Episodes

Henri Bergson and the Flow of Time

August 17, 2025

Many people think of time as a series of events, like successive frames in a movie. But French philosopher Henri Bergson (1859-1941) argued that this widespread picture was wrong: everything is in constant motion, and can’t be captured by a series of static descriptions. So…

Iris Murdoch

April 13, 2025

Iris Murdoch may be best known for her works of fiction, but her philosophical contributions…

Black and white photo of Iris Murdoch, author, sitting on a bed, holding papers.

The Philosophy of Smell

April 6, 2025

When philosophers think about human perception, they tend to focus on vision and turn their…

Cross-section of head smelling roses; olfactory system highlighted. Philosophy of smell.

Judith Jarvis Thomson

March 16, 2025

Judith Jarvis Thomson is best known for arguing that abortion is morally permissible, even granting…

Black and white portrait of philosopher Judith Jarvis Thomson.

Why Trust Science?

March 9, 2025

According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, the number of Americans…

In Science We Trust: graphic with science icons

W.E.B. Du Bois

February 23, 2025

Sociologist, historian, philosopher, editor, writer, and activist, W.E.B. Du Bois was one of the most…

W.E.B. Du Bois portrait; The Souls of Black Folk

How to Create Virtuous Leaders

January 19, 2025

Ancient philosophers like Socrates and Plato believed that an education focused on developing good character…

A man in a suit stands before a group of robed figures, symbolizing virtuous leadership.

Elizabeth Anscombe

January 13, 2025

Elizabeth Anscombe made hugely influential contributions to contemporary action theory, moral theory, and philosophy of…

Black and white portrait of philosopher Elizabeth Anscombe.

Who Owns Culture?

January 5, 2025

Fashion designers, musicians, and Halloween costume wearers have been accused of engaging in cultural appropriation.…

Abstract Southwestern-style textile pattern with the question, "When is it OK?

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