Necessary B******t Podcast

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about the US national public debt and other political breaking points. They talk about the age of elected officials and their ability to represent the public, the failure of populism and the cares of the middle-class, the scale of US military spending and public trust, foreign social welfare programs compared to the US, the increasing cost of living, the myth of foreign-held debt, the crises of raising the debt ceiling, the cost of education and the looming problem of student loans, the conflict of working to live vs. living to work, how separated national politics are from the local, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 03 June 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss recent tragedies of mass-shootings and gun violence in America. They talk about general firearm safety and hunter safety courses for minors, how similar faux guns can be to real firearms, the effectiveness and lethality of firearms as tools of destruction, how America's unique history informs the collective psyche of violence, the culture of firearms, how reason and statistical analysis is often ignored around the conversation of gun control, weapon restrictions that are already in place, the vagueness of mental illness and infringing on individual rights, the context surrounding the Second Amendment in the US Bill of Rights, how law enforcement factors into gun violence and protecting the rights of citizens, how dangerous guns truly are, gun violence statistics and the definitions of a mass-shooting, the differences between inner-city gun violence and mass-shootings, the hard problem of mass-shootings and the instinct to kill others with no seeming justification at a societal level, access to firearms as the point of tension in gun violence, how culture ought to have a higher level of responsibility, the ignorance of the specifics of firearms on the question of gun control, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 26 April 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian catch up on their own mental health psychological troubles. They talk about childish naivete and adult cynicism, a careful balance between optimism and pessimism, how change affects our mental states, how parents imprint on their children, how children are thrust into an indifferent world, Josh's recent diagnosis, how anxiety affects people differently, the common symptoms of depression, revenge bedtime procrastination, the terror of sleep paralysis and hallucination, Patrick Rothfuss and his literary allusions, cognitive behavioral therapy and its links to stoicism, a romantic's critique of stoicism, the distraction of intrusive thoughts, embracing the real world and emotions, the importance of diet on our minds and "fad" diets, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 30 March 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about the importance of art in human culture and the separation of artists and their art. They talk about linguistic derivations of the word "art" and academic study of its definition, whether or not anything could be called art and something's inherent aesthetic value, the differences between "art" and "craft", the function of and subset of art, how art is used to share narratives about culture, the emotional and physiological connection to aesthetics, Napoleon Bonaparte and other highly influential historical figures, Friedrich Nietzsche's perspective on the necessity of art, ugliness and beauty, the work of contemporary artists and emergence of "modern" art, the influence of Richard Wagner and the increase of antisemitism, how so-called "success" holds back the cancelling of prominent public figures, the public controversy of J.K. Rowling and the backlash to her remarks from voices within the queer and transgender movement, how Rowling's success has given her the power of influence in the culture, whether or not Rowling is or what she has said is "transphobic", the extreme reactions to Rowling's comments from those within the trans-activist movement, the use of moralistic language, the differences between sex and gender and Rowling's concern of the trans-movement's direction, how movements have been successful throughout history, and various other topics.What is art?The Definition of ArtAesthetics"The Joyous Science" by Friedrich NietzschePeriods in Western Art HistoryHow Art Arrived At Jackson PollockA Complete Breakdown of the J.K. Rowling Transgender-Comments ControversyJ.K. Rowling Writes about Her Reasons for Speaking out on Sex and Gender IssuesThe Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling | The Free PressBBC apologizes for ‘unchallenged claims' about J.K. Rowling for the second time this monthJ.K. Rowling Criticizes Reform Bill That Makes It Easier for Trans People to Legally Change GenderJ.K. Rowling Funds Sex Abuse Crisis Center That Excludes Trans WomenFollow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 16 March 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the implications and responsibility of online streaming and content creation. They talk about the minimal barriers of becoming a streamer or "content creator" and the attraction of the industry to children and young adult