A philosophy, politics, and economics podcast brought to you by the PPE and Philosophy department at UNC Chapel Hill.
In this very special episode, Marcella and Samad reflect on beloved Parr Heel, Colby Maynor, who passed away in December of 2023. We want to take some time to remember Colby as the amazing philosopher he was and discuss some of his work regarding medical ethics and the ethics of claiming lost items. We also want to extend a huge thank you to the Maynor family for allowing us to make this episode. Colby is so loved in the Parr Center and we are lucky to be able to interact with his work and share it with our listeners. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring Chapel Phil. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode.
Are beauty standards ethical? Who decides what is beautiful? Can someone actually make the autonomous decision to undergo plastic surgery? Tune in to this episode to hear Marcella and Samad explore the ethics of cosmetic surgery. Sources: The Ethics of Cosmetic Surgery in Relation to Autonomy. https://www.bioethicsproject.org/the-ethics-of-cosmetic-surgery-in-relation-to-autonomy/ Cosmetic vs. Plastic Surgery: What's the Difference? https://www.muhealth.org/our-stories/cosmetic-vs-plastic-surgery-whats-difference/ The Origin of Plastic Surgery: Where Does the Term Come From? https://plasticsurgeryofboston.com/the-origin-of-plastic-surgery/ 2022 ASPS Procedural Statistics Release, American Society of Plastic Surgeons All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode.
Content Warning- this episode discusses gun violence and death. After the loss of Zijie Yan in August of 2023, UNC students are still calling on local and state legislature for gun control policies. Aditi and Aidan reflect on what that day felt like for them, how UNC has responded to students who feel their needs were unmet, and the link between a Republican state majority and little to no legislative change regarding gun control. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode. Sources: https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/04/26/what-the-data-says-about-gun-deaths-in-the-u-s/ https://www.bradyunited.org/key-statistics https://abcnews.go.com/US/mass-shootings-days-2023-database-shows/story?id=96609874
Tune in to this episode to hear Marcella's thoughts as she dives into the psychology and science behind twin births. Multiple births are on the rise along with major advancements in birth control like IVF, so let's examine the twin experience through the lens of nature versus nurture. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode. Sources: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/mar/12/world-peak-twin-global-twinning-birth-rates-reach-historic-high-study-ivf-fertility-services https://academic.oup.com/milmed/article/161/4/233/4843318?login=true https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/20/well/family/what-twins-can-teach-us-about-nature-vs-nurture.html#:~:text=The%20studies%20of%20reared%2Dapart,percent%20influenced%20by%20the%20environment. http://drbarbaraklein.squarespace.com/a-twins-sense-of-self/#:~:text=Unlike%20single%2Dborn%20infants%20and,an%20identity%20as%20an%20individual. https://stenzelclinical.com/twins/
Did you use ChatGPT this semester...? How do these language models even work? Is there a way we can ethically use ChatGPT in higher education? What does acceptable use look like from an ethical standpoint? Are robots going to take over the world??? Tune in to hear Jakob and Samad's thoughts on what the future of AI in the classroom should look like. All music used in this podcast was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions discussed in this podcast.
Tune in to this episode to hear Aidan, Marcella and Samad discuss free speech in today's democracy. How do we balance pillars of democracy like free speech in a digital world? How does democracy work for the people? How do we manage the marketplace of ideas today? Why are people banned on Twitter? Most importantly, should Aidan just become dictator? All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sounds. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring Chapel Phil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore freely. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode. Sources: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/freedom_of_speech https://ar.usembassy.gov/education-culture/irc/u-s-government/#:~:text=While%20often%20categorized%20as%20a,law%20of%20the%20United%20States. https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements/2022/04/human-rights-and-democracy-digital-age https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/26/magazine/free-speech-tech.html https://www.kcl.ac.uk/the-fine-line-between-fake-news-and-freedom-of-speech https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/educational-resources/about-educational-outreach/activity-resources/what-does https://markmanson.net/the-paradox-of-tolerance https://www.americanbar.org/groups/crsj/publications/human_rights_magazine_home/the-ongoing-challenge-to-define-free-speech/the-ongoing-challenge-to-define-free-speech/ https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781003172246-31/free-speech-education-sigal-ben-porath-dustin-webster
Tune in to this episode to hear Aidan and Samad discuss the ins and outs of how the NCAA Tournament works, how parity plays into championships, seeding, ranking teams, and some unique commentary by Aidan. Is this the start of another series in the ChapelPhil universe? Maybe... All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. All sound effects used in this episode were obtained through Pixabay: Sound Effect from Pixabay Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring Chapel Phil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore and discuss freely. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this episode. Sources: https://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/luther-gulick/ https://www.northpennymca.org/did-you-know-basketball-was-invented-at-the-ymca/https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountain_West_Conference
