Chasing Leviathan

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Michael Allen discuss his book, 'The Fear of the Lord,' exploring the themes of theological method, resourcement, and the importance of engaging with historical theologians. Dr. Allen emphasizes the need for community in the practice of self-denial and the balance between active and contemplative life. Dr. Allen also addresses misconceptions in theo...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Barry Lam discuss his book 'Fewer Rules, Better People,' exploring the tension between discretion and bureaucracy in modern society. Dr. Lam argues that the increasing reliance on metrics and rules diminishes human judgment and decision-making. Together they cover the evolution of bureaucracies, the role of AI, and the implications of legalism, emph...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Joel Harrington discuss his book, 'The Faithful Executioner,' which explores the life of Frantz Schmidt, an executioner in 16th century Nuremberg. They discuss the complexities of Schmidt's profession, the societal perceptions of executioners, and the historical context of law enforcement and torture. Dr. Harrington emphasizes the importance of unde...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Ema Sullivan-Bissett discuss her book 'Irrationality.' Together they explore the nature of irrationality, its implications in everyday life, and how desires can shape beliefs. Dr. Sullivan-Bissett discusses the complexities of human cognition, the phenomenon of akrasia (weakness of will), and common misconceptions surrounding irrationality. They exp...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Shoumita Dasgupta discuss her book 'Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins,' focusing on the intersection of genetics and bias. Dr. Dasgupta emphasizes the importance of understanding implicit bias, the role of social structures in perpetuating inequities, and the misconceptions surrounding genetics and race. She advocates for a more equitable approach...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Tiffany Beechy discuss her book Aesthetics and the Incarnation in Early Medieval Britain. Together they explore the challenges of interpreting artifacts from this time using classical models, emphasizing the importance of vernacular traditions and the role of heteroglossia and oral traditions. Dr. Beechy reviews the complexities of Christ's incarnat...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Mazviita Chirimuuta discuss her book, The Brain Abstracted, exploring the relationship between neuroscience and philosophy. Dr. Chirimuuta delves into the simplifications inherent in scientific models, the evolution of neurophilosophy, and the implications of AI and deep learning on our understanding of the brain. The discussion also touches on the...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Christopher Yeomans discuss his book, The Politics of German Idealism, focusing on the philosophical underpinnings of Hegel, Fichte, and Kant. Together they explore the estate structure in Hegel's philosophy, the impact of the French Revolution, and the evolution of social classes in Germany during a time of significant transition. Yeomans emphasize...

In this second part of their conversation, PJ and Dr. Thomas Raysmith continue to discuss his book: Hegel and the Problem of the History of Philosophy: The Logical Structure of Exemplarity. Together they explore the methodologies in philosophy, the historical context of Hegel's thought, and the misconceptions surrounding his ideas. Dr. Raysmith emphasizes the importance of understanding Hegel's lo...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Thomas Raysmith discuss his book: Hegel and the Problem of the History of Philosophy: The Logical Structure of Exemplarity. Together they explore the methodologies in philosophy, the historical context of Hegel's thought, and the misconceptions surrounding his ideas. Dr. Raysmith emphasizes the importance of understanding Hegel's logical structure a...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Iain Thomson discuss his book: Heidegger on Technology's Danger and Promise in the Age of AI. Together they explore the essence of technology, its historical implications, and the philosophical underpinnings that shape our understanding of technological advancements. The discussion delves into the relationship between technology, metaphysics, and ed...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Melissa Moschella discuss her book Ethics, Politics, and Natural Law: Principles for Human Flourishing. Together they explore the concept of natural law as a guide for human flourishing, the role of common sense morality, and the integral nature of flourishing that encompasses both individual and community aspects. The discussion also touches on the...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Jennifer Herdt discuss her book 'Forming Humanity' and explore the concept of Bildung within the context of Christian ethics and modernity. The discussion highlights the interplay between human agency and divine influence, particularly in the works of thinkers like Herder. In this conversation, PJ and Dr. Herdt explore the complexities of cultural c...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Joseph Stramondo discuss his work on the ethics of choosing disability, emphasizing the complexity of the topic and the importance of narrative identity. They also explore how societal structures and perceptions shape the experiences of individuals with disabilities, and the implications of these factors on ethical decision-making. The discussion al...

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Viren Murthy discuss Pan-Asianism, exploring its historical roots, ideological implications, and the roles of various Asian nations, particularly China and India. He delves into the geographical, cultural, and ideological aspects of Pan-Asianism, critiques its historical interpretations, and examines the influence of Hegelian philosophy on Pan-Asian...

PJ shares a brief update on the channel and what's next for the show. Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud.  These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasin...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Christian Miller discuss his book on honesty, exploring its neglect in philosophical discourse. Dr. Miller emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of honesty, its metaphysical nature, and the empirical evidence surrounding human behavior. The discussion also touches on the degrees of virtue, the role of perseverance, and the implications of c...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Dagmar Herzog discuss her book 'The Question of Unworthy Life: Eugenics and Germany's Twentieth Century', exploring the historical context of eugenics in Germany, the appeal of eugenics despite its shaky scientific basis, and the importance of memory politics in addressing past atrocities. Herzog emphasizes the need for a shift in language and perce...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Carlos Sánchez discuss his book 'Blooming in the Ruins: How Mexican Philosophy Can Guide Us toward the Good Life.' Sánchez shares his personal journey from studying advertising to philosophy, highlighting the key themes of embodiment, colonialism, and self-knowledge in Mexican thought. He also emphasizes the value of Mexican philosophy in understand...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Adam Walker discuss the purpose behind his YouTube Channel, Close Reading Poetry. They explore the role of community in literature, the importance of oral tradition in poetry, and the various critical lenses used in literary analysis. The conversation highlights the significance of language and sound in poetry, advocating for a more human and emotio...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Deondra Rose discuss her book, 'The Power of Black Excellence: HBCUs and the Fight for American Democracy,' which explores the historical significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in promoting education, political engagement, and civil rights for Black Americans. Dr. Rose emphasizes the unique role of HBCUs in fostering le...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Jeff Bilbro discuss his book 'Words for Conviviality: Media Technologies and Practices of Hope,' which examines how historical media technologies can inform our understanding of contemporary digital media. The discussion delves into the importance of literature in shaping communication, the non-neutrality of technology, and the need for practices th...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Justin Brierley discuss his book 'The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers are Considering Christianity Again.' They discuss the evolution of atheism, the reconsideration of Christianity by secular thinkers, and the importance of community and repentance in modern faith. Brierley explores the challenge of ob...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Sean McGrath discuss his book 'Political Eschatology,' exploring the intersection of eschatological thought and political action. McGrath emphasizes the importance of understanding eschatology not just as a theological concept, but as a framework for political engagement and social justice. The discussion delves into the historical roots of eschatol...

On this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Joshua R. Brown discuss his book 'Aquinas and the Early Chinese Masters,' exploring the intersection of Chinese philosophy and Catholic theology. Brown shares his personal journey from Southern Baptist to Catholic theologian, and his influence by his Malaysian-Chinese wife. Their discussion delves into the philosophical dialogue between Thomism and...