creators, the exposure to technology that children now have, the battle for engagement on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, the lengths people are going to achieve fame and wealth and redefining work, mukbang and the reflection an audience has of the overall culture, Mr. Beast and his supposed altruistic and philanthropic acts of donation and charity in exchange for viewership and engagement, the large audiences that content creators have over legacy media, speech and intent, the recent controversy over defamation at Fox News, vocal minorities and the language of "misinformation", a micro-controversy in the Hunt: Showdown gaming community, certainty and skepticism, audience capture and influence, having measured conversations and knowing when or when not to talk about certain topics, the illusion of freedom and imprisonment of passion, the dangers of solipsism and nihilism from someone like Alex Jones and his followers, how some are held to entirely different standards of accountability, and various other topics.Twitch tries clearing up confusion over streamers' responsibility for community actionsList of most-followed Twitch channelsFox News' ‘The Five' topples ‘Tucker Carlson Tonight' to become new cable news ratings leaderHow Much Do Twitch Streamers MakeInside the daily lives of successful live streamersHow livestreaming has changed gaming cultureMrBeast: Why has YouTuber faced criticism for blind surgery video?Forget law school, these kids want to be a YouTube starInside the rise of Nikocado Avocado, the extreme-eating YouTuber whose dramatic meltdowns have led to years of controversy and feudsHuuge Twitch ChannelAmerica's Favorite Flimsy Pretext for Limiting Free SpeechFollow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 03 March 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian speak about the Covid-19 disease and the impact on the world at the tail-end of the pandemic.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 12 January 2023

In this episode, Josh and Ian return from their holiday break to revisit their podcast anniversary conversation. They talk about the evolution of their own perspectives, whether or not democracy is the best way to govern society, their descriptions of 'happiness', the pressure of economic stability, stability as a navigational challenge and fairness, the recent $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill passed by the US Congress, the opaqueness of US social welfare programs, the allocation of the US Federal budget, man's effect on nature and artificial selection, what large scale issues mean for individuals, the lack of familiarity in our social lives, the social problems of living in cities, an attempt at political moderation, the woes of the medical industry, redefining class, how anxiety can be petrifying, how the idea of freedom can be distracting in American politics, and various other topics.Five highlights from the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill Congress just passedOctober 1993: Congress Cancels Funding for the SSCNuclear fusion researchers have achieved historic energy milestoneHalf of Americans Don't Vote. What Are They Thinking?Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 30 December 2022

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about former US President Donald Trump declaring his Presidential run for 2024, the potential campaign of Ron DeSantis and Republican party division, similarities between Biden and Trump, what it means to be a productive citizen in a capitalist society, the value of a college degree, griefing and the competition of debt and punishment, the monopoly of TicketMaster, President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan being held up in the courts, the ineptitude of US Congress and legislation by fiat, economic comparisons between the US and Nordic countries, the possible antisemitism or mental degradation of Kanye West, the power and responsibility of artists and people of great influence, the death of Aaron Carter, the difference between consumer and independant art, the world of Twitch streamers and participating in content creation, the importance of art in culture, NASA's recent and upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon, and various other topics.A federal judge calls student loan relief unlawful, deepening limbo for borrowersKanye West exclusive: Rapper tells Tucker Carlson story behind White Lives Matter shirtKanye 'Ye' West Interview | Lex Fridman Podcast #332Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 19 November 2022

In this episode, Josh and Ian return from an extended break on the podcast to catch up and comment on current events. They talk about time management in adulthood and family life, Ian's various career choices, challenges in parenthood and how alike children are to their parents, will to power and the battle between passion and reason, the art of performance, celebrity podcasters, the podcast as an outlet and the exercise of conversation, the craft of misery making, understanding our own philosophical perspective, the current Russian-Ukranian war, the annexation of the Crimean penninsula and Putin's egoism, America's and the West's investments into Ukranian support, the potential fears of another World War, Elon Musk's $44 billion purchase of Twitter and his intent on making the platform a bastion of free speech, and other subjects. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @necessarybspodWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 5 November 2022

