Recent Episodes

What Is Game Theory?

August 16, 2026

Game theory is a set of mathematical techniques for thinking about how people should choose when their choices interact. But real people aren’t exactly rational actors. Can a mathematical model explain real-world decisions? How can game theorists account for the fact that we don’t always…

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.

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?

The Examined Year: 2024

December 29, 2024

What happened over the past year that challenged our assumptions and made us think about…

2024-year-inside-magnifier-glass-yellow-background-focus-preparation-new-year-change-start-new-business-target-strategy-concept_50039-4796

Is Optimism Rational?

December 8, 2024

When the odds are against you, believing in yourself can be a source of strength—but…

Animated boy standing in floodwater, looking optimistic.

Spinoza

November 24, 2024

Baruch Spinoza was a 17th century Dutch philosopher who laid the foundations for the Enlightenment.…

Two portraits of Baruch Spinoza (1632-1677), philosopher.

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