitivity 01:21:22 Concluding Thoughts on Objectivity, Diversity, and the Future of AI …the dangers of A.I. are not what you think
Max Bennett is the author of 'A Brief History of Intelligence: Evolution, AI, and Five Breakthroughs That Made Our Brains.' In this episode Andrea Hiott and Max discuss his journey from working in AI technology commercialization to embarking on a five-year passion project that led to writing the book. He explains the motivation behind studying the discrepancies between human brain functionality and AI systems, resulting in several published papers and collaborations with neuroscientists. The discussion delves into intelligence before brains, as Max argues against the notion that intelligence is exclusive to brains, highlighting the evolutionary history and complexity of intelligence across different life forms. They cover various breakthroughs in understanding intelligence, including steering, reinforcement learning, and the emergence of language as a tool for sharing mental simulations. Their conversation touches upon the implications of language for human intelligence, its role in facilitating complex planning and cooperation, and the feedback loop it creates for refining thought processes. It also gets into the potential of AI in continuous learning and the challenges in achieving a system that learns in real time (like the human brain!)
00:00 Welcome and Introduction to A Brief History of Intelligence 00:14 The Genesis of a Passion Project: AI, Neuroscience, and a Side Project Turned Book 02:05 Exploring Intelligence Beyond the Brain: From Single Cells to AI 05:48 The Evolutionary Journey: Steering, Movement, and the Dawn of Intelligence 13:24 From Simple Beginnings to Complex Systems: The Roomba's Evolutionary Echo 15:40 Envisioning AI's Potential: Education, Healthcare, and Home Assistance 20:10 The Evolution of Intelligence: From Steering to Reinforcement Learning 28:24 Decoding Brain Algorithms: A New Approach to Understanding Intelligence 28:36 The Complexity of Brain Functions and the Power of Algorithmic Thinking 30:53 Exploring the Neocortex: Unveiling the Mysteries of Brain Structure 33:20 Simulation and Mentalization: The Breakthroughs in Cognitive Mapping 33:59 The Evolution of the Neocortex and Its Impact on Mammalian Inte
Mechanistic and Dynamical Approaches with Paul Kelly and Andrea Hiott. This episode delves into the philosophical and practical distinctions between mechanistic and dynamical models, highlighting their significance in cognitive science and climate science. Paul and Andrea also unpack the 3M principle, surrogative reasoning, and equilibrium models, emphasizing the role of models in scientific inquiry and their broader implications for understanding complex systems. Perfect for enthusiasts of cognitive science, philosophy, and anyone fascinated by the dynamic intersection of these fields.
Thrutopia "is the art of writing engaging route-maps through to a world we'd all be proud to leave to future generations." Manda Scott's new book Any Human Power is an amazing exercise in Thrutopia. Manda and Andrea meet here for the first time to explore transformative ideas beyond traditional dichotomies. This episode delves into shamanic practices, the concept of Thrutopia, and systemic evolution as expressed in Manda's podcast 'Accidental Gods' and her transformative new book 'Any Human Power' which introduces new paths forward, some inspired by frameworks that already exist, like Joanna Macy's Three Pillars of the Great Turning and Riversimple's innovative governance models. The two explore the crucial role of storytelling and community in fostering sustainable change and finding new pathways for leveraging technology thoughtfully and promoting a deeper sense of connectedness for a more inclusive and supportive society.
Rather than dystopia or utopia, thrutopia "is the art of writing engaging route-maps through to a world we'd all be proud to leave to future generations." Thrutopia article: https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/rupe...
Starting with Fred's unique scholarship and teaching, his nursing background, and his early studies with Douglas Hofstadter, Andrea & Fred lay the groundwork for an in-depth discussion on the history and interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science. Uncovering the philosophical and contemporary science behind defining cognitive science, the mind-body relationship, and distinctions between consciousness and cognition. They also discuss the phenomena of joint speech (a term coined by Cummins), its presence in rituals, protests, and sports, its biological and sociocultural facets, and the tech limitations in replicating such collective human activities. This engaging conversation bridges ancient wisdom with modern methodologies, focusing on questioning as much as on finding answers.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:23 Fred's Academic Journey 01:27 The Cognitive Science Revolution 04:44 Defining Cognitive Science 07:07 Philosophical Underpinnings 14:06 Teaching Cognitive Science 17:41 The Evolution of Scientific Thought 19:46 The Complexity of Cognition and Consciousness 30:55 The Role of Neuroscience 32:40 The Intersection of Law, Medicine, and Cognitive Science 46:42 The Importance of Dialogue in Science 50:28 Exploring Neoplatonism and Theurgy 51:08 Hellenic Tantra: A Controversial Concept 51:43 Consciousness and Historical Purity 52:33 The Role of Scholarship in Understanding Traditions 54:16 Dialectics and Epistemological Perspectives 55:05 The Nature of Buddhism and Dialectics 01:01:14 The Importance of Writing and Creating 01:05:24 Cognitive Science and Its Broader Implications
Unpacking Complexities with Mahault Albarracin: on Cognitive Computing, Sexology, and the Patterns that make a difference.
Join us as we try and discuss what cannot be discussed, touching on sexology, cognitive computing, and technology's role in societal change. Albarracin , currently pursuing a PhD in cognitive computing, delves into the definitions and interrelations between disciplines, the patterns that shape cognition and awareness, and the potential of technology to influence social dynamics. We touch on topics from the integration of diverse perspectives in understanding complex phenomena to the role of AI and its ethical implications. This journey is also an exercise in complexity, challenging traditional viewpoints and offering fresh insights into contemporary academic discussions.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:41 Defining Sexology and Its Challenges 04:16 From Sexology to Cognitive Computing 10:30 Exploring Constructivism and Predictive Processing 13:22 Phenomenology and Shared Constructs 15:58 The Complexity of Modeling Cognition 22:20 Beyond Dichotomies: Self, Other, and Community 29:12 Exploring the Concept of Representation 29:50 The Self as a Process 30:32 Clarifying the Question 31:14 Neomaterialism and Interaction
Brandon Baylor, one of the founders of Holon Labs, takes a personal approach here to uncovering the transformative power of category theory. Through bold anecdotes and professional insights, we see how this abstract branch of mathematics that focuses on relationships and roles might redefine our understanding of the world. This conversation highlights the importance of systemic integration, meditation, and creating communities that bridge research and business. Additionally, the role of fatherhood in shaping their perspectives is discussed, emphasizing a commitment to fostering healthier systems and a sense of belonging. Tune in to explore how these concepts can navigate the complexities and interconnectedness of modern life.
00:00 Labels and Personal Struggles 01:34 Love and Philosophy Beyond Dichotomies 04:23 Introducing Brandon Baylor and Category Theory 05:21 Brandon's Journey into Engineering and Category Theory 08:58 Personal Reflections and Early Influences 13:47 The Shift to Category Theory 18:14 Understanding Category Theory's Practical Applications 41:47 Understanding Context in Category Theory 42:28 Category Theory in Business and Engineering 44:10 Complexity and the Digital Revolution 45:22 Social Media and Isolation 48:25 Case Studies and Practical Applications 50:32 The Philosophy of Composition 54:45 Digital Twins & System Models 01:10:05 Personal Reflections and Meditation 01:16:49 Challenges & Future of Category Theory 01:23:47 Parenting and Life Integration
Philosophy and Identity with Julian Baggini Join host Andrea for an enlightening conversation with renowned philosopher and best-selling author Julian Baggini, as they explore the intersections of global philosophical traditions and personal identity. Discover how Baggini’s book 'How the World Thinks' delves into the balance between individualism and community, cultural context, and the integration of diverse ways of thinking. This episode unpacks critical thinking, its ethical dimensions, and the psychological and embodied aspects of personal experiences. Julian reflects on memory, trauma, dementia, and the importance of continuous learning while discussing the foundations of our thoughts and identities. Whether you are new to philosophy or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers enriching perspectives on how philosophy shapes our worldviews and daily lives.
Check out Julian's website: https://www.julianbaggini.com
How the World Thinks: https://www.amazon.com/How-World-Thin...
How to Think Like a Philosopher, the book: https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/...
How to think like a philosopher, the podcast: https://www.julianbaggini.com/categor...
In Our Time: https://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/history/...