Returning from Apathetic Avenue to BS Boulevard, Josh and Ian return to discuss Doctor Strange speculation and take a (perfectly legitimate and not a trick from Harvard) test to determine whether or not Ian is transphobic. They discuss:Can Tom Cruise be Iron Man?Josh learns about implicit bias from some school named HarvardThe difference between white people and black people vs. weapons and "non-harmful objects"Ian takes a test about preferring cisgender or transgender in real timeThe difference between Hispanic, Latino, and AsianAre all sexually active adults past-child molesters?Can straight men join drag?Proving that you can't prove that 0.9999999........... = 1A transgender matching game for bigots (or not)Philosophy < Psychology < SociologyDon't Look Up is a bad/good movieBlind spots in the Implicit Bias testsDid Koko the Gorilla speak English?Recorded 21 January 2022Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

On this Bullshit Boulevard, Josh and Ian talk about the MCU, the "Great Resignation", and some other bullshit. Some of the topics include:the latest trailer for Spider-Man: No Way Home,nostalgic blockbusters and movie hype,Spider-Man's portrayal and future films in the franchise,the DC Extended Universe and its new cinematic direction,spoilers for Marvel's Shang-Chi and Eternals,going to arcades as an adult,nerd collections and the new pop culture,the exciting prospects of FromSoftware's Elden Ring,the pandemic's influence on the supposed "great resignation",and business responses to the market.Recorded 18 November 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

This week, Josh and Ian get together to talk some bullshit about careers and psychology. Some of the topics include:- Personality traits vs. work environment,- Jungian psychology,- what makes a career,- the value of experience, - following the money first,- becoming the US President, - failing creative children,- building up our culture,- content creators and the attention market,- struggling artists,- the rise of YouTube and future creators,- the ubiquity of systems and markets,- production and globalization- happiness and fulfillment,- and other bullshit.Recorded 28 Oct 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

This week in the world, Josh and Ian get together on a Thursday night to talk bullshit and nerdshit. Some of the points include but are not limited to:- How Christian Chick-Fill-A employees bless every chicken sandwich and customer,- "Homophobic" and/or religious companies,- Service industry loopholes and discrimination,- Culture shock within the state and whether or not blackface is still in style,- Companies catering to the vocal minority and "woke" capitalism,- Celebrity role models,- The new "racist" NASA telescope,- Cultural vs. Legal justice,- How public virtue signalling might effect personal relationships,- Biden's $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill,- Playing the nerdy-ass Dark Souls games and challenging our buttholes.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ongoing series of candid conversations. They talk about the explosion in Nashville, TN, Coyote Ugly and 'relevant' country singers, Trump's exit from the US Presidency, the electoral college, the government stimulus package for covid relief, Wonder Woman 1984 and the future of the DCEU, Disney's plan for introducing the multiverse into the MCU, the gonorrhea super-strain and high school health classes, covid vaccines finally hitting the market, the mystification of science, the problem of the 'cure' for cancer(s), consistency of information surrounding the pandemic, political conspiracies and conservative fears of Democrats and Kamala Harris, and various other shenanigans.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 27 December 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ongoing series of candid conversations. They talk about feedback to their recent episode on revolution, the nature of ideas and bridging the gap between the political spectrum, the value of compassion within a collective society, the class disparity within larger communities, market competition and the success of production, accountability on the powers that be, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 28 November 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the podcast going on hiatus and what the future will bring.