MoraliTV presents its pilot episode where host Sofia Casini discusses the ethics of cheating and revenge to get to the bottom of the Ross versus Rachel cheating debate. Audio credits: Sofia Casini Music by Slip.stream - "Daytime" - https://slip.stream/tracks/c16ae817-36d4-4bde-9da6-5062aaa852d0 https://sound-effects.bbcrewind.co.uk/ https://freesound.org/people/copyc4t/sounds/146434/ https://freesound.org/people/kirbydx/sounds/175409/ Research not mentioned verbally: https://www.scu.edu/ethics/ethics-resources/ethical-decision-making/lying/#:~:text=The%20philosopher%20Immanuel%20Kant%20said,that%20he%20called%20human%20dignity. https://ndpr.nd.edu/reviews/eye-for-an-eye/ https://www.jewishmadison.org/jewish-madison-community-covid-19-resources/from-our-rabbis/judging-others-favorably#:~:text=By%20Rabbi%20Yona%20Matusof&text=Chapter%201%3A6%2C%20%22Judge,them%20guilty%20in%20your%20heart. https://themuslimvibe.com/faith-islam/on-judging-the-actions-of-others https://sandpointreader.com/the-buddha-on-judgement-and-acceptance/#:~:text=The%20Buddha%20rebuked%20Migsala%20saying,most%20in%20need%20of%20repentance. https://hinduism.stackexchange.com/questions/33045/is-judging-a-person-blindly-a-sin
In this episode, Aidan, Marcella and Samad discuss the rich history of the vegan diet and how a worldwide dietary phenomenon has been falsely dubbed as something for only "rich, white folks." Tune in to this episode to hear our thoughts on ways we can decolonize veganism and allow for other vegan voices to be heard. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring Chapel Phil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore and discuss freely. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this podcast. Sources: https://www.peacefuldumpling.com/myth-of-white-veganism https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/vegan-race-wars-white-veganism https://www.theindigenousfoundation.org/articles/white-veganism-and-its-impact-on-indigenous-communities https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/west-coast/marine-mammal-protection/makah-tribal-whale-hunt
In this episode, Aditi, Ashley and Jakob argue if gossip is inherently good or inherently bad. Do intentions matter more than the outcome of a situation? When is it acceptable? Is gossip just a part of the innate human need to exchange information and communicate? And what is the history behind the stereotype of someone who is "a gossip?" Tune in to this episode to hear our thoughts. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore and discuss freely. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse any opinions discussed in this podcast. Sources: https://aeon.co/ideas/gossip-was-a-powerful-tool-for-the-powerless-in-ancient-greece https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/gossip https://www.dictionary.com/browse/gossip https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gossip https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/03/technology/whistle-blower-facebook-frances-haugen.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
In this episode, two new podcasters, Aidan and Marcella, join Samad to discuss the age-old question of whether or not it is ethical to have children. From anti-natalism to Thomas Hobbes, tune in to hear our thoughts on the implications of having children. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions discussed in this podcast.
Welcome to the first episode of 2023 this year, we have some new voices on the podcast! In this episode, Aditi, Ashley, Jakob, and Sofia discuss medical and philosophical conceptions of disability and how accommodations should be made, specifically, on our campus. Where does that responsibility of making accommodations lie? How do we facilitate productive and sensitive conversations about disability? Tune in to this episode to hear our thoughts. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for Ethics for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions discussed in this podcast.
In this episode, Annette, Andy, Max, and Samad take on the heavy conversation of how the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Board of Trustees runs. Where do we draw the line between education and politics? Tune into this episode to hear our thoughts. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions discussed in this podcast.
In this episode, Brennan, Elise and Ashley talk about attendance policies and if/how they should be factored into grading. What does ethical, holistic grading look like? What really counts as participation, is it just speaking to get your points in or offering some unbelievable piece of information no one has ever thought of before? What about students with anxiety around speaking and shouldn't the classroom be a space for everyone? Tune into our first summer episode to hear our thoughts! All music used in this podcast was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this episode are our own. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions discussed in this podcast.
Who can really be held accountable for the faults of an A.I. weapon? Is it a good idea to be incorporating dangerous weapons such as drones, lethal autonomous weapons, and other forms of A.I. into war? In this episode, Andy, Annette, Samad, and Max are back to talk about some of the benefits and drastic consequences of including A.I. technology in modern warfare. With Russia employing the use of dangerous weapons against Ukraine, this conversation seems to be echoing around the world right now. All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own to explore. The Parr Center for Ethics does endorse any opinions stated in this podcast.