00:00 Introduction to Julian Baginni 01:10 Julian's Philosophical Journey 01:42 Exploring Relational and Atomistic Views 02:30 The Role of Truth and Respect in Philosophy 05:12 Julian's Scholarship and The Philosophers Mag 06:57 Global Philosophy and Its Challenges 11:17 Defining Philosophy Across Cultures 30:16 The Importance of Place in Philosophy 37:35 Balancing Individualism and Belonging 42:12 Integrating Eastern and Western Philosophies 43:01 The Concept of a Global Philosophy 44:21 The Mixing Desk Analogy for Moral Values 46:58 Dynamic Systems and Knowledge 48:24 The Process of Understanding Reality 58:45 The Ethical Practice of Philosophy 01:11:09 Personal Identity and the Self 01:21:29 The Role of Philosophy in Critical Thinking 01:24:20 Julian's Journey as a Philosopher
Join the Substack: https://lovephilosophy.substack.com/ Go deeper with Community Philosophy: https://communityphilosophy.substack.com/
NYC in the 1970s and the spatiotemporal transmissions of writing with Darryl Pinckney: Why do books and poetry matter so much and what is the real avant garde? Does anyone else feel nostalgic for literary movements? An enriching conversation with acclaimed writer Darryl Pinckney exploring the evolution of literature, poetry, and the arts in New York from the 1970s to the present day. Discover personal anecdotes and reflections on the legacies of influential figures like Elizabeth Hardwick and Robert Lowell, delve into the impact of historical and political events on the literary scene, and celebrate the roles of diverse cultural backgrounds and influential women in shaping literary traditions. This episode offers profound insights into authenticity, artistic success, and the power of documenting and transmitting unique experiences through writing. #nyc#literaryinsights#poetry#70slit#literarylineage#pinckney#hiott 00:51 Nostalgia for New York's Literary Scene 01:43 Influential Figures and Inspirations 02:39 The Impact of Literature on Personal Growth 03:43 Darryl Pinckney's New York Experience 05:02 The Paradox of Literary Success 05:25 Changes in New York and Literary Culture 07:03 The Evolution of Literary Aspirations 08:45 The Role of Mentorship and Friendship 10:52 The Changing Landscape of New York 15:39 Reflections on Literary Success and Authenticity 44:07 Reflecting on the 1980s: Fear and Loneliness 45:09 The Impact of AIDS on Social Life 47:15 Moving to Berlin and Meeting James Fenton 50:06 A Love for Poets and Poetry 59:06 The Importance of Reading and Connection 01:02:36 Identity Politics and Victimhood 01:11:32 Family History and Education 01:13:03 Concluding Thoughts on Life and Relationships Shownotes: loveandphilosophy.co
Simone de Beauvoir and Authentic Love: Andrea Hiott speaks with Skye Cleary, a philosopher at Columbia University, about existentialism, love, and authenticity. They delve into Simone de Beauvoir's influential ideas, questioning societal expectations, and the concept of authentic love as mutual recognition of two freedoms. Skye shares her personal journey, from challenging traditional roles to embracing unique paths, including her experiences in the army, management consulting, and academia. This episode provides insights into living a reflective life, pushing beyond societal norms, and finding genuine connection in relationships. #existentialism#loveandphilosophy#expectations#philosophy
00:00 Introduction to Bouvoir and Sartre's Influence 00:13 Exploring Authentic Love and Personal Choices 01:05 Welcome and Guest Introduction 01:28 Skye Cleary's Background and Works 03:23 Discussion on Expectations and Personal Story 05:17 Questioning Life's Expectations 09:33 Discovering Existential Philosophy 18:04 Challenging Relationship Norms 28:27 Exploring the Concept of Choice and Freedom 29:49 The Role of Agency in Shaping Our Lives 31:02 Reflecting on Life's Path and Societal Expectations 33:37 The Importance of Reflection and Philosophical Inquiry 35:02 Beauvoir's Optimistic Existentialism 37:55 Balancing Individual and Societal Expectations 44:44 The Dynamics of Romantic and Authentic Love 48:56 Challenges and Realities of Parenthood 52:32 Mutual Recognition and Expanding Perspectives 01:00:16 Concluding Thoughts on Love and Freedom
Navigating the Human-AI Relationship: Trust, Values, and Adaptive Resilience. In this episode, Andrea has a riveting conversation with Maria Sentacatarina, CEO advisor and Board Director, about her book 'Adaptive Resilience.' The discussion explores the evolving dynamics between human intelligence and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the necessity for technology to complement and not replace human capabilities. Topics include the critical role of ethics, the expansive potential of the human mind, and the journey of earning trust amid complex transformations. The conversation underscores the need to align technology with human values and environmental sustainability, while fostering communication and multidisciplinary approaches for leadership in various sectors. Tune in to rethink the human-AI relationship and envision a resilient, equitable future. #resilience #artificialintelligence #mind #intelligence #potential
00:00 Introduction: The Limits of Computing Human Emotions 00:24 Reconceptualizing the Human-AI Relationship 01:12 Exploring Adaptive Resilience with Maria Sentacatarina 02:55 The Intersection of Humanities and AI 05:46 The Distinction Between Human and Artificial Intelligence 06:47 The Role of Knowledge and Consciousness 10:20 The Complexity of Modeling Human Experience 14:01 The Evolution of Human Intelligence and Technology 14:58 Ethical Implications of AI in Society 26:15 The Importance of Human Values in Technology 45:08 Irreplaceable Value of Human Experience 46:42 The Constraints of Technology on Human Potential 48:50 The Dangers of Oversimplification and Surveillance 49:57 Global Implications of AI and the Need for Human Agency 53:53 The Importance of Nuance in Data and Decision Making 56:30 The Role of Communication in Technology and Society 01:08:32 Ethics, Governance, and the Future of AI 01:18:30 Hope and Vision for a Human-Centric Future
Book link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1119898188
LinkedIn post mentioned: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marias...
Maria Santacaterina is a sought after Global Strategic Leader & Board Executive Advisor. She is a renowned author and speaker who re-frames the Human-AI relationship. “Adaptive Resilience - how to thrive in a digital era” (Wiley) offers a comprehensive strategy for business leaders seeking to re-invent the Enterprise and build a sustainable digital future; while responding and adapting to an accelerating rate of change, increasing complexity and rapid technological disruptions.
Join the Substack: https://lovephilosophy.substack.com/ Go deeper with Community Philosophy: https://communityphilosophy.substack.com/
About this podcast: Beyond Dichotomy started as research conversations & has expanded beyond my own academic pursuits towards noticing the patterns that connect across traditional divides.
When I started my studies, there was so much I wanted to explore that I was told I shouldn't explore because it didn't fit into this or that discipline, but having studied and worked in so many fields, those barriers no longer made sense. The same felt true relative to passions and love.
So I decided to open myself to all of it beyond traditional distinctions, towards learning and development. This podcast is where those voices gather together in one space as I try and notice the patterns that connect.