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 19 March 2022Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian return from their holiday break to revisit their podcast anniversary conversation. They talk about cultural heritage and racial pride, birthright and happenstance, a proper place for critique, hyperbolic reactionary politics, the media's impact on cultural conversations and whether or not democracy is in decline, the Democratic Party's push-back against W. Virginian Senator Joe Manchin, the tribal back-and-forth that political parties play as they take office, the problem with the overall federal structure, the American focus on the US Presidency, the divide between local and national politics, the vast difference between US states in their covid responses, the federal government's response to failing industries and spending taxpayer's money, the lack of incentive for political change, the Biden administration's latest OSHA regulations on vaccine mandates and the effectiveness of the actual mandates, the ongoing schism between individualism and collectivism, a possibly "poor" old Honda metaphor and being humbled by nature, how media and entertainment distract us from real issues, cultural attention deficit, and other topics. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 30 December 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss criticisms of religious faith, the prospects of God and Nature, and the Netflix series Midnight Mass.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Baruch SpinozaA Confession and Other Religious WritingsThe Brothers KaramazovBook 5, Ch. 4Recorded 24 November 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the themes and moral lessons that can be found in fantasy stories and the recent film The Green Knight. They talk about the symbolism found in the aesthetics of The Green Knight film adaptation, the nature of the Green Knight's game, Sir Gawain's growth into adulthood and knighthood, honor and following your principles, how fantasy has been inspired by medieval lore and mythology, accepting your fate, what constitutes and how we define fantasy, the direct link between fantasy and mythology, the popularity of young adult fiction, the importance of language of meaning of words, fantasy races and their allegorical representation, Sauron's Ring of Power, how fantasy literature can affect the same people at different ages, children and honesty, the flames of ambition, how games like Dark Souls and Elden Ring illustrate our own world, superstition and ritual, and other topics. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:What The Green Knight Wants You To Think AboutThe Lord of the Rings Illustrated EditionSir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, and Sir OrfeoGame of Thrones Leather Boxed Set Song of Ice and Fire SeriesDark Souls Exclusive ReviewELDEN RING - Official Gameplay RevealRecorded 11 November 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the controversy of Dave Chappelle's Netflix special "The Closer", and then later talk about the comedic parallels in Fyodor Dostoevsky's short story "Polzunkov". In the first half, they talk about how comedy is supposed to function and understanding the performance of a comedian, offense and being made uncomfortable, how jokes might cater to safetyism and whether or not "offensive" jokes lead to physical harm, progressive tribalism, differentiating between sex and gender, whether or not a concept can be "real", the trappings of idealism, how Chappelle's special led to controversy at Netflix and the mass company walkout, whether or not criticism can be undergone by not consuming what is being criticized, their own "tasteful" jokes, the emergence of comedy in history, and Chappelle's new soapbox. In the second half, they talk about an April Fool's Day gone wrong in Dostoevsky's short story, the birth of a Russian comedian, the wisdom of people who live on the streets, what it takes to be public speaker, whether or not the story can be viewed as a cautionary tale, and the burden of embarrassment. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Netflix Boss Doubles Down On Dave Chappelle's Transphobia In Embarrassing EmailDave Chappelle's BetrayalDave Chappelle's Trans Comments in The Closer Are Causing Ripple Effects Through NetflixPolzunkov (1848) by DostoevskyRecorded 14 October 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the recent Texas abortion "ban" and the confusion of political slogans. They talk about 5-6 week restriction on abortions in Texas and some of the points within the bill, working around the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision and soft totalitarianism, the difficulty of detecting pregnancies early on and family planning, some of the main reasons that women have abortions, the philosophical differences between "life", "human beings", and "persons", whether or not a fetus  could be considered a "person", a burning thought experiment, the influence of the present and future on real and possible persons, the quality of life and possibility of suffering, the role of physicians in healthcare ethics, the role of religion in women's healthcare and the prospects of the human soul, a drunken thought experiment and the world's unluckiest violinist, their personal takes on abortion, complications in pregnancies, grasping at straws when defining life, how political slogans can distort moral messaging and emotions, how ideology frameworks our thought processes, the rise of black markets in the wake of government bans, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:We annotated Texas' near-total abortion ban. Here's what the law says about enforcement.Roe v. Wade Supreme Court Decision"Pro choice" and "Pro Life" - phrase meaning and originPregnancy Week 5 - 5 Weeks PregnantAbortion ethicsThe Pro-Life vs Pro-Choice DebateRecorded 16 September 