Emma•ism

In this episode, the aim of science is discussed. Boyd’s Scientific Realism as the best explanation for the instrumental reliability of the scientific method is discussed. It is argued that it is indeed the best explanation for the instrumental reliability of science if there are two aims of theory: epistemological and metaphysical.

In this episode, Goodman’s New Riddle of Induction is discussed as well as Boydian Natural Kind Theory. This podcast is inspired by Dr. Quayshawn Spencer and his Philosophy of Science class at the University of Pennsylvania. This podcast talks through whether Boyd’s Natural Kind Theory solves Goodman’s New Riddle of Induction. Moreover, it defends one way in which scientists can objectively defend...

In this episode, Taylor Swift’s newest re-release is discussed. First, the philosophical implication of her deciding to re-record is analyzed. She is on a venture to re-gain her agency and fruits of her labor. Secondly, specific lyrics of “All Too Well” and “Red” are philosophically analyzed. Notions of time, memory, and love are brought to the conversation.

In this episode, FOMO is discussed. The most pure source of happiness is considered (when it is not dependent on outsourcing to others). How does an individual conquer FOMO? Well, the individual should do philosophy as a way of life.

In this episode, Stoicism is discussed. Its compatibility with various experiences of human existence is evaluated. St. Augustine and his Confessions are discussed in light of Stoicism.

In this episode, capitalism and socialism are discussed and compared in regards their foundations and how they relate to principles fairness and equality. John Rawls’ justifications for the welfare state and for inequalities are analyzed. The contention that the justifications for inequality support Capitalist states better than Socialist states is held.

In this episode, social contract theory is discussed. Rationality is evaluated with a moral light. Why do should we hypothetically consent to the social contract? What is so bad about the state of nature that we must cooperate? The choice of whether to cooperate or not has to do with maximization —either straight-forward or constrained. Those are two competing views on rationality as well.

In this episode, general philosophy of mathematics and computer science is discussed. Interviewee, fellow Penn sophomore Thomas Rainow, has thought-provoking responses to classical philosophy questions. Is there inherent chaos or order in nature? How do people come to believe truths in absence of empirical evidence? Listen to hear the discussion on these matters.

In this episode, love is discussed. The distinction between subconscious and conscious love is made (weight of love vs. feeling of love). The contention is held that both types of love enhance our existence. Additionally, they provide a perspective of connection, hope, journey to telos, and a narrative of choice in this existence.

In this episode, friendship is discussed. What makes a friend? Why do we bond with some individuals and not others? If we all connect on a level that is outside the realm of what is material, then how do we make friends? If the immaterial piece of ourselves that forms connections is linked to the ultimate divine source, why do our preferences in friends differ? The argument that this discriminatio...

In this episode, generalizations are discussed. The impact of manipulating a particular to stand as a universal is analyzed. The conviction is held that for something to be true, it must be true in each and every instance.

In this episode, Aquinas’ four types of law are further discussed —this time, paired with the concept of idea camps. The way in which idea camps relate to the intersection of eternal law and human law is analyzed.

In this episode, Aquinas’ Treatise on Law is discussed. The question of how laws play into society and why people choose to follow them are introduced. Also, there is a brief analysis of justice and peoples’ objective standards of it in regards to Aquinas’ Treatise.

In this episode, the philosophy of comedy is discussed. This is an interview with Heidi Søndergaard Jensen. The question of what philosophy has to do with comedy is answered as well as if philosophers make good comedians. Warning: lots of laughs!

In this episode, the timeless human experience of suffering is discussed. Sophocles’ Philoctetes is analyzed with this lens. Suffering may seem like the ultimate present moment to sufferers, but there is always the possibility to heal and persevere.

In this episode, two minds are evaluated: that of Ancient Greece, and that of modern thinkers. The question, “is the best yet to come, or are we a regression from perfect excellence?” is analyzed. The worldviews are put to the test with natural tendencies of nature, societies, and religions.

In this episode, fear is discussed. Why do we feel it? Does it help or hinder the progression of the society? of the individual? How does fear change the human experience? And, can we ever possibly achieve fearlessness? would that be beneficial?

In this episode, mercy and justice are discussed. It is held that mercy and justice are co-rulers of the society progressing toward peace. Which do you think is more important, mercy or justice?

In this episode, the human invention of time is discussed. The contention that a being’s perception of time dictates what that being does with their time is held. Lots of humans wear watches and don’t perceive time as a participation in relationship with the divine. As a result, there is a tension: how are you able to grasp the whole (of ‘present’) when the whole is always in transit?

In this episode, repost culture and the lack of moral agency is discussed. It’s a part two to the season 1 episode, “Reposting Replacing Free Thinking.” We must restore the agora and return to thoughtfulness!

In this meditation episode, the ocean as an icon and pointer to God is discussed. This is a short reflection on the created world, icons, and the divine.

In this episode, Tolstoy’s “The Death of Ivan Ilyich” is analyzed. The question of how to live and love in the face of death is discussed as well. In this text, there’s the timeless theme of the choice between orientation to the temporal versus the eternal.

In this episode, the Prodigal Son and St. Augustine are analyzed and compared. The question: “is Augustine, as the prodigal son, the archetype of the human condition?” is discussed.

In this episode, the question of whether the unfettered pursuit of truth is the only way we can be free, or if freedom itself is the only way we can pursue truth with no burden. Emma interviews Terrence Nolan, a fellow Villanova freshman on the matter. No consensus is reached, but community input is appreciated!

In this episode, Easter is discussed. The human narrative of rising and falling is applied with a Biblical and literary lens (with the Passion of Christ, and St. Augustine’s life). If you’ve ever asked why you enjoy ice cream in the summer or why we sympathize with underdogs, you might like this podcast!