In this episode, Andrea and Jonathan Bill Doe, a PhD candidate from the Brandenburgische Technische Universität, as they explore Jonathan's research on the Keta Lagoon and urban gardening in Ghana. Initially focusing on Jonathan's intriguing master's project, 'Keta Lagoon: Uncovering Suppressed Heritage Practices for Sustainable Wetland Management,' they delve into the complexities of heritage, sustainability, and cultural practices. Jonathan shares insights from his extensive academic journey, his practical experiences as a tour guide, and his observations on Ghana's urban and heritage landscapes. They discuss the nuances of colonial history, local knowledge holders, and sustainable practices like the 'Atsidza' fishing method. Moving forward, Jonathan talks about his PhD project involving urban gardening and sociotechnical imaginaries in postcolonial Ghana, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional practices into modern sustainability efforts. This enlightening conversation reveals how historical, cultural, and environmental factors intertwine, emphasizing the necessity of inclusive and thoughtful heritage management. #sustainable#heritage#unesco
Best quality video at: https://youtu.be/T9ijth48w54?si=vOu9Y7klwZ9C6Fw6
00:54 Jonathan's Academic Journey 02:20 Tour Guiding and Heritage Interest 05:18 Philosophical and Historical Insights 06:27 Keta Lagoon and Suppressed Heritage 21:47 Colonial Impact and Local Knowledge 38:55 Decolonial Philosophy and Lagoon Management 39:42 Beyond Dichotomies: Historical and Modern Practices 41:34 Relationality in African Philosophy 43:05 Sustainability and Economic Assumptions 47:11 Fishing Practices in the Lagoon 58:42 Ownership and Commons in Lagoon Fishing 01:01:49 Urban Gardening and Post-Colonial Ghana
Understanding Wholeness and the Patterns of Place with David Seamon A deep discussion surrounding the concept of 'wholeness' and 'place' with David Seamon, a geographer and phenomenologist, and philosoher Andrea Hiott. The conversation traverses the work of Christopher Alexander, particularly his book 'A Pattern Language,' and how his architectural theories interconnect with environmental serendipity, phenomenology, and the deeper human experience of being in the world. The dialogue encompasses the importance of understanding place as a dynamic, evolving entity intertwined with human existence, emphasizing the significance of phenomenology, holistic approaches, and the work of scholars like Henri Bortoft and Edward Relph. David Seamon reflects on his lifelong pursuit to understand the integrated phenomenon of place and its impact on human life, advocating for a broader acknowledgment of these ideas in academic and practical realms. Full video on Love and Philosophy You Tube Channel. #christopheralexander #patternlanguage
00:00 Introduction to Pattern Language 00:58 The Significance of Place in Human Life 01:21 Exploring Human Connection to Place 02:36 Philosophical Insights on Space and Place 03:26 Christopher Alexander's Influence 05:41 Understanding Wholeness and Relationality 09:40 David Seamon's Journey and Contributions 12:54 The Role of Phenomenology in Geography 25:56 The Concept of Wholeness in Phenomenology 30:14 Practical Applications of Wholeness 41:24 Introduction to David Bohm's World Tubes 41:48 Exploring Place Processes 43:53 Understanding Place Release 49:02 The Concept of Synergistic Relationality 50:15 Goethe's Influence on Phenomenology 57:07 The Importance of Place in Human Life 01:09:05 Challenges in Academia and Personal Reflections 01:17:20 Recommended Readings and Conclusion
Lucas shares his journey from being driven by societal pressures and material success to finding deeper meaning and purpose through conversations, psychedelics, and a profound connection with nature. We discuss his recent studies in Egyptology, his thoughts on thinkers like René Girard, and his shift from superficial goals to becoming a school teacher. Lucas also opens up about his transformative relationship with his wife and how it has grounded him, embodying the harmonious balance of opposites. Tune in to explore how Lucas navigates the challenges of modern life while holding space for deeper truths and meaningful relationships. #RenéGirard#loveandphilosophy#fame
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:35 Meet Lucas Voss 01:45 Exploring Egyptology and Rene Girard 03:06 Marriage and Personal Growth 06:23 The Concept of Hematheism 09:18 Unity, Multiplicity, and Reality 10:36 The Paradox of Reality 21:49 The Influence of Media and Pop Culture 32:07 Personal Transformation and Self-Help 37:20 Exploring the Connection Between Body and Mind 37:59 The Impact of Nature on Thought Patterns 40:40 Transformative Power of Psychedelics 41:57 The Journey of Self-Optimization 45:25 Embracing Spirituality and Family Support 53:57 The Role of Love and Relationships 58:31 Choosing a Path of Teaching and Connection 01:03:57 The Influence of a Supportive Partner 01:07:48 Concluding Thoughts on Life and Relationships
The conversation about Andrea's life story: https://youtu.be/RR6QNYbBKM4?si=hJdo7CkDdKUBT_KZ
Andrea Hiott chats with award-winning designer Alastair Duckworth to investigate the influential role of polarity and paradox in our lives and creations. They discuss how engaging with seemingly contradictory elements—from religious texts to marketing campaigns like Michael Jordan's Nike ad and VW Beetle—can enhance our understanding and spark creativity. The dialogue covers a spectrum of topics, including design strategies of companies like Airbnb, the impact of extreme sports, and the importance of provocative methods to inspire deep thought and meaningful change. Discover how embracing the tension of opposites can lead to a richer human experience and innovative design solutions. #paradox#power#polarity
00:00 Introduction to Paradox and Design 01:05 Exploring Polarities in Life and Design 01:57 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 02:44 Introducing Alastair and the Topic of Polarity 03:53 Understanding Polarity in Emotional and Mental Landscapes 07:02 The Concept of Dichotomy and Paradox 10:30 Alastair's Journey into Polarity and Design 15:56 The Role of Paradox in Advertising and Design 25:13 Defining Polarity and Its Importance 33:42 The Creative Process and the Golden Mean 36:15 Balancing Extremes: Transforming Virtues 37:31 Philosophical Reflections: Stoicism and Buddhism 39:47 Freedom and Constraint: A Dynamic Process 44:47 Belonging Anywhere: The Airbnb Example 54:39 Designing with Polarities: Practical Applications 59:16 The Role of Authenticity and Intention in Branding 01:00:17 Embracing Extremes: Positive Polarization 01:09:05 The Practice of Holding Opposites 01:15:10 Meaning First: A New Approach to Design
Alastair Duckworth is an award-winning designer based in London, UK. He has spent the last two decades exploring the ancient idea of the coincidence of opposites, finding practical ways for people to apply it to their life and work.
Paco Calvo leads the MINT Lab and is the renowned author of 'Planta Sapiens,' as we explore the revolutionary concepts of plant intelligence and co-evolution. In today’s rapidly advancing scientific world, the idea of plant intelligence often sparks a heated debate. Can plants think? Do they possess some form of intelligence or cognition? Paco Calvo, the renowned cognitive scientist and philosopher, presents compelling evidence suggesting that plants do indeed have a unique form of intelligence. Calvo elaborates on the critical role of ways plants make their way in the world, promoting a paradigm shift towards ecological humility and interconnectedness. This conversation underscores the importance of redefining scientific practices and education to better understand the vital yet often overlooked relationships between humans and plants. Embrace a new perspective on our ecological allies and their intrinsic value as we advocate for a more integrated and respectful approach to nature.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:35 Exploring Plant Intelligence 01:40 Rethinking Robotics with Plant Inspiration 07:32 Darwin's Observations and Plant Behavior 13:05 Challenges in Recognizing Plant Intelligence 37:00 Educational Perspectives on Intelligence 46:11 Embracing the Intrinsic Value of Nature 47:55 Rethinking Intelligence and Co-Evolution 50:08 The Interconnectedness of Life 51:41 Understanding Plant Cognition and Sentience 53:55 The Role of Science and Subjective Biases 56:28 Exploring Plant Sensory Capabilities 01:05:02 The Concept of Love in Plant Life 01:24:05 Personal Reflections and the Joy of Observing Plants
Join us in an intriguing exploration of the connections between the brain, body, and environment with esteemed neuroscientist and philosopher, Dr. Georg Northoff. Discover Dr. Northoff's ground-breaking research on spatiotemporal patterns in brain activity, which illuminates our understanding of consciousness and mental states such as depression and mania. Learn about the dynamic brain processes crucial for psychological well-being and the significance of personalized spatiotemporal patterns in mental health therapy. This episode weaves through Dr. Northoff's philosophical journey, influenced by nature, and thinkers like Kant and Whitehead, advocating a non-reductive neurophilosophy of human interconnectedness, inspired by Chinese philosophy. Expect a thought-provoking discussion that redefines traditional views on the mind and offers a fresh perspective on mental health and ecological ontology.
00:00 Introduction to the Brain-Environment Connection 00:42 Welcome to the Research Podcast 01:38 Introducing Dr. Georg Northoff 02:36 Exploring Spatiotemporal Patterns 14:43 The Brain's Dynamic Principles 19:17 Understanding Spatiotemporal Neuroscience 25:16 The Impact of Environmental Context 42:37 Personalized Therapy and Mental Disorders 46:36 Understanding Breathing Rates and Mental Health 47:22 Personalized Breathing Interventions 48:35 Synchrony and Psychological Well-being 51:23 Schizophrenia and Temporal Fragmentation 53:28 The River Metaphor for Schizophrenia 56:41 The Role of Spatiotemporal Patterns in Mental Health 01:00:55 Curiosity and the Pursuit of Knowledge 01:04:07 Philosophical Influences and Neuroecology 01:27:36 The Importance of Non-Reductive Neurophilosophy 01:30:39 Concluding Thoughts on Science and Philosophy
Royal Mind Brain Imaging and Neuroethics: https://www.theroyal.ca/research/biography/dr-georg-northoff
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-georg-northoff
Lab: https://www.georgnorthoff.com/researchers
Northoff was Andrea's supervisor for her Master thesis and she often attends his lab meetings: https://www.researchgate.ne
Join Michael Wheeler and Mirko Prokop as they dive into Heidegger’s phenomenology and its relevance for cognitive science as well as Michael’s recent work in the nascent field of the cognitive arts and humanities. Touching on philosophical and existential questions about the nature of mind and our relationship to the world and others, they explore the structure of human experience, its bodily, biological and social dimensions and discuss how artistic improvisation and creativity can lead us to see authenticity as the basic dynamic of thinking.