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about the 20 year anniversary of 9/11 and U.S. troops exiting from Afghanistan. They talk about the initial exit strategy of U.S. troops and citizens from Afghanistan,  the Cold War and the formation of the Taliban, the Soviet Union and spread of communism, their original thoughts and feelings of the September 11th attacks and the fall of the Word Trade Center twin towers, war in the middle-east and the prospects of nation building, the critiques against American imperialism and European colonialism, the  underestimation of Islam and the instinct of religious zealotry, the initial invasion of Afghanistan the prolonged wars that followed, leaving room for cultural relativism and understanding Islamic tribal sectarianism, allowing the Taliban to govern themselves and Afghani citizens, understanding Shariah Law and what Islamist's take from the Koran, looking back to tradition to solve modern moral problems, the migrant crisis in the wake of the Syrian civil war, the influence of the West throughout history in the middle-east, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Inside the Taliban's Takeover of AfghanistanTaliban Is Stronger Than Ever 15 Years After U.S. InvasionWe Joined The Marines Trying To Defeat The Strongest Taliban Army YetJocko Willink: 'Sickened' to see US weapons left behind for terroristsWhat We Know About The 13 U.S. Service Members Killed In The Kabul Airport AttackThe history of Afghanistan and US ties, from the Cold War to 9/11Afghanistan War | History, Combatants, Facts, & TimelineISIS-K, Islamic State, The Taliban and Al-Qaeda: How Are They Different?Afghan War: Do Americans support Biden pulling out?This Is How the US's Afghanistan Exit Plan UnraveledWhat is Sharia law? What does it mean for women in Afghanistan?Shariah | Definition, History, & ExamplesUnderstanding Sharia LawWhat is sharia law? What to know about the Taliban's move toward religious rule in AfghanistanRecorded 2 September 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian speak about the latest state mask mandates and the perception of tyranny by citizens. They talk about people's initial protests to mask mandates, the rise of the COVID Delta variant and how variants arise, the state of Oregon's latest pandemic restrictions, the psychology of wearing masks and similar legal preventative health measures, the difference between rights and privileges, individual liberties and the cognitive dissonance when private businesses act on those liberties, civil disobedience and adhering to the behavior of unvaccinated people, responsibility to the republic and the harm principle, other countries lock-downs, restrictions beyond the pandemic on our freedoms, literacy in science and media, civic duty and responsibility, using statistics to fit a particular narrative, data from the CDC, the prospects of super-bugs and antibiotic resistance, existential risk stemming from climate change, the lack of wisdom or intelligence in dealing with problems of scale, and various other points.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:New Oregon Mask MandateDelta VariantCOVID-19 Weekly Cases and Deaths per 100,000 Population by Age, Race/Ethnicity, and SexVaccination Demographic TrendsRecorded 12 August 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this bonus episode, Josh and Ian discuss the latest Netflix special from comedian Bo Burnham. They talk about Burnham's relevance to the cultural zeitgeist and the background to the special's production, the staging of the special in light of the camera's presence, the evolution of art and content creation, generational divide, smartphones and screen time, the commodification of identity, online vs. in-person performances, the internet and information overload, attentions span and boredom, growing up and millennial adulthood, fame and mediocrity, the simplification of ideas in art and media literacy, the question of race and culture, finding meaning and living online, gazing into the camera lens and fighting the monsters of commodity capitalism, and various other points. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcastWebsite: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links: The Meaning of Bo Burnham's Inside – A Philosopher ReactsBreaking Open The Format of Bo Burnham's InsideRecorded 29 July 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian speak about cancel culture and state laws surrounding critical race theory. They discuss the necessity to talking about cancel culture, the differences between cancelling and accountability, understanding the current language of the culture, the history of "conservative" movements cancelling certain sectors of art and entertainment, the debate between creationism and evolution in public schools, the conservative impulse to defend the liberal ideology, political correctness and being decent/respectable, the recent attempts by conservatives to ban the teaching of critical race theory in K-12 schools, Chris Rufo's influence on conservatives and war against CRT, Kimberly Crenshaw and the origins of CRT found within critical theory, their own impressions of CRT and race as a social construction, tackling racism structurally vs. individually, race vs. economic inequality, the cost of education and growing student debt, how to educate our children, and various other topics. