TrueSciPhi

Podcast Profile: What Is X?

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25 episodes
2021 to 2022
Median: 62 minutes
Collection: Philosophy

Description (podcaster-provided):

Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):

This podcast, titled "What Is X?," is a unique blend of philosophical inquiry and lively conversation, drawing on the tradition of Socratic dialogue while infusing it with a playful spirit. Hosted by Justin E. H. Smith and presented by The Point Magazine, each episode invites a guest—often an academic or a professional expert—and sometimes a well-informed layperson, to explore profound questions structured as "What is X?" This open-ended format covers a wide range of concepts, from abstract and philosophical topics such as being, time, and consciousness, to more concrete and culturally resonant subjects like money, gender, and mental health.

The dialogue aims to uncover definitions or insights that satisfy both the host and the guest, with possible outcomes of agreement, disagreement, or aporia—meaning a stalemate or philosophical perplexity. Sound effects like a church bell, a bleating goat, or a gust of wind mark these outcomes, adding a whimsical touch. While episodes touch on age-old philosophical concerns—such as the nature of reality, existence, and virtue—they also engage with contemporary issues and cultural phenomena, including punk music, conspiracy theories, and slurs, thus offering reflections that are both timely and timeless.

In essence, the podcast models rigorous but freewheeling inquiry, weaving together high-minded philosophical exploration with accessible and often entertaining dialogues. It seeks to encourage listeners to think deeply about what might seem like familiar concepts while also posing new questions that stimulate further reflection. Through this format, listeners are drawn into philosophical discussions, fostering an environment where truth-seeking is paramount, even if definitive answers remain elusive.