Trigger warning: this episode contains discussions on mental health, suicide, generational trauma, and racial violence. What does ethical mental health care look like among the UNC student body? How do long waitlists to see a therapist, pricey appointments, and a lack of involvement from the university harm UNC students? In this episode, Ashley, Brennan, Elise, and Lorelai discuss the mental health crisis on UNC's campus and what the university can and should change in order to become a space truly dedicated to those within the community. THANK YOU to Hayden Park for speaking with Lorelai and sharing their experiences with mental health and CAPS. All music used in this podcast was obtained through Epidemic Sound. Thank you to the Parr Center for sponsoring ChapelPhil. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions stated in this podcast.
Limited testing, no vaccine mandate, no quarantine housing, echo chambers, and a soon-to-be lifted mask mandate. What does this mean for UNC? Tune in to our second episode of the Spring semester to hear Max and Annette duke it out over Individualist and Collectivist approaches to handling a virus like COVID-19. In this episode, Samad and Andy challenge the lenses of collectivism and individualism regarding public health in the UNC community. After a rough start to the Fall 2022 semester with high numbers of positive cases, the university is taking a much more hands-off approach to managing the health of its faculty, staff, and students. What do you all think? All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are explored on our own. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions stated in this podcast.
In our first episode of the 2021-2022 school year, Andy, Samad, and Max discuss the ethics behind keeping academia locked behind paywalls. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a number of financial issues for the university, but why are our JSTOR subscriptions are the first to go ? Tools that are vital to the education of students, support of staff with research in the works, and just general fairness of access of academia to the public seems like a right, not a privilege. Don't we students, paying to attend a top research university, have the right to access the very works conducted by our university? Or, can we see beyond the present struggles and see this may be a necessary evil to ensure the fiscal stability and long-term health of the UNC system? Resources: The Daily Tar Heel report on the cuts: https://www.dailytarheel.com/article/2021/10/opinion-library-budget-cuts Utilitarianism and the long-run fiscal stability: Gary Woller (BYU Professor). “An Overview by Gary Woller.” A Forum on the Role of Environmental Ethics. June 1997. pp. 10 Collections FAQ: https://library.unc.edu/collections/faq-about-collections-reductions/ Budget cuts op-ed: https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2405890223744/op-ed-library-budget-cuts-are-unacceptable-and-unnecessary Consequences are being felt already: https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2012/01/10/how-budget-cuts-are-affecting-unc-health-sciences-library/ WUNC reports on the cuts: https://www.wunc.org/education/2021-10-06/unc-chapel-hill-plans-cut-5-million-libraries-funding-priorities All music used in this episode was obtained through Epidemic Sound. All views and opinions discussed in this podcast are our own. The Parr Center for Ethics does not endorse the opinions stated in this podcast.
In this episode of What Should You Do?, Brennan takes us through Groundhog Day, where every day repeats itself! Without long-term consequences, is theft still immoral? How about harming others? Listen in to hear what Philosophers think, and Brennan's quick witted responses. Special thanks to the UNC Philosophy department for many great responses! Resources: All music featured in this episode is the property of Epidemic Sound For more on Camus and Absurdism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hJZEq61KeM&vl=en
More justices doesn't mean more justice. In this episode of Chapel Phil, Max Hazerjian tours the history of the US Supreme Court to examine when and how it can be expanded. After historical framing, Max argues that many other methods of court reform could be superior political and constitutional alternatives -- listen to find out why! Citations: All music in this episode is the property of Epidemic Sound. Berman, Russell. “Republicans Abandon the Filibuster to Save Neil Gorsuch.” The Atlantic, April 6, 2017. https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/04/republicans-nuke-the-filibuster-tosave-neil-gorsuch/522156/. Buchanan, Mary Jo. “The Need for Supreme Court Term Limits.” Center for American Progress (blog), August 3, 2020. https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/courts/reports/2020/08/03/488518/need-supreme-courtterm-limits/. Burns, James MacGregor. Packing the Court: The Rise of Judicial Power and the Coming Crisis of the Supreme Court. New York City, New York: The Penguin Press, 2009. Elving, Ron. “What Happened With Merrick Garland in 2016 and Why It Matters Now.” National Public Radio. June 29, 