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Hosted by Jeffrey Howard, editor-in-chief of Erraticus, Damn the Absolute! is a show about our relationship to ideas.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Philosophy • Pragmatism • Democracy • Social Issues • Cultural Criticism • Ethics • Political Thought • Inquiry • American History • PluralismThis podcast, "Damn the Absolute!" is hosted by Jeffrey Howard, who explores the intricate relationship between ideas and human experience. Focusing predominantly on philosophical, political, and cultural themes, the episodes delve into how these ideas interact with societal structures and individual lives. The podcast showcases discussions with diverse thinkers, often drawing on the philosophies of pragmatism, postmodernism, metamodernism, and phenomenology.
Key thematic threads include the dynamics of democracy, philosophical inquiries into truth and reality, and the social impacts of ideologies. Episodes frequently explore complex philosophical ideas, such as the rejection of absolute certainty in postmodernism, the pragmatic approach to moral living, and the philosophical underpinnings of scientific and social knowledge. Discussions extend into current social issues like race, climate change, and inequalities, often framing them in terms of philosophical discourse.
The podcast also examines the role of culture, literature, and education in shaping democratic societies, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, dialogue, and humility. Furthermore, it addresses how intellectual movements such as the pragmatism of Richard Rorty and others can inform modern social and political challenges.
The content is characterized by its commitment to continuing inquiry, reflective of Jeffrey Howard's dedication to avoiding absolute conclusions and instead promoting nuanced exploration. This podcast engages with how philosophical principles can offer insight into contemporary socio-political issues and encourages listeners to critically examine their own beliefs and the world around them.