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:What is cancel culture? How the concept has evolved to mean very different things to different people.What is cancel culture? Everything to know about the toxic online trendWhat Is Cancel Culture?A Lesson on Critical Race Theory - American BarThe GOP's 'Critical Race Theory' Fixation, ExplainedA 'Forgotten History' Of How The U.S. Government Segregated AmericaVisualizing the racial disparities in mass incarcerationParental Advisory: The Story of a Warning LabelCreationism and the “conspiracy” of evolution: inside the UK's evangelical schoolsHow a Conservative Activist Invented the Conflict Over Critical Race TheoryWe Disagree on a Lot of Things. Except the Danger of Anti-Critical Race Theory Laws.Critical TheoryRecorded 21 July 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian speak with U.S. Navy veteran Grant Owens about war and the military industrial complex. They talk about the power of the U.S. military and its naval force, capitalism and the influence of China on the global economy, the difference between the Navy and other branches of the military, the selective service, the global threat from China and Russia, the war in Afghanistan and how technology has changed violent conflict, the amount of armed conflict the United States is involved in, military contracts and the percentage of the U.S. budget is spent on the Department of Defense, warrior culture and the heroism imposed on U.S. veterans, hazing and camaraderie in the military, the link between patriotism and nationalism, the necessity of the U.S. military in context with global threats, the humanitarian crises in North Korea and China, nuclear deterrents and energy independence, America's identity crisis and how the conservative far-right has high-jacked American exceptionalism, and other topics.Grant Owens was a  five year U.S. Navy submariner, serving on the USS Albuquerque. He studied engineering at Portland State University. Grant is currently working as a mechanical engineer living in Portland, Oregon.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 1 July 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian give an update on the latest political news from the G7 summit and the global pandemic. They talk about the COVID-19 vaccines and their side effects, the latest info-dumb on the Fauci emails, "trusting the science" and skepticism of authority, personal hygiene and rights vs. responsibility, the SARS-COV-2 "lab-leak theory" and hyper-politicization, tribalism and zealotry in American politics, W. Virginian Senator Joe Manchin and bipartisanship, the meaning behind political representation, how local and state politics can turn national, psychological problem solving, the US Competition and Innovation Act and Biden's national budget proposal, the recent G7 summit and the myriad problems of China, the US national debt and the "value" of currency, and the nature of human freedom. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:No, Dr. Fauci's emails were not leaked, they were obtained through FOIA requestsAnthony Fauci's Emails Reveal The Pressure That Fell On One ManScientist Opens Up About His Early Email to Fauci on Virus OriginsCOVID Data TrackerPresident Biden's budget proposal projects debt rising past WWII levelshttps://www.usdebtclock.org/47th G7 Summit: 11-13 June 2021John Cena Apology to ChinaInside Higher Ed Senate Passes Bill Funding Technology Research Through NSFt5 days agoSenate passes $250 billion tech bill aimed to boost US competition with ChinaJoe Manchin: the Democrat who holds the fate of Biden's agenda in his handsOpinion | The secret strategy that explains how Joe Manchin wields his powerManchin on his veto power over Biden agenda: 'It's not a good place to be'Recorded 16 June 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about whether or not we live in a just world. They talk about Americans refusing to take the covid vaccine, principles and keeping your word, Plato's Republic and the inquisitive nature of Socrates, their own definitions of 'justice', acting in our own best interests, formal definitions of justice, restorative justice and being closer to the community, how resentment drives society apart, justice within the context of survival, the murder of George Floyd and the trail of Derek Chauvin, police violence and healing in America, the workings and faults of the criminal justice system, individuals and culture, as well as making some confessions of injustice. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Plato's The RepublicJustice- and fairness-related behaviors in nonhuman primatesDerek Chauvin guilty in death of George FloydWas justice served in the Derek Chauvin trial? Here's what our readers told usWhy Honor Matters by Tammler SommersRecorded 26 May 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

