Why (I) Do Philosophy | WSB#21

Who Shaves the Barber?

Content provided by William Nava. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by William Nava or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.

6+ y ago 1:14:59

MP3•Episode home

Archived series ("Inactive feed" status)

When? This feed was archived on March 10, 2020 23:07 (4y ago). Last successful fetch was on October 15, 2019 13:05 (4+ y ago)

Why? Inactive feed status. Our servers were unable to retrieve a valid podcast feed for a sustained period.

What now? You might be able to find a more up-to-date version using the search function. This series will no longer be checked for updates. If you believe this to be in error, please check if the publisher's feed link below is valid and contact support to request the feed be restored or if you have any other concerns about this.

Philosophy's an odd practice. It can be abstract, technical, and complicated to the point of appearing incomprehensible; and the generality of the subject matter can make it seem like it isn't really about anything at all. It certainly doesn't seem to make a great deal of progress over time. So why the hell does anyone do it?

Here I propose three main reasons I think people do philosophy: competitive craftsmanship, scientific inquiry, and spirituality. The first breaks down into two subcategories - craftsmanship and competition - as does the second - curiosity and improving the world. Just how does philosophy satisfy each of these needs? Do people really pursue philosophy in order to satisfy them? And can they actually be satisfied by philosophy? I conclude with some words about how these apply to why I'm pursuing philosophy (eg, doing this podcast), and specifically why I'm not pursuing academic philosophy.

Next week: Michael Zigismund: Philosophy of Law

Visit http://williamnava.com for more info!

Special thanks to Jackie Blum for the podcast art, and The Tin Box for the theme music.

55 episodes

#Society #Philosophy #William Nava