In the United States, July is when we celebrate the birth of American citizenship—specifically, the thirteen original colonies freeing themselves from British imperial rule to become independent democratic states. So this month, let's take a deep dive to explore the past and future prospects of freedom, democracy, and our system of government.
What are the best economic policies for advancing human welfare? Should markets be regulated by the state? Or should we trust that individuals’ self-interest will lead to the best outcomes? How ought wealth and power be distributed, both nationally and internationally? These are some of the questions we tackle in this series generously sponsored by an anonymous donor.
If ever there was a timeless philosophical question, "What is the ultimate nature of the universe?" must count as one of the most fascinating. In this eight-episode series, sponsored by a generous grant from the John Templeton Foundation, we invite listeners on a grand philosophical journey through the cosmos, tackling deeply puzzling questions about the nature of the universe, and our knowledge of it.
In 2013, Philosophy Talk collaborated with the Stanford Continuing Studies program to create The Art of Living, a very special series of classes and radio tapings: All of us must make fundamental life choices and decide what is most valuable to us. We may opt for a life of reason and knowledge; one of faith and discipline; one of nature and freedom; one of community and altruism; or one of originality and style. We may even choose to live our lives as though they were works of art.