

Love & Philosophy
Beyond Dichotomy | Andrea Hiott
It's reasonable to care. Exploring philosophical, scientific, technological & poetic spaces beyond either/or bounds. From the heart. Deeply researched. Mostly unscripted.Hosted by philosopher and cognitive scientist Andrea Hiott. A project with Making Ways.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 9min
#62: Living Philosophically and Thinking Wild with professor of technology Jessica Böhme
Send a love messageJessica Böhme is a sustainability scientist, transformation researcher, and founder of the Institute for Practical Eco Philosophy. Jessica shares her journey of exploring the connection between inner transformation and outer change, and how this quest has influenced her personal and professional life. Andrea and Jessica delve into the concept of living philosophically, the role of relational philosophies, and how they impact sustainability. They also discuss the challenges Jessica faced in academia, the significance of personal practices, and her innovative idea of 'philosophy gyms' aimed at integrating philosophy into everyday life for better ecological and business practices in the engineering world. Jessica also talks about her unique lifestyle choices, her artwork, and the broader implications of living a thoughtful, engaged life.00:00 Introduction to Inner and Outer Change00:29 Philosophy as a Way of Life01:59 Welcome to Love and Philosophy02:04 Introducing Jessica Böhme02:37 Exploring Relational Philosophy03:28 Philosophy Gyms and Ecological Love04:21 The Knowledge-Action Gap06:50 Jessica's Academic Journey09:42 Inner Transformation and Sustainability10:01 Mechanistic vs. Relational Worldview12:34 Challenges in Sustainability Science13:39 The Complexity of Relational Thinking32:05 Philosophy as a Living Process37:13 The Paradox of Science and Health38:13 Personal and Planetary Health39:43 Patterns in Health and Consumption40:47 The Role of Awareness and Choice42:28 Practical Eco Philosophy44:04 Micro Habits and Daily Practices48:34 Living Philosophically59:44 The Concept of Wild01:01:04 Art and Expression01:04:51 Philosophy Gyms and Experiments01:08:59 Final Thoughts and FarewellJessica's BlogInstitute for Practical ekoPhilosophyPierre Hadot: Philosophy as a Way of LifeKaren BaradSupport the showPlease rate and review with love. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Substack.

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 27min
#61: Burning to Give Light: the delicate balance of illness and insight with former Wall Streeter Tom Morgan
Send a love message GiveSupport with a SubscriptionThe line between a psychotic break and success is not quite as clear as it once was, nor is the question of what medication, therapy, or practice is best, or in what amount. This conversation tries to unpack that liminal space with a man who knows it well and has been able to stay connected to the love in it.In this episode of Love and Philosophy, Andrea engages in an in-depth conversation with Tom Morgan, exploring the complexities of love, philosophy, and personal transformation. They discuss the challenging balance between high-functioning careers and spiritual pursuits, the misconceptions around self-sacrifice and service, and the importance of community in navigating life transitions. Tom shares his personal journey from a high-stress finance career through an awakening experience, detailing his struggles with mental health, the role of psychiatric medication, and the lessons he's learned about integrating holistic and scientific perspectives. This episode delves into the nuanced intersections of mental health, personal growth, and the pursuit of meaning, offering invaluable insights for anyone on a similar path.00:00 Introduction to Love and Philosophy00:06 Exploring the Concept of Love01:06 Introducing Tom Morgan01:57 Tom's Journey from Finance to Philosophy03:28 Balancing Wealth and Well-being05:42 The Intersection of Science and Spirituality08:28 Tom's Personal Awakening13:54 Navigating the Hero's Journey20:10 Challenges of Spiritual Integration23:10 Holding the Tension Between Worlds43:54 The Choice to Change45:38 The Struggle with Identity and Career47:07 Understanding Self-Sacrifice vs. Service47:46 The Paradox of Complexity51:01 The Role of Ketamine and Mental Health58:56 Integrating Spiritual and Physical Health01:06:45 The Importance of Community Support01:09:58 Navigating High-Functioning Anxiety01:17:23 Embracing Love and Contribution01:22:50 The Future of Consciousness and SocietyProfessional Qalifications & Photo Ref (Wall Street, philosophy degree from Oxford, etc.)The Leading EdgeTom's SubstackAndrea's SubstackHero's JourneyJill Bolte TaylorVictor Frankl — 'What is to give light must endure burning.'Support the showPlease rate and review with love. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Substack.

4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 13min
#60: The Dao of Complexity with theoretical physicist Jean Boulton
Join theoretical physicist and author Jean Boulton, an expert in complexity science, as she explores the fascinating intersection of her field with Daoism. She discusses how stability and change are intertwined, emphasizing the impact of small acts of compassion in fostering resilience. Jean shares her personal journey from quantum physics to embracing philosophy, advocating for a holistic understanding of human experience. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating heart and mind for meaningful societal change.

47 snips
May 18, 2025 • 1h 22min
#59: Complexity Coding, Residuality Theory & the Hyperliminal: being flexible and rigid at once with architect Barry O'Reilly
Barry O'Reilly, a software architect and pure mathematics expert with experience at Microsoft, explores the intersection of complexity theory and software development. He introduces Residuality Theory, advocating for adaptability in coding to better navigate unpredictable business environments. Barry critiques traditional linear thinking, urging a philosophical approach to better manage uncertainty and enhance software resilience. His insights challenge developers to embrace chaos and evolve their practices, emphasizing the need for flexibility in architectural designs.

