Philosophy for the People
Patrick Flynn
Philosophy for the People's mission is an educational program aimed at overcoming the paucity of serious, fair-minded, and accessible philosophical discourse available to a popular audience. Though we are ourselves dedicated to the Catholic intellectual tradition, we are likewise committed to exploring ideas from all rigorous traditions of philosophizing (scholastic, classical, analytic, and phenomenological). We pursue this mission by providing long-form guided readings of great texts, discussions with expert guests, our own open-ended philosophical discussions of issues and thinkers, live question and answer opportunities, in depth lecture courses, and our own articles and book-length writings. Philosophy for the People's pedagogical materials will be provided either without charge or for minimal cost to assure provision of broad access to first-rate philosophical education.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Nov 28, 2023 • 48min
A Brief History of the Problem of Evil w/ Dr. Jim Madden
Dr. Jim Madden discusses the problem of evil and its historical evolution. The podcast covers topics such as the connection between technology and nihilism, animal suffering, co-authoring academic papers, different arguments against the problem of evil, and the concept of skeptical theism. The speakers reflect on personal experiences with pets and express excitement about contributing to the ongoing conversation on this philosophical challenge.
Nov 24, 2023 • 47min
The Value of Knowing: Myth or Reality? The Epistemic Value Question w/ Dr. Jonathan Fuqua
Most of us strongly assume that knowing is valuable. Moreover, that it is valuable to come to truth truth apart from instances of luck. Why? Can we give a good philosophical accounts of this? Dr. Fuqua argues we can, in his recent article "Proper Functionalism, Perfectionism, and the Epistemic Value Problem." That is what we discuss today! More Resources: Pat's philosophy Substack: https://chroniclesofstrength.substack.com/ Pat's book The Best Argument for God: https://amzn.to/3QRBHDP
9 snips
Nov 20, 2023 • 21min
Read Philosophy Like a Pro: Simple Techniques for Deep Understanding
Dive into the world of philosophy with strategies to read and absorb complex texts like a pro. Discover the power of the right mindset and active reading techniques that make engaging with dense material more accessible. Uncover the value of community discussions and reflective thinking to enhance your understanding. Whether you're a novice or looking to deepen your knowledge, these tips will empower you to tackle philosophical ideas with confidence.
Nov 16, 2023 • 6min
The Power of Why: What Philosophy Is and Why Do It
Welcome to Philosophy for the People, where deep thinking meets practical insight. In this episode, we delve into the fundamental nature of philosophy and its significance in our daily lives. Our discussions aim to illuminate how philosophical thinking shapes our understanding of the world. If you find value in our content, please support us by liking this video and subscribing to our channel. We encourage you to join the conversation by commenting below: What got YOU interested in philosophy? For more philosophy action, head to Pat's Substack: https://chroniclesofstrength.substack.com/ Also, check out Pat's new book The Best Argument for God: https://amzn.to/3QFrHxt
Nov 9, 2023 • 7min
Unlocking Reality: Aristotle's 4 Causes Explained!
Delve into Aristotle's Four Causes, a captivating framework that reveals the essence of existence. Discover how the material, formal, efficient, and final causes illuminate our understanding of why things happen the way they do. Explore the timeless impact of Aristotle’s thought on philosophy and humanity's quest for purpose. Engage in a fascinating conversation about reality and the nature of being that will leave you pondering for days!
Nov 6, 2023 • 58min
Mind Meets World: A Thomistic-Kantian Approach to Understanding Reality w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr
Dr. Gaven Kerr returns to Philosophy for the People to discuss the (surprising) harmonies between Thomism and Kantianism concerning theories of knowledge and mind-world relations. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe! PS - Check out Pat's new book The Best Argument for God at: https://amzn.to/47lhEnX
Nov 2, 2023 • 7min
The Essence of Being: Philosophical Inquiries into Existence
In today's episode, we examine the two-sense theory of existence, and confront one of the paradoxes purported to afflict the commonsense view of existence, where existence is taken to be attribute of individuals. Comment below with your thoughts, questions, or the next philosophical enigma you want us to unravel. Don't forget to hit like, subscribe, and ring the bell to join our community of thinkers and stay updated with our weekly explorations into philosophy. Your support helps us bring philosophy to the people and makes our content more discoverable for others seeking answers to life's big questions. PS - Check out Pat's new book The Best Argument for God: https://amzn.to/46WtK79
Oct 20, 2023 • 35min
Can We Rule Out Immortality?
A podcast explores William James' essay on human immortality and his contributions to psychology. They discuss philosophy of mind and consciousness, including alternative metaphysics and the relationship between the brain and consciousness. They explore an alternative model for the hard problem of consciousness and delve into objections to immortality. The episode also explores the connection between beauty, truth, hope, and philosophy. The hosts discuss recent book releases, upcoming projects, and give writing advice.
4 snips
Oct 17, 2023 • 1h 15min
The One Has the Many: A Synthesis of Aquinas, Scotus, and Palamas w/ Dr. Spencer and Fr. Kirby
Pat is joined by Dr. Mark Spencer and Fr. Matthew Kirby to discuss their recent paper The One Has the Many: A Further Synthesis of Aquinas, Scotus, and Palamas. Link to paper: https://www.academia.edu/108261668/_The_One_has_the_Many_A_Further_Synthesis_of_Aquinas_Scotus_and_Palamas_Co_Written_with_Fr_Matthew_Kirby_International_Philosophical_Quarterly_62_2_June_2022_161_187 Link to Dr. Spencer's academia page: https://stthomas.academia.edu/MarkSpencer Link to Dr. Spencer's book The Irreducibility of the Human Person: https://www.amazon.com/Irreducibility-Human-Person-Catholic-Synthesis/dp/0813235200 Please like, share, comment, and subscribe!
Oct 16, 2023 • 32min
The Perennial Importance of Thomistic Philosophy
Pat is joined by Fr. Irenaeus for an introductory conversation on Thomistic philosophy and its modern day relevance. Check out Aquinas 101 at https://aquinas101.thomisticinstitute... Support Philosophy for the people by, 1) Liking, sharing, and commenting on this video and, 2) Snagging a copying of Pat's new book The Best Argument for God at https://www.amazon.com/Best-Argument-God-Patrick-Flynn/dp/1644137801/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1E6PXZ6FPMCEJ&keywords=the+best+argument+for+God&qid=1697456782&sprefix=the+best+argument+for+god%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1