On this B.S. Boulevard, Josh and Ian cover a variety of topics and give an update on their lives. They talk about early childhood and cognitive development, the nature of being human, children and the negation of their own bodies by adults, ambiguity and nuance in learning, being born into an already 'worlded' world, being open to exploratory conversations, negative images of the body, pleasure in suffering, the question of 'what is nature?', philosophical monism, the 'separation' of man from nature, education and self-reliance, Dark Souls and the popularization of the Souls-genre by FromSoftware, video game challenge and how the Soulsborne games shape the perception of other games, environmental storytelling and the obscurity of the narrative of Souls games, Souls-lore and the community of players, the philosophical themes that move from Dark Souls to Dark Souls 3, difficulty and working on understanding what Souls games are asking of the player, and gaming preferences. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:VaatiVidya YouTubeHow Dark Souls' Undead Burg Teaches Through Suffering | Art of the LevelRecorded 12 May 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the philosophical underpinnings and consequences of pessimism. They talk about the immediate future of the podcast, misconceptions about pessimism and parallel philosophies, world-view and personal attitude, HBO's True Detective and the public's understanding of pessimistic ideas,  a deep dive into philosophical differences, political stagnation, techno-futurism and rational optimism, Arthur Schopenhauer and our relationship with suffering, finding joy in cynicism, deserving and fulfillment, necessary suffering and grand indifference, childhood vs. adulthood and the power of perspective, traumatic experiences, depictions of Portland, OR, pessimistic blindness to aesthetic beauty, cancel culture and the "wokening", the IDW and liberal ideology, the morality behind birthing children and propagating the human race, the parallel between pessimism,  anti-natalism, and nihilism, human's impact on the environment, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Making Sense Podcast #244 - Food, Climate, and Pandemic RiskEssays & Aphorisms by Arthur SchopenhauerNihilism and Our Present MomentVery Bad Wizards Episode 199: When Philosophy Goes SidewaysRecorded 14 April 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ism-series by talking about the misconceptions of, formation of, and the political use of the progressive movement. They talk about political slants against progressives, the rise of the 'progressive era' during the industrial revolution in the late 19th/early 20th century, technological progress and it's cultural impact, the inevitable comparisons between progressivism and Marxism or socialism, the progressive movement's split from liberalism, the goals of the progressive movement, the 'common good', equality vs. equity, the impossibility of equal outcomes, student debt and the added costs of education, FDR and the New Deal, the role of technology in political and social change, free markets and consumerism, the problem of education in rural America, career politicians and the vast injection of wealth into American politics, genuine improvement vs. utopian idealism, and various other topics. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:ProgressivismThe Progressive Era: Crash Course US HistoryThe US has a lot of money, but it does not look like a developed countryThe Gilded Age Summary & AnalysisRecorded 31 March 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ism-series by talking about the background of contemporary conservatism. They talk about the psychological influences of political temperaments, the most common themes found in conservative philosophy, the impact of power and hierarchy, the role of human nature in the structure of society, the inevitable link between religion and conservatism, the reach of moral quandaries, individual rights, the similarities between conservatives and liberals, how the far-Left radicalized the far-Right, a few of the most prominent conservative thinkers, the structure of some revolutions, what kinds of change should happen in society, the value of order and chaos, the lens through in which we should view conservatism, the moral and logical inconsistencies found on both the Right and the Left, and the links between patriotism and nationalism. Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Conservative themesThe Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and ReligionAndrew Sullivan on the War Within Conservatism and Why It Matters to All of UsThe Conservative Soul: Fundamentalism, Freedom, and the Future of the RightConservatism: The Fight for a TraditionA Political Philosophy: Arguments for ConservatismReflections on the Revolution in FranceThe Rise of Conservatism: Crash Course US HistoryAnti-Racism Is Becoming Troublingly RacistRecorded 8 March 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