2018. https://www.npr.org/2018/06/29/624467256/what-happened-withmerrick-garland-in-2016-and-why-it-matters-now. Emery Jr., C. Eugene. “In Context: The ‘Biden Rule’ on Supreme Court Nominations in an Election Year.” PolitiFact. March 17, 2016. https://www.politifact.com/article/2016/mar/17/contextbiden-rule-supreme-court-nominations/. Hemel, Daniel. “Court-Packing Is a Dreadful Option. Biden Shouldn’t Rule It out.” Washington Post, October 12, 2020. http://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2020/10/12/court-packing-bidenthreat-supreme/. Hodge, Maria L. Review of The Feasibility of “Rotating” Supreme Court Justices, by Tim Zubizarreta. JURIST, July 1, 2019. https://www.jurist.org/commentary/2019/07/maria-hodgerotating-justices/. Sprunt, Barbara. “Biden Campaign Continues to Deflect on Court-Packing.” National Public Radio. October 11, 2020. https://www.npr.org/2020/10/11/922806310/biden-campaign-continues-todeflect-on-court-packing. Stephenson, Jr., D. Grier, ed. An Essential Safeguard: Essays on the United States Supreme Court and Its Justices. Contributions in Legal Studies 63. Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Press, 1991. Ballotpedia. “United States Court Reorganization Legislation,” n.d. https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_court_reorganization_legislation#:~:text=The%20Eighth% 20and%20Ninth%20Circuits,new%20states%20to%20the%20Union.&text=This%20Act%20als o%20rearranged%20the,to%20support%20the%20circuit%20court.
How we move through the world depends upon how our identity interacts with the spaces around us. This episode features the multi-talented Clay Morris, who is an activist, journalist, and podcaster, among other things. Listen along as Clay guides us through how he navigates spaces that aren't always designed for him. The discussion covers spaces at UNC, spaces in general, and what the work to make spaces more inclusive looks like. To hear/read more from Clay, check out the resources below, or look up SegreGAYtion or Coulture'd wherever you get your podcasts! Resources/Citations: claybmorris.com https://www.dailytarheel.com/staff/clay-morris http://coulture.org/author/claymorris/ All music in this episode is the property of Epidemic Sound.
What Should You Do?: Fake News brings back Brennan to talk about how we might interact with someone who promotes fake news. Reviewing input from Philosophers at UNC, Brennan navigates unfollowing, unfriending, and finding empathy for those who can't tell Babylon Bee from Breaking News. References & Special Thanks: Special thanks to the UNC Philosophy department for their anonymous contributions. All rights to music from this episode belong to Epidemic Sound.
If I intentionally commit one crime, but another worse crime results, can I be held accountable? How about those that aided me? In this episode, Anna dives into the efficacy and ethics of felony murder, touching on history in the common law and the American tradition. Citations: All music is the property of Epidemic Sound. People V. Aaron: https://law.justia.com/cases/michigan/supreme-court/1980/57376-0.html Lord Dacres & His Hunting Party: http://birdsongslaw.com/2008/06/25/read-a-history-of-the-felony-murder-rule/#:~:text=The%20common%20law%20felony%20murder,felony%2C%20the%20killing%20is%20murder.&text=it%20does%20not%20matter%20whether,life%20or%20criminally%20negligent%20behavior. On the comment that Felony Murder is an ineffective deterrent: The American Felony Murder Rule: Purpose and Effect. (D. Ganz) Berklee.edu
In this episode, Noah critiques the decision of the University Administration to send some students back in person on February 8th, a seemingly arbitrary date. We, UNC students, have finally started adjusting to online learning. So, unless the university can justify why we must start sending students back now, this decision is not worth the emotional, logistical, and physical stress that it will cause. " In order to start holding our community accountable to ethical obligations, we must first ask "Why?" " Citations: On mold being an acknowledged issue: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/education/article236367948.html#:~:text=Mold%20is%20an%20issue%20for,dorms%20and%20privately%20managed%20Granville&text=Emili%20Potts%20first%20noticed%20the,her%20leaky%20air%20conditioning%20unit.&text=The%20doctor%20told%20her%20she,linked%20to%20the%20AC%20unit. New York Times database on Coronavirus Data: NC, Orange County All rights to music featured in this podcast belong to Epidemic Sound.
What Should You Do? is a new episode series on Chapel Phil, led by Brennan Maynard. Philosophers often say a lot about what other people should do, but what would they do in different tense situations? We put UNC philosophers into zany or serious situations and review their responses. Someone has to do it! Content Warning: Suicide. (Skip mins. 3-5 if you please) In the inaugural episode, Brennan reviews how philosophers would act 1. in a zombie apocalypse, and 2. if they saw someone stealing some bread. We hope you enjoy the fast-paced dramatic reading! Citations: https://philosophy.unc.edu/people-page/faculty/ All audio clips in this video are the rights of Epidemic Sound, purchased and paid for by Chapel Phil.
