Brain in a Vat

Should we ban offensive speech? Should we tolerate racism and transphobia? Should everything that is immoral also be illegal?

Is murder wrong? Can evolution fully explain why we think certain actions are immoral? And can we believe moral truths with even greater certainty than truths about the physical world? Spencer Case offers objections to Shaun Stanley, a moral anti-realist who appeared previously on our show.

What if you navigated the world through echo location instead of sight? What if cats could gain all of the traits of humans? What if you were a brain in a vat trying to solve a difficult moral problem.   To learn more about Peg's work check out: https://www.pegtittle.com https://www.jassrichards.com     Special offer to podcast listeners:  For any title with an on-site purchase option, Peg is happy to send a complimentary copy (epub or pdf).  No strings attached.  Please make your requests via the site contact form.   Contact us: Mark.Oppenheimer[at]gmail and Jwerbe[at]gmail

What makes your life go well? Can you be wrong about whether you are happy? And can happiness be bad for you?

Is sex only a matter of biology? Are there conflicts between trans rights, women's rights, and gay rights? Is it possible to change genders?   Buy Kathleen's Book: Material Girls https://www.amazon.com/Material-Girls-Reality-Matters-Feminism-ebook/dp/B08LK8TY5S

What transforms a collection of individuals into a social group? Jason Werbeloff argues the answer is: nothing. There are no social groups. No countries, political parties, marriages, or sports clubs. There are only individuals.

What can a runaway train, a patient wrapped head to toe in bandages, and man condemned by the gods to roll a rock for eternity teach us about leading a good life? If you enjoy stories that tickle your brain, this episode is for you.

Are thought experiments useful for telling us about the nature of reality? What are the limitations of thought experiments, and should we trust them in discussions of morality and science?

Should we care whether we cause others suffering? Do we have duties or obligations to others? Shaun Stanley thinks there are no moral reasons for action. Do you think morality is real?

Many believe Woke ideology to be a source of positive change in society. Helen Zille thinks otherwise. Could Wokeness be dangerous?  You can find Helen's book, #StayWoke: Go Broke, on Amazon and Takealot. Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/StayWoke-Africa-survive-Americas-culture-ebook/dp/B091BB1X23/ Takealot: https://www.takealot.com/staywoke-go-broke/PLID72165371