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A Million Little Gods: A podcast on the consolation of uncertainty. It's about being of two—or more—minds about things and being okay with that. Hosted by Aaron Gowen of the Institute for English and American Studies at the University of Hamburg. amillionlittlegods.comThemes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Philosophy and culture studies • Linguistics and language • Race and identity • Historical and social commentary • Interviews with experts • Podcasting as art • Reflections on science and religion"A Million Little Gods" is a podcast that delves into philosophical and cultural questions through a blend of academic discussion and creative storytelling. Hosted by Aaron Gowen, a lecturer at the University of Hamburg, the show addresses themes such as self-identity, race, and the philosophical underpinnings of society. The episodes often involve in-depth explorations of historical and contemporary philosophical discourse, examining figures like Immanuel Kant and theories such as Thomism and Marxism.
The podcast is divided into seasons referred to as "Books," each focusing on a central theme. Early seasons consider what it means to be a self, exploring topics related to consciousness, identity, and narrative. Subsequent seasons shift focus to race and its conceptual challenges, incorporating perspectives from linguistics, philosophy, and genetics. Discussions often feature expert guests, including philosophers, scientists, and historians, who provide a multifaceted approach to complex issues.
In addition to these thematic inquiries, the series occasionally explores contemporary topics such as the influence of American political and cultural history on other nations. It also tackles critical discussions around scientific practices and societal constructs, questioning how language and categorization influence human understanding and coexistence.
The podcast is characterized by its intellectual ambition and experimental format, combining interviews, essays, and audio plays. Gowen's approach integrates his expertise in linguistics and applied linguistics to offer insights into philosophical and cultural phenomena, inviting listeners to navigate uncertainty with an open mind. Throughout its episodes, "A Million Little Gods" interrogates the human condition by wrestling with both enduring and emergent philosophical questions.