Emily Rakes consults John Stuart Mill for advice on a concerning phenomenon: Anti-vaxxers endangering others in the name of "individualism". Does anti-vaxxing align with Mill's thoughts on individualism? How is the phenomenon typical of the United States' traditional individualism? These questions and more, explored on this episode of Chapel Phil! As always, special thanks to Sid Sirdeshmukh & congrats on his new position at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Your beat-making skills will be of good use up there. Citations: Alternative Medicine is a $34 Billion Industry, but Only One-Third of the Treatments have been Tested: Retrieved from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/alternative-medicine-is-a-34-billion-industry-but-only-one-third-of-the-treatments-have-been-tested-879411/ Big Analytics Data Shows How America's Individualism Complicated Coronavirus Response: Retrieved from https://news.virginia.edu/content/big-data-analytics-shows-how-americas-individualism-complicates-coronavirus-response
In this episode, Yueying debuts, referencing Nozick and Scruton's pieces on the concept of love. Forming a union and a meaningful relationship requires many changes to one's life. How does the concept depend on the formation of another entity -- a collective concept of "WE"? Special Thanks once again to Sid Sirdeshmukh for providing the beats featured on this episode. Sources Cited: Nozick, R., 1989, “Love’s Bond”, in The Examined Life: Philosophical Meditations, New York: Simon & Schuster, 68–86. Scruton, R., 1986, Sexual Desire: A Moral Philosophy of the Erotic, New York: Free Press. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/love/#:~:text=Nozick%20(1989)%20offers%20a%20union,desire%20that%20your%20beloved%20reciprocates.
When musicians act immorally, should we still listen to their music? In this episode, Elise discusses 1. the extent to which listening is an endorsement of an artist's actions, 2. whether we can separate art from an artist, and 3. how celebrity complicates the circumstances of public judgment. Highlight quote: TRIGGER WARNING: Sexual assault. Citations: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/10/arts/sexual-harassment-art-hollywood.html https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/timeline-of-chris-browns-history-of-violence-towards-women-103402/ https://www.insider.com/demi-lovato-finsta-pictures-anti-selena-gomez-accusations-2020-4 *we did not include links to Boogie Allen's cat or Beyonce's mattress pricing* As always, opinions expressed on Chapel Phil in no way represent the stance of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the UNC Philosophy Department, the Parr Center for Ethics, or Chapel Phil as a whole.
Happy Holidays! This year, we're all "Ba Humbug"! In her podcast debut, Brennan asks the question: Is it ethical to lie about Santa Claus to our children? Brennan consults many ethical perspectives in her search to determine an answer. Some perspectives include rule-based ethics, utilitarian calculations, Joe Biehl's "Lies, Damn Lies, and Santa Claus", and "Your Kids Believe in Santa? A Scientist Says to Tell Them to Stop It" from the Washington Post. Is the existence of Santa reflective of a societal desire for control and order over our children? Perhaps we are a cynical bunch... Special thanks to Sidharth Sirdeshmukh for masterminding the background beats! Links: https://philosophynow.org/issues/135/Lies_Damn_Lies_and_Santa_Claus https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2018/12/18/your-kids-believe-santa-scientist-says-tell-them-stop-it/ Opinions espoused on Chapel Phil do not reflect the standpoints of the Parr Center for Ethics, Chapel Phil, or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Noah and Max talk about how the pandemic has strained many peoples' mental health. Questions like: "What can we do to improve mental health while complying with our moral obligations to others" and "What is the balance between social interaction and mental health" strive to uncover some aspects of the complex relationship between the pandemic's obligations and our own obligations to maintain mental wellness. Episode Guide: 1- Social Beings 2- Discussion of adequate social interactions 3- manipulation of mental health as an excuse not to follow pandemic protocols 4- function of balancing obligations to others with obligations to ourselves Fact Check link: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/fact-checking-trumps-claim-suicide-thousands-economic-shutdown/story?id=69790273 The opinions expressed in Chapel Phil are not reflective of the podcast's overall opinions, the opinions of the UNC Philosophy Department, or the Parr Center for Ethics.