00:00: Introduction and guest welcome 02:26: Michael Wheeler’s journey into philosophy 04:23: What is phenomenology? 07:17: Introspection 10:57: The transcendental in the light of history 14:35: Heidegger’s Kantian side 17:17 : Heidegger vs. Descartes 21:22: Dasein: Heidegger’s conception of the subject 24:36: Being thrown into a meaningful world 26:00: "Equipment" in Heidegger 29:00: Being-in-the-world: totalities of involvement 36:55: Disturbances and skillful coping 41:00: The primacy of "online intelligence“ 45:46: How often do we experience flow? 50:52: The extended mind 01:00:15: McDowell on the personal and subpersonal 01:05:00: "Orthodox" cognitive science 01:10:00: Heideggerian Robots 01:12:36: Embodiment 01:18:57: Michael’s current work on authenticity 01:21:24: Anxiety: being thrown into a social world 01:22:03: Authenticity as the basic dynamic of thinking 01:26:29: The Cognitive Arts and Humanities 01:32:30: Biology, culture, and non-human animals 01:29:21 Integrating Cognitive Science with the Humanities
A conversation about Life, Longevity, and Human Connection between Sheng-Hung Lee, a designer, engineer, and educator from MIT’s Age Lab with experience at IDEO, and Andrea Hiott, a philosopher working in Heidelberg and the Netherlands. Together they discusses Lee's unique approach to design. He emphasizes design as a human skill rather than a hard or soft skill, focusing on the role of creativity and human connection in problem-solving. Reflecting on his career, including the redesign of the Shanghai Library and projects on longevity, Lee highlights the importance of holistic, life-centered design, community, and fulfillment over achievement. He shares stories about applying design thinking to everyday challenges, such as navigating the complexities of life and orienting towards personal goals in a world driven by efficiency. Lee also touches on designing for longevity, emphasizing holistic approaches and community engagement, while integrating personal anecdotes about cultural challenges and resilience. Join the conversation to explore the profound impact of thoughtful design on life itself, fostering deeper connections and a true sense of love and philosophy in all aspects of living: https://lovephilosophy.substack.com/ #designlife #humancentereddesign #ideo #fulfillment #loveandphilosophy #longevity
The inspirational cards discussed here are at: https://www.shenghunglee.com/reflection
00:00 Introduction to Human-Centered Design 01:12 Meet Sheng-Hung Lee: Designer, Engineer, Educator 01:54 The Philosophy of Design 02:50 Designing for Fulfillment and Systematic Impact 06:29 The Role of Patterns in Design 13:11 Human-Centered vs. Life-Centered Design 15:25 The Business of Design and Co-Creation 23:50 Personal Journey and Education 31:32 Balancing Achievement and Fulfillment 37:14 Physical Coding with Post-it Notes 37:28 Boundary Objects and Tangible Artifacts 38:18 Embracing Ambiguity in Design 39:22 Navigating Life's Challenges 41:44 Design Mindset in Everyday Problems 43:54 The Importance of Human Connection 52:20 Collaborative Design in the Shanghai Library Project 57:12 Design for Longevity and Holistic Well-being 01:04:07 The Role of Love and Community in Design 01:10:40 Final Thoughts and Reflections
https://www.shenghunglee.com
https://www.shenghunglee.com/designforlongevity
Join the Substack here: https://lovephilosophy.substack.com/
Consciousness is feeling. Thoughts are ways we maintain our homeostasis. A quick conversation with Mark Solms and Andrea Hiott on the topics of Mark's book The Hidden Spring.
Mark Solms is a South African psychoanalyst and neuropsychologist known for his discovery of the brain mechanisms of dreaming and his use of psychoanalytic methods in contemporary neuroscience. He is the Chair of Neuropsychology at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital (Departments of Psychology and Neurology), President of the South African Psychoanalytical Association, and Research Chair of the International Psychoanalytical Association. He founded the International Neuropsychoanalysis Society in 2000 and is a Founding Editor of the journal Neuropsychoanalysis.
The Mysteries of the Mind: From Childhood Trauma to Neuroscience Insights In this thought-provoking episode, we uncover a deeply personal journey sparked by a childhood trauma that led to a fascination with the brain and consciousness. Join us as a dedicated neuropsychologist and psychoanalyst shares how their brother's severe brain injury at a young age ignited a lifelong quest to understand the mind-body connection. We explore reflections on mortality, the challenges within academia, and pivotal discoveries about the brainstem's role in consciousness. Delve into Freud's neuroscience roots, the subjective nature of the mind, and how feelings underpin our conscious experiences. This episode bridges historical perspectives with contemporary research, offering profound insights into the architecture of consciousness and the essence of human awareness. #consciousness#rawfeeling#neuropsychiatry#freud#loveandphilosophy#hiddenspring#marksolms
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:24 A Childhood Trauma: The Accident 01:46 The Aftermath: Brother's Transformation 02:43 Early Realizations: Mind-Body Connection 08:20 Existential Questions and Depression 15:59 Academic Pursuits: Neuroscience and Consciousness 23:18 Discovering Freud and Psychoanalysis 26:07 The Struggle with Subjective Experience in Academia 26:53 Personal Reflections on Pain and Guilt 28:37 The Embarrassment of Subjective Mind in Science 29:24 Behaviorism and the Exclusion of the Mind
Alva Noë is Professor of Philosophy, and Chair of the Department of Philosophy, at the University of California, Berkeley, where he is also a member of the Center for New Media, and the Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences. Professor Noë is a 2012 recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship and a 2018 recipient of the Judd Hume Prize in Advanced Visual Studies. Until the end of 2024, he is an Einstein Visiting Fellow at the Free University in Berlin. He is the author of Action in Perception (2004), Out of Our Heads: Why You Are Not Your Brain and Other Lessons from the Biology of Consciousness (2009), Varieties of Presence (2012), Strange Tools: Art and Human Nature (2015), Infinite Baseball: Notes from a Philosopher at the Ballpark (2019), and Learning To Look: Dispatches from the Art World (2022). His latest book is The Entanglement: How Art and Philosophy Make Us What We Are (2023). https://www.alvanoe.com/
In this conversation, Andrea and Alva engage in an enlightening journey together through the realms of philosophy, neuroscience, and the arts, opening the work Noë has done and exploring its themes of self-awareness, identity, action and perception.
With insights from influential thinkers and doers like Vico, Dreyfus, Cezanne, Merleau-Ponty, and Noë himself, this conversation delves into the profound connections between love, work, and personal development and becomes a poetic meditation on meaning and connection. Per usual in Love and Philosophy, we find the motif of the loop that never quite returns to where it started, the dynamic entanglement of life, and how this gets conveyed through writing and language. Alva and Andrea explore the complexities of presence, the role of habits and societal structures, and the evolving understanding of vision and perception. The conversation also shows how interdisciplinary approaches and transformative literature shape our identities and consciousness from childhood on, and ultimately offers a balanced, holistic view of the human experience as difficult but worth it. Tune in for a thought-provoking discourse on the power of performance and the representation of self, including what tricky words like 'representation' and 'agency' might really be pointing at within the intricate dance of art and philosophy. Love and Philosophy Substack www.loveandphilosophy.com
RESEARCH CONVERSATION about the many ways the term consciousness is used in science, philosophy and everyday life. We also discuss cognitive processes, empathy, the meaning of life, the inevitability of death & of course, metaphysical idealism. SA Article, Analytic Idealism in a Nutshell
03:02 Intro 08:08 Metaconsciousness 19:11 Personal Experiences & Consciousness 25:07 Metacognition, Evolution of Physicalism 50:51 Mistake of Ultimate Belief 51:43 Misconceptions 52:28 Neuroscience & Hallucinations 53:15 Consistency of False Beliefs 53:33 UnReality, Controlled Hallucinations 56:00 Materialism vs. Idealism 01:07:28 Role of Dissociation 01:17:16 Physicalism & Idealism 01:31:12 Consciousness & Reality 01:40:45 Unified Field of Subjectivity 01:42:44 Living Philosophy 01:42:57 Empathy, Challenges 01:44:27 Fear of Death & Psychedelic Insights 01:46:06 Meaning & Acceptance 01:47:02 Judgment & Neutrality 02:02:51 Impersonal in Me 02:18:58 Bouncer of the Heart https://www.bernardokastrup.com/, http
Exploring Perspectival Realism: Are there many paths to the right place? In this episode, Andrea talks with Michela Massimi, a philosopher renowned for her book 'Perspectival Realism.' They look at what these terms mean, discussing the relevance of perspectivism in the philosophy of science and its implications for understanding scientific models, realism, and pluralism. The conversation explores how different perspectives can coexist in scientific inquiry without leading to relativism, and the role of local and experiential knowledge in contributing to scientific understanding. Massimi also shares her personal journey into philosophy and science, the influence of community and historical context on her work, and inspirations of both physics and literature.
