Scientific studies have shown that when times are good, people act bad. Morality becomes an afterthought in times of peace and plenitude, perhaps because bad behavior often pays off when the world is otherwise stable.[…]
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Category: Philosophers
Action Philosophers
I’m behind on posting this week, so here’s a link to one of the most entertaining pop-culture takes on philosophy, Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunlavey’s “Action Philosophers.” If you’ve never encountered it, be sure[…]
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Democracy Loves Tyranny
More than one recent commentator has noted presidential candidate Donald Trump’s similarities, both stylistic and substantive, to dictators of the past and present. It’s no surprise when Russia embraces a old-school strongman like Putin, but[…]
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“Hotel California” – Philosophical Music: Rock
In memory of Glenn Frey, please enjoy this repost of an examination of one of his most beloved songs Many mysteries surround the Eagles’ popular classic tune Hotel California, from the warm smell of colitas[…]
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Philosophers Epic Rap Battle
It’s a visit to the lighter side of philosophy in popular culture this week with a look at the recent “Epic Rap Battle” production “Eastern Philosophers versus Western Philosophers.” The popular YouTube franchise ERB built[…]
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Socrates Talk Show – Justin Beaver
Please enjoy this repost of my modernization of Plato’s classic dialog “The Ion.” Please note, all dialogue is directly based on the original. “Ladies and Gentlemen,” proclaimed an unseen voice. “Welcome to the Socrates Talk[…]
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8 Bit Kierkegaard
Some of you may have enjoyed my recent repost of my popular essay “Kierkegaard’s Narrative“, about the influence of Christian existentialist Søren Kierkegaard on several popular books and movies (notably including High Fidelity). For a[…]
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Panis et Circensus and Nietzsche – Philosophical Music
What does it mean when I draw a connection between one of my most favorite songs and one of my least favorite philosophers? Have I misjudged the philosopher, or the song? I’ve been obsessed with[…]
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“Reality Used to Be a Friend of Mine”: Philosophical Hip Hop
The trippy alternative hip-hop duo PM Dawn is a footnote in musical history, but for a brief time in the 90’s they were on top of the charts with their blend of new age dream[…]
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“Pursuit of Happiness”: Philosophical Music – Hip Hop
The most striking thing about Kid Cudi’s 2009 song and video, Pursuit of Happiness, is the stark contrast between its superficial pleasures and deep miseries. The video presents much as many other hip-hop videos of[…]
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