Anna and Noah provide insights about some of the best professors and classes that they have taken at UNC. As general advice, fulfilling your PH credit or continuing on in the philosophy major should be a fun and exciting process. We know that registration is stressful and overcomplicated, but, hopefully, this episode can provide some insights on who you might want to take, or what courses you should be on the lookout for in the future! As always, avoid those 8ams. Shoutout to Sidharth To see all of the courses offered by the department in the coming semester, follow this link! https://philosophy.unc.edu/undergraduate/undergraduate-courses/spring-2021/
This episode continues with Hamish hosting Pavel, Mary Elizabeth, and Garry. Now, the focus of the conversation shifts to critiques of religion's interaction with society. Has religion substituted proper mental healthcare for our elderly? Can the Church provide for the needs of society better than the government? These questions and more are explored as our guests dive deeper into how they would like to see religion's relationship with our world change. A greater description of each guest's background can be found in our last episode's description. Links to Bedlam documentary information: https://itvs.org/films/bedlam , https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIW6K3Xx6s0 As always, shout out to Hamish for starting his own podcast, Thoughts, which can be accessed here: https://linktr.ee/Thoughts_PhilosophyUntangled The views expressed on the Chapel Phil Podcast in no way, shape, or form represent the opinions of Chapel Phil, the Parr Center for Ethics, or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
In this episode, Hamish hosts a diverse group of religious and non-religious guests. The episode centers around exploring how religion guides ethics, whether people should be religious, and a discussion of how religion exists in our current American society. To ground this discussion we have a diverse set of guests: a conservative Christian, a progressive Christian, and an atheist. This episode was recorded earlier in the year, before the pandemic. Garry Crites is a well known-Durhamite. He is best known as the Executive Director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Garry is a graduate of Duke's religious history Ph.D. studies program. He has experience teaching conservative perspectives on Christianity from his time as a Professor at Duke. *Not to be confused with our notorious campus Gary the Pit Preacher*. For more information on Garry, see https://naminc.org/nami-north-carolina-announces-new-executive-director/ Reverend Mary Elizabeth Hanchey is a graduate of UNC Law School, Duke Divinity, and now serves at the United Church of Chapel Hill. She is known for her commitment to combining social justice in her mission to spread the gospel. Mary Elizabeth brings a dearth of experiential knowledge about our southern community, particularly the North Carolina community. Pavel Nitchovski is a self-proclaimed atheist, best known around UNC for teaching existentialism being the soul of the philosophy department. He is a graduate student in Philosophy and a High School Ethics Bowl Judge legend for asking questions to students about kicking puppies. He is passionate about film. Pavel hosts Philosophy at the Movies, a fun experience for UNC students to come and watch and discuss movies and their themes. We hope that it resumes after coronavirus passes. Pavel has the best humor and anecdotes in the Philosophy Department, according to the Chapel Phil team. This is the first of two episodes that will come from this extended dialogue.
Today on the podcast we're talking about the devil of government structures: Fascism. Joined by German History Prof., Konrad Jarausch, Hamish leads a discussion on the difficulties of defining fascism and identifying its historical causes. In the second half of the episode, we talk about the possibility of fascism returning. Towards the end, Dr. Jarausch argues that the subversive threat of the present day is unaccountable and unrepresentative governments masquerading as democracies. Citations: Encyclopaedia Britannica. (October, 2019). 'Fascism'. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/fascism/Intellectual-origins The New Republic. (June, 2019). 'The failure to define facism today'. Retrieved from https://newrepublic.com/article/154042/failure-define-fascism-today Jarausch, K. 'Broken Lives: How ordinary Germans experienced the 20th Century' (Princeton University Press: 2018)
With the increased help of the Parr Center, Chapel Phil is excited to announce two new types of episodes: The first series is titled Arete, (Air-ih-tay) which is Greek for virtue. These episodes will highlight students on campus that demonstrate a particularly noteworthy trait. Nominations will come from staff or other peers. This series is a new way to recognize and give a platform to outstanding students and people in our community. The second set of new episodes will be called "what should you do?" (or WSYD for short) This type of episode will feature the fellows exploring different topics, like fire, planes, etc. and our obligations when navigating them. Topics will be one word. We will evaluate anonymous hot takes from members of the philosophy department and other UNC staff on top of our own opinions. The goal of these episodes is to increase our presence in the UNC community and allow for the Parr Center Fellows to engage in ethical discussion. We are excited and ready to diversify beyond our weekly interview-based episodes!