6 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 4min
#58: Hill Making & Lessons for Living with WIRED co-founder Kevin Kelly
In this conversation, Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired Magazine and author of '1000 True Fans,' examines how science fiction has influenced technological advancements. He introduces the concept of 'hill making,' emphasizing innovation over mere optimization. Kelly reflects on the humanizing effects of the internet and the vital role travel plays in personal growth. He shares insights from his latest book, advocating for creativity and an optimistic outlook in navigating our complex world, while underscoring the importance of love and community in innovation.

Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 44min
#57: Complexity Fatigue & the Third Entity with philosophers and neuroscientists Beck Todd, Shay Welch and Penijean Gracefire
Send a love messageParticipatory sense-making is a term coined by Hanne De Jaegher & Ezequiel Di Paolo. Both these philosophers will be featured in upcoming episodes.Andrea Hiott hosts Rebecca Todd, Shay Welch, and Penijean Gracefire explore intricate themes of participatory sensemaking, the concept of the 'third entity,' and the impact of trauma and love on interpersonal relationships. The discussion delves into how the body acts as a data-gathering device, how sensory inputs shape our understanding of the world, and the importance of mutual sense-making in a highly complex and often overwhelming environment. Each speaker shares their unique perspectives and experiences, from cognitive neuroscience to ethical interactions, ultimately highlighting the significance of staying connected both with others and oneself. This conversation is intellectually stimulating and emotionally enriching, drawing on neuroscience, philosophy, and mental health to offer fresh insights into navigating the complexities of human interaction.00:00 Introduction to the Body as a Data Gathering Device00:57 The Futility of Communication and Social Media02:35 Welcome to Love and Philosophy02:52 Participatory Sense Making and Social Cognition04:46 Meet the Three: Beck Todd, Shay Welch, and Penijean Gracefire05:46 Rebecca Todd: Cognitive Neuroscience and Life Experience08:13 Penijean Gracefire: Neurotechnology and Human Function12:21 Shay Welch: Philosophy, Public Art, and Participatory Sensemaking15:50 Exploring the Concept of the Body23:09 The Role of EEG in Understanding the Brain52:36 The Impact of Trauma on Sensemaking53:25 Introduction to Anchors and Interactions54:14 Effortful Sense Making Shaped by Love55:16 Individual Differences in Sensory Systems56:24 Neuromodulation and Sense Making59:24 Visualization and Communication Challenges01:03:07 Complexity Fatigue and Bandwidth01:14:11 Neuromodulation Device Experiment01:20:35 Participatory Sense Making with the More-than-Human World01:29:34 Challenges of Virtual Interaction01:36:48 The Futility and Hope of CommunicationL&P NewsletterPSM PaperA Multiplicity of WorldsWhat is Participatory Sense-making and Why Should We Care?Steve Paxton, originator of the practice of contact improvisation, himself says: “The reason it’s called contact improvisation is because there is a third entity that arises in the state – it is the state of agreement between the two of you that neither one is leading. It doesn’t become leaderless, the two of you are leading.” SourceSupport the showPlease rate and review with love. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Substack.

Apr 19, 2025 • 36min
BONUS: A Quick Podcast about Podcast(s) with Andrea & Fotis
Andrea and Fotis dive into the fascinating world of podcasting, discussing its growth and the vibrant communities it fosters. They explore the philosophy behind podcasting and its unique ability to navigate complex ideas. Delving into the concept of Game B, they advocate for transformative societal shifts. The duo emphasizes authenticity in difficult conversations and shares personal motivations that drive their journey. With reflections on interconnectedness and future aspirations, their chat reveals the power of meaningful dialogue in shaping perspectives.

16 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 40min
#56: Radical Incompleteness & Windows of Ritournelle with poet philosopher Bayo Akomolafe
Bayo Akomolafe, a philosopher, psychologist, and poet, discusses the transformative power of love and the complexities of relational dynamics. He highlights the radical incompleteness of love and how it challenges binary categorizations. Reflecting on his personal journey, Bayo shares insights on memory, loss, and care. The conversation also explores the impact of the pandemic on family dynamics and the importance of self-awareness in recognizing disruptive patterns in our lives. Embracing life's messiness, they reveal new possibilities for connection.

19 snips
Mar 30, 2025 • 1h 40min
#55: How Shall we Live? with anthropologist and lineologist Tim Ingold
Tim Ingold, Emeritus Professor of Anthropology at the University of Aberdeen, joins to discuss the intricate weaving of life through 'lines' instead of blocks. They explore the concept of wayfaring as our fundamental experience, emphasizing interconnectedness between nature and culture. Ingold argues for greater awareness and responsibility in our actions and choices. The conversation touches on creativity, personal journeys, and the importance of nurturing love and respect for the world, offering transformative insights into how we engage with life and each other.

Mar 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
#54: Project Love: What We Make & How it Makes Us with service designer Clive Grinyer
Send a love message "If a thing loves, it is infinite" William Blake: 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.Watch the video with powerpoint here.00:00 Introduction: The Power of Design01:17 Welcome to Love and Philosophy01:43 Introducing Clive Grinyer and Project Love06:19 Exploring Love Through Design07:17 Defining Love and Design21:39 Innovative Projects and Concepts28:59 Community and Societal Impact35:47 The Social Impact of Design35:51 Designing for Sustainability and Economic Viability36:01 The Complexity and Perception of Design36:19 The Role of AI in Design36:59 Technology and Human Experience37:19 Design in Everyday Life38:16 The Evolution of Technology Design39:22 Emotional Design and User Experience40:25 Project Love: Designing for Compassion01:02:00 Empathy in Design01:04:39 Future Directions and Community BuildingProject Lovehttps://www.theprojectlove.com/Sign up here for the newsletter and writingsSupport the show here.About Clive:"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."Support the showPlease rate and review with love. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Substack.