00:00 Introduction to Perspectival Realism 01:02 Exploring Perspectival Realism in Philosophy of Science 02:27 Quotes from Borges and Calvino 06:43 Michela Massimi's Journey into Philosophy 11:04 Combining Physics and Philosophy 17:39 Pluralism and Realism in Science 20:01 Situated Knowledge and Modeling Reality 33:33 The Role of Models in Scientific Inference 34:42 Stable Events and Realism in Science 37:29 Natural Kinds and Anti-Essentialism 41:57 Metaphysics of Reality: Stable Events, Robust Phenomena, and Natural Kinds 50:32 The Importance of Historical and Multicultural Perspectives in Science 57:14 Philosophy's Role in Addressing Structural and Systemic Issues 01:06:59 Personal Reflections and the Interconnectedness of Life and Philosophy
Love and Philosophy? Beyond Dichotomy? What is this all about? A few unscripted thoughts today in the diary on thinking paradoxically. These diaries are not usually published on the podcast (just on the Substack and YouTube) but this one seemed relevant to post here too as a trailer or sorts. Hugs and love to you all, Andrea Hiott
Frank O'Hara, John Ashbery, Ludwig Wittgenstein, dualism, physics, and more. "John Koethe was born on December 25, 1945. He began writing poetry in 1964 during his undergraduate years at Princeton University and went on to receive a PhD in philosophy from Harvard University.
Koethe’s Ninety-fifth Street (Harper Perennial, 2009) won the 2010 Lenore Marshall Prize from the Academy of American Poets. He has published numerous other books of poetry, including Cemeteries and Galaxies (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2025); Walking Backwards: Poems 1966–2016 (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2018); The Swimmer (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2016); North Point North: New and Selected Poems (Harper Perennial, 2003), which was a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize; The Constructor (Harper Perennial, 1999); Falling Water (Harper Perennial, 1997), which won the Kingsley Tufts Award; Domes (Columbia University Press, 1974), which won the Frank O’Hara Award for Poetry; and Blue Vents (Audit/Poetry, 1968)."
Exploring the Intersection of Poetry and Philosophy with John Koethe In this episode of 'Love and Philosophy,' host Andrea interviews renowned poet and philosopher John Koethe. They discuss the concept of the oscillating self as a bridge between dichotomies, particularly within the realms of poetry and philosophy. John shares his journey from being a young poet influenced by figures like John Ashbury and Frank O'Hara, to earning a PhD in philosophy and balancing both disciplines throughout his career. They explore the themes of self-conversation in poetry, the intersection of scientific and artistic pursuits, and the enduring sense of awe in consciousness. The conversation also touches on the emotional landscapes of Koethe's poetry, including themes of nostalgia and the sublime. The episode concludes with a reading from Koethe's book 'Falling Water.'
00:00 Introduction to John Koethe 00:31 John Koethe's Background and Achievements 01:06 Balancing Poetry and Philosophy 03:45 Early Influences and Religious Upbringing 06:31 Transition to Literature and Philosophy 08:43 Discovering Modern Poetry 12:52 Meeting Influential Poets 21:23 Romanticism and Modernism in Poetry 23:46 Philosophical Dualism and the Mind-Body Problem 30:18 Modernism in Art, Literature, and Physics 33:27 Foundations of Quantum Mechanics 34:19 Exploring Perspectives in Poetry 35:43 Philosophical Influences and Oscillations 41:02 Conversations with Influential Thinkers 42:11 The Role of Conversation in Poetry 46:26 Philosophy vs. Poetry: Different Constraints 53:06 The Sublime and Self-Consciousness 58:41 Architecture and the Passage of Time 01:01:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future Works 01:02:56 Poetry Reading: The Realm of Ends
Minna Salami is a Nigerian-Finnish and Swedish feminist author, social critic and currently Program Chair at THE NEW INSTITUTE. She is the author of Can Feminism Be African? (forthcoming Harper Collins) and Sensuous Knowledge: A Black Feminist Approach for Everyone (Bloomsbury 2020) which has been translated into multiple languages. Minna is a leading voice of contemporary feminism, she has drawn over a million readers to her multiple award-winning blog MsAfropolitan.com. In this episode, Andrea Hiott has a profound conversation with author and philosopher Mina Salami about her influential book, 'Sensuous Knowledge.' Discussing themes from her book, such as multi-perspectival thinking, paradox, and different ways of understanding power, Mina shares how she integrates various disciplines and explores knowledge beyond a binary viewpoint. The conversation navigates into the relationship between love, meditation, and sensuous knowledge, and revisits Minna's personal journey across different cultures and identities. This enriching dialogue is a must-watch for anyone interested in expanding their understanding of epistemology and embracing more holistic, embodied ways of knowing that open beyond polarities.
00:00 Introduction to Mina Salami and Her Work 01:21 Understanding Paradox in Modern Society 03:37 Exploring Sensuous Knowledge 04:44 The Distinction Between Sensuous and Sensual 31:24 The Concept of Double Consciousness 44:33 Meditation and Sensuous Knowledge 50:25 The Divine Nature of Poetry 51:41 Childhood Experiences with Automatic Writing 53:27 Struggles and Spiritual Interpretations 55:05 Discovering Automatic Writing and Meditation 01:00:02 The Concept of Power and Its Misinterpretations 01:01:44 The Mountain Metaphor and Diverse Perspectives 01:06:27 Language, Double Consciousness, and Feminism 01:11:15 Reimagining Power and Sensuous Knowledge 01:32:50 The Role of Love in Knowledge and Existence
Join the Substack here: https://lovephilosophy.substack.com/ Philosophical writings here: https://communityphilosophy.substack.com/ Du Bois and Double Consciousness: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/double-consciousness/ #perspectival #sensuous #knowledgeispower #loveandphilosophy #holdtheparadox #andreahiott #minnasalami
Neuroscience, AI, and Philosophy with Paul from Brain Inspired Can we think about education (and age) differently? Was it worth it to give up academia, move into an RV and create a podcast? Can we think differently about computation and representation?
Paul Middlebrooks is no gadfly but as you'll hear, the one thing he knows is that he does not know (as Plato quotes Socrates: "All I know is that I know nothing.") He quit academia and started a podcast and has since become an important voice to many of us through his questioning. #loveandphilosophy#neuroai#podcasting#neuroscience#brain#inspired Shownotes: www.loveandphilosophy.com
Brain inspired just had its 200th episode ! And this is a celebration of it. Paul spent over 10 years as a neuroscientist studying visual decision-making in nonhuman primates. A few years as a technician, 4 years obtaining a PhD, and 6 years as a postdoctoral researcher. Then he left academia and he and his wife sold all their stuff, moved into an RV, and roamed around the country, ending up in Durango for a time. During that time, he also started Brain Inspired. Now Paul is a Special Faculty Research Associate in the Yttri Lab at Carnegie Mellon University, studying the wonders of neuroethology.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:06 Starting the Brain Inspired Podcast 00:43 AI and Neuroscience: A Changing Landscape 00:59 Philosophical Perspectives on AI 03:28 Challenges in Neuroscience Terminology 04:11 Struggles with Scientific Paradigms 12:30 Exploring Metacognition in Monkeys 20:27 Transitioning from Academia to Podcasting 23:45 Recording Single Neurons: A Phenomenological Insight 32:56 The Motivation Behind the Podcast 42:37 Selling Everything and Hitting the Road 42:56 Starting an Online Business 43:11 The Birth of Brain Inspired 44:10 Struggles and Financial Realities 45:03 Returning to Academia 45:43 The Role of Podcasts in Science Communication 49:01 Philosophy and Neuroscience 56:35 The Importance of Models in Science 01:12:20 The Human Side of Academia 01:14:31 Love and Legacy 01:20:38 Final Reflections Patricia Churchland Neurophilosophy Mark H. Bickhard: Mind as Process, Process Metaphysics Join #AndreaHiott and #PaulMiddlebrooks from the 'Brain Inspired' podcast. They discuss the evolution of neuroscience and AI from 2018 to 2024, personal journeys in academia, the influence of philosophical perspectives, and the nuances of love and consciousness. Paul shares insights on the challenges of balancing career ambitions with personal values and family life, and how his podcast has become a bridge for deeper learning and connection in the scientific community. This episode is a blend of professional insights and
A look into the ideas of ecological psychology with legendary Harry Heft. Known for his renowned contributions to environmental and ecological psychology, Heft discusses the concept of affordances, a term coined by JJ Gibson, and its application across various fields. Heft traces the intellectual lineage from William James to Gibson, emphasizing a relational rather than dualistic approach to understanding perception and action. The conversation spans affordances in cultural contexts, the significance of immediate experience, the importance of teaching and the dynamic relationship between humans and their environment. Video here. Show notes here. 00:00 Introduction to Relational Thinking 00:45 Affordances and Cultural Domain 01:20 Navigating Without Maps 01:42 Animacy and Historical Context 02:09 Welcome and Guest Introduction 02:54 Exploring Affordances with Harry Heft 07:25 Upcoming Conversations and Reflections 08:46 Harry Heft's Journey into Environmental Psychology 12:38 Understanding Ecological Psychology 21:08 Behaviorism and Perception 37:54 Affordances in Design and Interaction 40:59 The Power of Affordances in AI and Robotics 42:54 Affordances in Cultural Contexts 43:58 Wayfinding and Navigation: A Deeper Dive 47:04 Cognitive Maps and Perception 01:00:26 The Evolution of Gibson's Theories 01:12:30 Teaching and Environmental Awareness 01:17:30 Acts of Love in Teaching and Writing Harry's book on James and Gibson Affordances in the Body "Prof. Heft has been on the Denison faculty since 1976. His graduate training was in an interdisciplinary program concerning the relationship between psychological processes and the environment. At Denison, he has been a recipient of the Charles A. Brickman Award for Teaching Excellence. He has also been elected as a Fellow in both the American Psychological Association and the American Psychological Society. Dr. Heft serves on the Editorial Boards of the journals “Environment & Behavior” and “William James Studies,” and he is the Book Review Editor for the “Journal of Environmental Psychology.” He teaches courses in environmental psychology, history and systems of psychology, and cultural psychology.'