In this episode, Hamish and Max Forster, a guest parr center fellow, recorded a special episode with one of our favorite Assistant Philosophy professors at UNC, Dr. Alex Worsnip. The discussion centered on Dr. Worsnip’s research about how people can maintain irrational mental states. In the second half of the episode, they explored how rationality relates to political disagreements and echo chambers. The episode concludes by talking about the relationship between ethical and political beliefs. Dr.Worsnip possesses an impressive ability to construct complex philosophy in an exciting and accessible way! Citations: Worsnip, A. 'Moral Rethink'. (2012). Retrieved from https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/arts-and-books/jonathan-haidt-criticism-goodhart-review Dr. Worsnip’s page. Retrieved from http://www.alexworsnip.com
This episode is a deep dive into the inspiration behind a masterful collection of poems. William Brewer has been touched personally and has taken up a mantle to write for all who have been harmed by the opioid epidemic. Specifically regarding West Virginia, Brewer brings a pointed critique of how the United States can erase states with a "culture of extraction". His lyrical style, amorphous writing style, and his personal opinions drive this episode into avenues of literature and culture previously unexplored on Chapel Phil. Hosting on this episode is Noah. https://williambrewer.net/about
This is a short outtake from a tangent, which was edited out of our last episode with Geoff Sayre-McCord. Learn who Sina's favorite philosopher is, what he thought about dinner parties, and which sense is the most worthless! This is an exciting, short bit that we are happy to share.
What is the PPE program? Coming on to talk about the second most popular minor at UNC is the director of the program, Morehead-Cain Distinguished Professor Geoff Sayre-McCord. We discuss Geoff's experiences as the executive director, how he has seen students grow, and what some of his best experiences have been with the program. Plus, outtakes to come! Citations and Relevant Links Geoffrey Sayre-McCord. (Nov, 2019), retrieved from: https://philosophy.unc.edu/people/geoffrey-sayre-mccord/ PPE Program. (Nov, 2019), retrieved from: https://ppe.unc.edu
In this episode, Sina and Hamish speak with Dr. Hiroaki Matsuura on the efficacy of human rights. Join our conversation on human rights, health, and public policy! Link to published works
The Monroe Doctrine: a lecture with Dr. Philip Brenner Enacted in 1823 but still relevant under the Trump administration, what is the Monrow Doctrine? Today’s episode features Dr. Philip Brenner, director of the US Foreign Policy Program and professor at American University. Dr. Brenner discusses not only the unique role the Monroe Doctrine has played in shaping the complex and one-sided diplomatic history of the United States in Latin and South America, but also its relevance today. Citations: American University School of International Service: Philip Brenner. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.american.edu/sis/faculty/pbrenne.cfm Gilderhus, Mark T. (Feb, 2006). The Monroe Doctrine: Meanings and Implications. Retrieved from 1111/j.1741-5705.2006.00282.x December 2, 1823: Seventh Annual Message (Monroe Doctrine). (2019). The University of Virginia Miller Center. Retrieved from https://millercenter.org/the-presidency/presidential-speeches/december-2-1823-seventh-annual-message-monroe-doctrine
A Thanksgiving Dinner Survival Guide: The Importance of Conversation with Pearce Godwin On today's episode, we have on Pearce Godwin, a UNC Alumnus and creator/CEO of the National Conversation Project. After receiving acclaim for his impromptu article titled ‘It’s Time to Listen’, he went on to create the 'National Conversation Project', which seeks to have people #listenfirst from all over the globe. His #listenfirst pledge has signees from all over mainstream media, politics, and sports. Signees include Van Jones, Fareed Zakaria, Dominique Wilkins, Johnathan Haidt, and Katie Couric. We discuss how to navigate politics in a contentious moment that approaches us all: thanksgiving dinner. In on this episode are Co-Hosts Noah Upchurch and Sina Shanizadeh, along with Chris West and esteemed guest Pearce Godwin. Citations: Listen First Project. (Nov, 2019). retrieved from, http://www.listenfirstproject.org/pearce-godwin Listen First Project. (Nov, 2019). It's Time to Listen. Retrieved from http://www.listenfirstproject.org/time-to-listen C.K. (Nov. 21st, 2018). Is Political Polarization Cutting Thanksgiving Dinners Short?. The Economist. Retrieved from https://www.economist.com/democracy-in-america/2018/11/21/is-political-polarisation-cutting-thanksgiving-dinners-short Oliphant, J. (Nov. 20th, 2018). Most Say Their Family is Okay with Discussing Politics —But it Helps if the Family Agrees. Pew Research Center. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/11/20/most-say-their-family-is-ok-with-discussing-politics-but-it-helps-if-the-family-agrees