Karl Friston has ranked as 'the most influential brain scientist in the world' and been called a genius (as in the WIRED magazine piece), though many find his work mysterious. The melody of this unique conversation between Karl and Andrea, however, is the concept of 'flow' and how it relates to making the right choices within a constantly changing world. Andrea and Karl also explore Friston's significant contributions, including active inference and the free energy principle, discussing how these models might provide a first-principles account of sentient behavior. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the mathematics and neuroscience behind Friston's theories to practical implications in understanding human behavior and consciousness. It also touches on the theme of interconnectedness, emphasizing the importance of listening, empathy, and holding paradoxes to understand the patterns that connect various scales of life and cognition.
00:00 Introduction to Flow and Existence 02:42 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 02:53 Holiday Episode and One-Year Anniversary 03:59 Introducing Karl Friston and His Work 04:32 Understanding the Free Energy Principle 04:59 The Intersection of Math, Neuroscience, and Everyday Life 12:24 Karl Friston's Journey and Contributions 21:16 The Role of Psychiatry in Karl's Career 24:34 The Disconnection Hypothesis in Schizophrenia 29:53 The Evolution of Brain Imaging 36:17 The Importance of Brain Imaging Software 39:07 Statistical Parametric Mapping Explained 41:27 Functional Segregation and Integration 42:36 Dynamic Causal Modeling and Connectivity 43:00 Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) 44:18 The Paradigm Shift in Cognitive Neuroscience 49:43 The Free Energy Principle and Active Inference 50:34 Unconscious Inference and Bayesian Belief 58:53 Thermostats vs. Human Cognition 01:06:44 Affordances and the Free Energy Principle 01:20:02 Scale Invariance and the Free Energy Principle 01:22:23 Entropy and Energy in Thermodynamics 01:23:39 Understanding Sensory Entropy 01:25:47 Maximizing Variational Entropy 01:29:25 Fractals and Multiscale Patterns 01:35:02 Hierarchies in the Brain 01:46:40 Generative Models and Perspective 01:52:46 Social Neuroscience and Group Dynamics 01:57:40 The Importance of Listening and Empathy 02:00:46 Reflections and New Year Resolutions
Happy 2025 ❤️ everyone. Philosopher Evan Thompson discusses 'The Blind Spot' which delves into the complexities of human perception, science, and the interconnectedness of nature. Together Andrea Hiott and Evan Thompson explore themes such as the impact of idealized scientific models on our understanding of reality, the importance of integrating arts and humanities with STEM disciplines, and the urgency of addressing ecological and meaning crises. The episode also touches on the historical context and influences behind Thompson's work, including his upbringing around pioneering thinkers like Lynn Margulis, Francisco Varela and Gregory Bateson. Evan wrote The Blind Spot with astrophysicist Adam Frank and theoretical physicist Marcelo Gleiser.
00:00 Understanding the Crisis: Human Impact on the Planet 02:25 Introduction to Love and Philosophy 02:46 Interview with Philosopher Evan Thompson 03:02 Exploring Evan Thompson's Background and Influences 04:36 Discussing 'The Blind Spot' and Its Themes 05:32 The Concept of Crisis and Its Philosophical Roots 06:18 The Parable of Temperature and Scientific Abstraction 21:40 The Bifurcation of Nature and Its Implications 35:19 Philosophical Practices and Cognitive Humility 41:06 Philosophers with a Scientific Background 41:35 The Crisis of Meaning in Science 42:26 Science Triumph and Denial 44:36 Educational Emphasis on STEM 45:36 Technology and Scientific Models 47:02 Atoms, Electrons, and Reality 50:07 Large Language Models and Understanding 56:53 The Evolution of Cognitive Science 01:00:24 The Influence of Heterodox Thinkers 01:14:31 The Importance of Love in Knowledge 01:17:17 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
Logic, Self-consciousness, and the continuity of mind and life: This episode is with Karen Ng, author of Hegel's Concept of Life, and an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University. Andrea and Karen discuss Hegel's concept of life, self-consciousness, and the problem of contradiction, emphasizing how life and love are fundamental to understanding his ideas. The episode moves through Kant's influence on Hegel, internal and external purposiveness, and how these philosophical concepts relate to our modern understanding of the mind, nature, and meaning. Karen shares her journey and insights on making Hegel’s complex ideas accessible and relevant to contemporary issues.
“True union, or love proper, exists only between living beings who are alike in power and thus in one another’s eyes living beings from every point of view; in no respect is either dead for the other.”
“… love is a sensing of something living …”
These Hegel quotes that Karen mentions are from the fragment on love, published in Early Theological Writings, trans. T.M. Knox, UPenn Press, 1975. The passages are on pages 304 and 305. And the German can be found in volume 1 of the Suhrkamp edition of Hegel’s Werke.
Mark Solms | Part 2 | Can love bring us beyond traditional divides? Please join in support Mark Solms is a professor in the Department of Neuropsychology at the University of Cape Town: "My early research focused on the brain mechanisms of sleep and dreaming led to an interest in consciousness, which is currently my major focus. My emphasis is on brainstem mechanisms of consciousness and the foundational role of affect, emotional affect in particular. This work has included applications to various neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anosognosia and confabulatory amnesia, and, more recently, depression and addiction."
In this episode, Andrea and Mark discuss the intricate dimensions of love and consciousness. Solms and Hiott explore the various elements that constitute love, including romantic love, attachment, and care. Solms highlights the complexities of human emotions and how they integrate into love and relationships. Solms also discusses the concepts of narcissism, object love, and how the integration of different emotional drives forms advanced states of mind. The conversation touches on the importance of subjectivity in neuroscience, the development of self-awareness, and Freud's contribution to understanding human nature. The episode provides a nuanced look at how feelings are fundamental to conscious experience and the obligation of science to incorporate subjectivity into its worldview.
00:00 Understanding Consciousness and Self-Awareness 00:55 The Complexity of Love and Relationships 02:47 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 04:48 Exploring the Concept of Love 05:40 The Components of Romantic Love 08:20 Attachment and Care in Relationships 11:56 Balancing Emotions in Love 17:18 The Role of Feelings in Human Nature 29:05 Exploring the Nature of Love in Mammals 30:33 Philosophical Love: The Quest for Knowledge 31:25 Lust and Its Complex Relationship with Love 32:42 Freud's Concept of Narcissism 35:22 Integrating Lust and Attachment 43:36 The Evolution of Consciousness 51:28 Freud's Scientific Project and Subjectivity 57:05 Balancing Objective and Subjective Realities 01:00:08 Concluding Thoughts on Love and Consciousness
Exploring Human Embodiment and Conviviality with Thomas Fuchs, the Karl Jaspers Professor of Philosophy and Psychiatry, Heidelberg University, Germany
Join Andrea for an insightful conversation with Thomas Fuchs, a philosopher and psychiatrist at Universität Heidelberg, as they delve into his book, 'In Defense of the Human Being.' Explore the profound questions about our distinctiveness from machines, the concept of 'conviviality,' and the essence of human embodiment. They discuss the oscillation between self-aggrandizement and self-contempt and how intersubjectivity and embodied experiences are central to understanding what it means to be human. Discover how modern technology impacts our self-perception and the importance of regaining a balanced relationship with our body and others. This episode is a deep dive into the notions of self-awareness, bodily presence, and the interrelation of life, mind, and technology.