Criminal and Retributive Justice: Rethinking Blame with Professor Erin Kelly On this episode we are excited to welcome Professor Erin Kelly of Tufts University. Her work has been instrumental in identifying the wrongs of our current American penal and judicial systems. Our conversation dives into the core issues that ground retributive judgement and blame within our current system. Join us in our ongoing conversation about the theory, problems, and possible solutions for the criminal justice system in America. Citations: Kelly, Erin. (2018). The Limits of Blame: Rethinking Punishment and Responsibility. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Prison Policy. (2019). Recidivism and Reentry webpage. Retrieved from https://www.prisonpolicy.org/research/recidivism_and_reentry/ Borger, Julian. (2005). US Becomes Last Country to End Death Penalty For Under-18s. The Guardian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2005/mar/02/usa.julianborger Bountyhunter.edu (2019). How to Become a Bail Bondsman. Retrieved from https://www.bountyhunteredu.org/how-to-become-a-bail-bondsman/#eligibility Professor Kelly’s website: https://as.tufts.edu/philosophy/people/faculty/kelly
Brexit: Witnessing Political Fission Great Britain threatens the world order with their decision to leave the EU. Will they actually leave? What are the arguments for and against? Here to break down the ramifications of the brexit phenomenon is former London School of Economics professor and current assistant professor at Carolina, Dr. Alex Marcoci. Key players are “dead in a ditch” Boris Johnson, the European Union, Irish terrorists, and the largest conglomerate of banks in the world. In the first episode we detail the background of brexit. The second dives into 1. the paradoxical problems that Ireland, the small island, pose and 2. if Brexit represents an inherit failure with democratic systems. We hope you enjoy! On this episode: Noah Upchurch, Sina Shanizadeh, Chris West, and Dr. Alexandru Marcoci Citations: BBC News. (October, 2019). Brexit: All you need to know about the UK leaving the EU. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-32810887 Morgan, Russ. (May, 2019). ‘Brexperts’ can earn £80 an hour explaining Brexit to those who are confused. theSpectator.com. Retrieved fromhttps://blogs.spectator.co.uk/2019/05/brexperts-can-earn-80-an-hour-explaining-brexit-to-those-who-are-confused/
Brexit: Witnessing Political Fission Great Britain threatens the world order with their decision to leave the EU. Will they actually leave? What are the arguments for and against? Here to break down the ramifications of the brexit phenomenon is former London School of Economics professor and current assistant professor at Carolina, Dr. Alex Marcoci. Key players are “dead in a ditch” Boris Johnson, the European Union, Irish terrorists, and the largest conglomerate of banks in the world. In the first episode we detail the background of brexit. The second dives into 1. the paradoxical problems that Ireland, the small island, pose and 2. if Brexit represents an inherit failure with democratic systems. We hope you enjoy! On this episode: Noah Upchurch, Sina Shanizadeh, Chris West, and Dr. Alexandru Marcoci Citations: BBC News. (October, 2019). Brexit: All you need to know about the UK leaving the EU. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-32810887 Morgan, Russ. (May, 2019). ‘Brexperts’ can earn £80 an hour explaining Brexit to those who are confused. theSpectator.com. Retrieved fromhttps://blogs.spectator.co.uk/2019/05/brexperts-can-earn-80-an-hour-explaining-brexit-to-those-who-are-confused/
In this episode we talk privacy. Under discussion is the recently released Motherboard report, which shines light on how the DMV has been selling citizens' data to third parties. It truly is a crazy time we live in! Do investigators have your address and license plate number? Join us on this quick journey into DMV profiteering, individual rights, and government sketchiness as a whole. Source: Cox, Joseph. (Sept. 2019)Vice News. https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/43kxzq/dmvs-selling-data-private-investigators-making-millions-of-dollars
In today's episode, Sina, Noah, and Xzavier question why supremacy has persisted throughout history. We explore historical causes and philosophical justifications. Sources: History of the White Patriots in NC: https://www.ncpedia.org/white-patriots-north-carolina Racism behind the Star Spangled Banner: https://www.theroot.com/star-spangled-bigotry-the-hidden-racist-history-of-the-1790855893 Films on African American struggle/oppression: Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies, and Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films, Updated and Expanded 5th Edition 5th - Donald Bogle Hobbes on the state of nature and security: Thomas Hobbes, Leviathan For further discussion on terrorism and a look on how the UK uses its courts to define terrorism: Incitement to, and Glorification of, Terrorism - Eric Barendt For further discussion on segregation and how the US divided black and white communities: http://www.pbs.org/race/000_About/002_04-background-03-11.htm
In todays episode, Anna, Noah, Sina, and Xzavier will be discussing power. Is it ever justified to hold power? Can power be used to achieve morally good goals? What can you get away with when you have power? These are some of the questions that we have about the world we live in. We will be using the Russia vs. Ukraine conflict as an example as we work through this problem.