00:00 Introduction: Are We Distinct from Machines? 01:32 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 01:36 Introducing Thomas Fuchs and His Work 02:15 Conviviality and Intersubjectivity 03:51 The Theory of Mind and Human Experience 07:56 The Defense of the Human Being 08:51 The Impact of Technology and Transhumanism 18:18 Embodiment and the Human Condition 24:23 The Illusion of Mind-Body Separation 40:29 The Role of Intersubjectivity 57:53 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
Decoding the Empowerment Measurement in AI and Robotics with Dari Trendafilov. Dari has a PhD in Computing Science from the University of Glasgow, UK. His research interests are situated at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Human–Computer Interaction. He specialized in probabilistic information-theoretic modelling of complex systems and analysis of computational and interactive cognitive systems in the context of social and human–robot interaction. Towards his aim of establishing the fundamental information processing principles driving decision-making in living organisms, he has developed information-theoretic models and tools for the study of human sensorimotor dynamics, robotic and simulated systems, based on behavioural and physiological sensing and analysis.
In this episode, Andrea and Dari explore the concept of empowerment in the context of artificial intelligence and robotics. The discussion covers Claude Shannon's information theory, intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, and the application of these theories in human-computer interaction and swarm robotics. Dari shares insights from his research on swarm intelligence and the use of evolutionary algorithms for collective decision-making. The episode also touches on the broader implications of modeling intelligence and the dynamic interaction between agents and their environments.
00:00 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 00:11 Understanding Empowerment and Information Theory 01:41 Empowerment in Artificial Intelligence 04:43 Robotics and Human Interaction 06:56 Exploring the Concept of Empowerment 19:29 Swarm Robotics and Collective Intelligence 33:59 Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Motivation 40:36 Modeling Nature Through Robotics 42:38 The Journey to Empowerment Research 43:28 Challenges in Human-Computer Interaction 44:04 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Usability 44:50 Usability Engineering and Market Demands 45:30 Formal Models and Theories in HCI 47:20 Understanding Empowerment in HCI 51:01 The Role of Affordances 52:33 Introduction to Empowerment 53:07 Empowerment in Practice 53:33 Empowerment as a Measure 01:00:56 Applications and Implications of Empowerment 01:08:11 Swarm Robotics and Collective Intelligence 01:14:16 Modeling Intelligence and Future Directions
In this episode, which was recorded in the autumn of 2024, Andrea Hiott talks with environmental philosopher and public intellectual Rupert Read. They delve into Read's realization that 'this civilization is finished,' his engagement with Wittgenstein's philosophy (especially the book he edited with Alice Crary), his subsequent involvement with Extinction Rebellion, how he has come to understand crisis as inflections of love, and the 'moving forward' work of the Climate Majority Project. The conversation explores themes of crisis, consciousness, intergenerational solidarity, and the liberating power of love and truth in the face of existential challenges. Read shares insights from his academic and activist career, emphasizing the importance of inner work, eco-spirituality, and the collective struggle for a better future.
00:00 A Shocking Revelation 00:20 Philosophy and Freedom 01:02 Wittgenstein's Wonderful Life 01:20 Embracing Difficult Emotions 02:29 Introduction to the Interview 02:33 Rupert Reed's Background 04:21 Philosophy as Therapy 05:06 Love as Action 07:51 Rupert Reed's Crisis 09:50 Philosophy and Personal Crisis 11:33 Wittgenstein's Liberatory Philosophy 23:28 Spiritual Practices and Eco-Spirituality 37:05 Climate Courage Campaign 39:16 The Importance of Truth 44:07 The Path to Truthfulness 44:55 The Revelation: Civilization is Finished 46:49 Engaging with Students and Public Reaction 47:54 Joining Extinction Rebellion 48:50 The Challenge of Facing Hard Realities 51:18 The Importance of Paradox and Love 55:21 The Role of Anxiety and Dreams 57:48 Extinction Rebellion's Evolution 01:01:49 The Climate Majority Project 01:10:51 Intergenerational Solidarity and Responsibility 01:17:24 Embracing Difficult Emotions 01:22:50 Final Thoughts and Invitation to Action
Elena Clare Cuffari is a Professor at Franklin and Marshall College. Shay Welch is a professor at Spelman College in Atlanta. In this episode, they discuss embodied cognition and participatory sensemaking in relation to marginalized body epistemologies. They share insights from a recent conference that brought together diverse perspectives on how embodied cognition intersects with issues of race, gender, and activism. Welch emphasizes that she never separates her scholarship from her personal life, seeing philosophy as inherently connected to her lived experience. Cuffari highlights the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of her work with colleagues, which seeks to challenge traditional philosophical boundaries. They address the challenges of integrating marginalized voices into academic fields and the importance of recognizing the body's knowledge. The conversation also touches on the discomfort that arises in both academic and social contexts when established norms are challenged, and how this requires responsibility beyond blame.
00:00 Building a Community for Philosophical Dialogue 02:02 Introduction to Embodied Cognition and Participatory Sensemaking 02:22 Exploring Personal Philosophical Interests 04:11 Defining Embodied Cognition and Participatory Sensemaking 08:08 The Roots and Relevance of Embodied Cognition 15:14 Challenges in Academia and Marginalized Philosophies 28:51 The Concept of Normalcy in Philosophy and Society 37:17 Addressing Misunderstandings in Philosophy 39:34 Inclusivity and Change in Philosophy 43:18 Discomfort and Openness in Philosophical Inquiry 49:44 Marginalized Body Epistemologies 01:01:43 The Intersection of Philosophy and Personal Experience 01:05:57 Reflections on the Conference and Future Directions
#paradox of #love and #agency Yogi aka. Johannes Jaeger like to fashion himself as a natural philosopher. After having his own lab and being the director of an institute in Vienna he left academia for pursuing intellectual production independently. He is part of an science-art collective in Vienna called The Zone. His focus has been primarily focused on his book, Beyond the Age of #Machines, which he had been publishing incrementally in digital form. Fotis Tsiroukis is a cross-disciplinary researcher interested in the intersection between humanities, science and new media. Also a cyborg...
In this episode of the Love & Philosophy Podcast, host Fotis engages in a deep and thought-provoking conversation with Johannes "Yogi" Jaeger, a freelance scholar and biologist-turned-philosopher. Yogi critiques the dominant "machine worldview" that has shaped modernity, arguing that it has led human civilization to a dangerous "cliff edge". He advocates for a shift towards a process-oriented, relational metaphysics that emphasizes the interconnectedness of living systems and the limitations of computational models. Yogi also discusses the pitfalls of AI, the dangers of technological hubris, and the need for a new kind of science that reconnects us with reality. The conversation touches on themes of agency, the limitations of a computationalist worldview and the importance of tough love in guiding humanity towards a more sustainable and meaningful future.
#computationalism
1. [00:00:00] Snippets 2. [00:02:10] Introduction (by Fotis) 3. [00:10:00] Yogi as a Natural Philosopher 4. [00:13:00] Critique of Modern Science 5. [00:14:30] Yogi’s Journey of Dissilusionment: from Molecular Biologist to Freelance Theorist 6. [00:20:00] The Problem with the Academic System 7. [00:25:00] The Need for a New Metaphysics 8. [00:28:00] Getting Back in Touch with Reality 9. [00:32:00] Postmodernism & Metamodernism 10. [00:36:00] The Danger of Technological Hubris 11. [00:40:00] Complexity Science and the Pitfalls of the Computationalist Wordlview 12. [00:45:00] The Illusion of Total Control 13. [00:49:00] The Misuse of AI 14. [00:54:00] Preping for the Collapse of this Civilization 15. [00:57:00] AI "Agents" aren't Real Agents 16. [01:05:00] The Illusion of AI Sentience 17. [01:10:00] The Free Energy Principle and Reductionism 18. [01:20:00] The Importance of Relevance Realization 19. [01:25:00] The Role of Relationality and Connection 20. [01:30:00] Tough Love for Humanity 21. [01:35:00] Closing Thoughts
'Needful Freedom' comes from the work of philosopher Hans Jonas and though this podcast is not about Jonas, Andrea and Mike discuss this term towards understanding the skill of the future.
Mike's bio: "Ex-tech exec, now a reluctant Cassandra. Penning dispatches from democracy's peril at notesfromthecircus.com. Unmasking the unholy alliance of Silicon Valley and aspiring despots. 2+2=4, even when power insists otherwise."
Cognitive Revolution: Mike Brock on Love, Truth, and the Future of Democracy:
In this deep and thought-provoking episode, Mike Brock, an ex-tech executive and renowned writer, dives into the essence of human flourishing, liberal philosophy, and the crises we face today. With a powerful call for a cognitive revolution, Brock explores the balance between freedom and obligation, the pitfalls of technology, and the importance of love and shared understanding in navigating uncertainty. This conversation spans from historical insights to current events, offering a nuanced perspective on what it means to stay human in a rapidly changing world.
00:00 Introduction to Human Flourishing and Liberalism 02:11 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 02:23 Introducing Mike Brock 03:16 The Cognitive Revolution and Love 05:31 The Role of Algorithms and Technology 06:41 The Grand Praxis and Emotional Honesty 32:44 Exploring Liberalism and Its Tensions 45:20 The Problem with Marxism and Liberalism 47:24 The Liberal Frontier and Welfare State 50:02 Debating Bias and Neutrality 01:14:35 The Crisis of Epistemic Fragmentation 01:18:39 The Role of Technology in Human Experience 01:30:18 The Fear of Asking Questions 01:30:54 Tech Oligarchs and Social Media Impact 01:33:44 The Cognitive Revolution 01:36:31 Praxis and Emotional Connection 01:37:40 The Role of a Prosecutor in Memetic Warfare 01:41:03 The Importance of Intellectual Honesty 01:41:46 The Intersection of Love and Philosophy 01:56:16 The Tension Between Creation and Chaos 01:57:16 The Legacy of Thinkers: Sagan and Hitchens 02:12:26 The Necessity of Intellectual Gatekeeping 02:14:31 The Importance of Understanding and Dialogue 02:15:37 Path Dependency and Shared Experiences 02:16:41 Frustrations with Social Justice Activism 02:17:48 The Role of Persuasion in Social Progress 02:21:32 AI Governance and Democratic Values 02:23:03 The Dangers of Algorithmic Thinking 02:31:06 Elon Musk and the Temptation of Efficiency 02:41:54 The Call for a Cognitive Revolution 02:53:25 Final Thoughts and Advice for Authentic Living
In this episode of Love and Philosophy, Andrea engages with Clive Grinyer, a renowned industrial and service designer and the director of Project Love. The discussion centers around how design can be a catalyst for fostering love, empathy, and compassion in society, and how this is a form of collective cognition. They explore various innovative projects, including a conversational bench, a heat map app, and a secular gravestone for natural beauty spots. The conversation delves into the philosophy behind design and how it influences our daily interactions and emotions. Grinyer shares insights from his extensive experience and highlights the transformative impact of design thinking in both personal and societal contexts.
00:00 Introduction: The Power of Design 01:17 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 01:43 Introducing Clive Grinyer and Project Love 06:19 Exploring Love Through Design 07:17 Defining Love and Design 21:39 Innovative Projects and Concepts 28:59 Community and Societal Impact 35:47 The Social Impact of Design 35:51 Designing for Sustainability and Economic Viability 36:01 The Complexity and Perception of Design 36:19 The Role of AI in Design 36:59 Technology and Human Experience 37:19 Design in Everyday Life 38:16 The Evolution of Technology Design 39:22 Emotional Design and User Experience 40:25 Project Love: Designing for Compassion 01:02:00 Empathy in Design 01:04:39 Future Directions and Community Building
"Clive Grinyer is an internationally renowned designer who has led global design teams at Samsung, Cisco, Orange and Barclays, worked at design consultancy IDEO, and was co-founder of the design company Tangerine. Starting as a product designer he has moved across digital, customer experience and service design and was Director of Design for the UK Design Council. As Head of Service Design at the Royal College of Art, he pioneered design as a tool for social impact, shaping how we respond to the environmental crisis and develop life services including financial and healthcare. He is an advisor and delivers executive training to companies including Bosch, the Dorchester Collection of hotels, and the Bank of England. Clive was a trustee of the Royal Society of Arts, Chair of the Design Business Association Effectiveness awards and visiting professor at the Glasgow School of Art. He is currently based in London."
Life is not built by blocks but by lines woven together according to Tim Ingold, emeritus professor of anthropology at the University of Aberdeen and a leading thinker in anthropology and philosophy. Tim Ingold and Andrea Hiott explore key themes from Tim's influential works, such as 'Anthropology: Why It Matters' and 'Lines,' discussing how life is a continuous journey along interwoven threads and traces shaped by our every action. Building on Gibson, Deleuze, Hallowell, Merleau-Ponty, and others, Ingold's idea of 'wayfaring' as our fundamental mode of being challenges traditional distinctions between nature and culture, mind and body, and forces us out of block-mind and into traces and threads of life interwoven. This enriching dialogue touches on the importance of awareness, attention, and responsibility, offering insights into how these ideas can help us navigate toward a world where love and respect for life are central. Whether it's through storytelling, music, or everyday actions, learn how our paths shape our humanity and influence the futures we create. This episode is an opportunity to reflect on how we should live together in a world full of possibility, a world we love enough to take responsibility for together.
00:00 Introduction to Love and Philosophy 00:05 Introducing Tim Ingold and His Work 00:43 The Concept of Lines in Life 01:43 Wayfaring and Life as a Process 02:54 The Importance of Awareness and Responsibility 04:18 Tim Ingold's Influences and Philosophical Approach 10:28 Tim Ingold's Early Life and Inspirations 17:26 Fieldwork and Anthropology 25:16 Challenging Traditional Divisions in Science and Humanities 32:07 The Evolution of Tim Ingold's Thought 48:47 Revisiting Nature and Culture 51:48 Anthropology as a Conversation 54:46 The Anthropological Conversation 56:12 Subject and Object in Anthropology 57:58 The Middle Voice of the Verb 59:39 Crafting and Teaching 01:06:38 The Concept of Lines 01:13:24 Embodiment and Attention 01:27:42 The Future of Technology and Education 01:39:52 Hope for the Future
‘For we are made of lines. We are not only referring to lines of writing. Lines of writing conjugate with other lines, life lines, lines of luck or misfortune, lines productive of the variation of the line of writing itself, lines that are between the lines of writing.’
— Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari, A Thousand Plateaus
Ritournelle is a concept created by Gilles Deleuze & Felix Guattari for A Thousand Plateaus (1987.) It's the main subject of 11th plateau 1837: Of the refrain. In this episode of 'Love and Philosophy,' host Andrea Hiott engages in a deep and thought-provoking conversation with philosopher, psychologist, and poet Bayo Akomolafe. They discuss the transformative power of love, the complexities beyond binary categorizations, and the idea of life as a process filled with relational tensions and incompleteness. The discussion covers Bayo's personal journey, including reflections on his father and his book 'These Wilds Beyond Our Fences.' They explore themes of care, disruption, and the radical incompleteness of reality, providing listeners with insights into how we can embrace the multiplicities of being human.
00:00 Introduction to Categories and Relational Tensions 02:20 Welcome to Love and Philosophy 02:43 Introducing Bayo Akomolafe 03:19 Themes of the Podcast and Bayo's Background 05:36 Binaries and Relationality 09:11 Personal Reflections and Philosophical Insights 09:46 The Concept of Retournello and Repetition 10:56 Navigating Categories and Structures 12:22 The Story of Bayo's Daughter 14:17 Philosophical Reflections on Life and Death 23:05 The Role of Trauma and Healing 32:11 The Pandemic and Societal Reflections 36:42 Love as Radical Incompleteness 38:27 Conclusion and Farewell
Andrea and Fotis (a guest host of L&P) explore the intricate world of podcasting. Fotis, returning from a previous episode and getting ready to do his second podcast for L&P, asks Andrea about the podcast's growth. In this unplanned chat, the two talk a bit about what podcasts mean to them, Game B, the intersection of various disciplines, and the broader impact of podcasting as a medium. They discuss the research and connective side of podcasting and reflect on this new journey, sharing insights on authenticity, community-building, and the challenges of navigating complex topics. Tune in for a quick half-hour chat that delves into their motivations, the evolution of their podcast, and the significance of having meaningful, open-hearted conversations that come from a place of love, even when they are challenging.
01:13 Discussing Podcast Growth and Community 02:02 The Philosophy Behind Podcasting 05:25 Challenges and Responsibilities of Content Creation 07:30 Interconnectedness and Network Building 11:15 The Unique Nature of Podcasts 12:14 Exploring Diverse Podcast Communities 26:02 Future Directions and Personal Reflections 34:31 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps
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