After a two-month hiatus, Josh and Ian are back in this episode to talk about Shakespeare. They talk about Josh's background in theater studies, the psychology of stageplays, famous Shakespeare plays and their widespread influence, acting as a craft, characters expressing empathy in plays and film, audience participation, Shakespeare's impact on the English language, the differences between comedy and tragedy, the culture of Broadway in the New York City Theater District, the medium in which stories are told, the way we experience stories, the different spin on Shakespearean plays, thespians and actors viewed through the lens of family, the influence of ancient Greek plays on Shakespeare, the intellectualization of narrative and the 'real' world, the story of our lives and the power of speech, superstition within the thespian community, conspiracies surrounding Shakespeare the man, the difference between literature and poetics or stageplays, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Who was William Shakespeare and why is he famous?Elizabethan EnglandThese Shakespeare Conspiracies Will Blow Your MindRecorded 24 February 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the pro-Trump riots at the U.S. Capitol, during the attempt to confirm Biden's Electoral College win. They talk about social media dieting, the Georgia run-off elections, rioters breaking into the capitol building, comparisons between left-wing and right-wing protesting or rioting, justifying hypocrisy, what constitutes Americanism, the potential 'failure' of democracy, the potential of Vice President Mike Pence invoking the 25th amendment and the attempted removal of President Trump, the growing problem of polarization, how philosophical ideology informs political movements, people's loss of individuality during the riots, the parallels between how conspiracies spread and the size of civilization, the future of the Republican party, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:The Capitol Attack AftermathFacial recognition firm claims antifa infiltrated Trump protesters who stormed CapitolWashington Times corrects widely cited story claiming 'antifa' infiltrated Capitol siege, says 'neo-Nazis' ID'dDemocrats take control of the SenateUS Capitol's last breach was more than 200 years agoWhy People Believe Weird Things: Pseudoscience, Superstition, and Other Confusions of Our TimeRecorded 6 January 2021Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about the historical origins of Santa Claus and the ritual of Christmas in the West. They talk about being raised in Christian households and belief in Santa Claus, the spirit of gratitude in conflict with guilt, the power of ritual, industrialization and the rise of Christmas' popularity, the roots of paganism in nature, the origins of Saint Nicholas, miracles and sainthood, Santa's parallels with the Christian god, Kantian deontology, Black Friday and the rush for Christmas sales, demand for next generation video game consoles, pandemic economics and poverty, family and gift-giving, the distance from a ritual's origin and its contemporary destination, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 17 December 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this special, two year anniversary episode, Josh and Ian sit down to revisit Flaws in American Democracy, to give an updated look at the U. S. political landscape. They talk about the possibility of a direct democracy leading to populism, the media influence on our democracy, how the U. S. compares to the United Kingdom, the purpose and goal of modern society, the global reach of economic value, allocation of taxpayer's money, political moderation, how the Republican and Democratic parties have switched roles from their origins, Andrew Yang's "freedom dividend" and the revaluation of work, the challenges of reforming public education, the value of art and creativity for youngsters, prejudice against those whom struggle financially, building community to help one another, the problem of defining success via monetary gain, the challenge in defining human capability in navigating our global economy, and various other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 2 December 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/nbsproductions)

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about revolutions of the past, and the prospect of a forthcoming revolution within the culture. In the opening segment, they talk about past revolutions from ancient history, all the way up to the early 20th century, and the possible reasons for why revolutions take place. In the main segment, they talk about Nietzsche's "transvaluation of all values", antifa and reporting on the Portland protests, Ibram X. Kendi, antiracism and its implementation into nationwide curriculum, the salience of class above identity, gender equality in Europe and a fair society, trans-rights and gender ideology, sexual 'preference' vs. 'orientation', exploiting the trending landscape, J. K. Rowling and the accusations of transphobia, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:How did Julius Caesar rise to power?The Rise Of Julius Caesar | Tony Robinson's Romans | TimelineRevolutionary WarAmerican RevolutionThe French Revolution: Crash Course European History #21Napoleon Bonaparte: Crash Course European History #22Russian Revolution and Civil War: Crash Course European History #35The Elements Of A Successful RevolutionConditions for a Successful RevolutionOn the Genealogy of Morals (Penguin Classics)Nancy Rommelmann - ReasonWe Talk to Steve Bannon About the 2020 Election's Potential For ChaosRose City AntifaThe Torch NetworkAnti-Racism Toolkit: CurriculaTeaching Race: Pedagogy and PracticeBarrett Apologizes For Comments On Sexual ‘Preference’Jameela Jamil comes out as queer amid criticism of her role on HBO voguing showJ.K. Rowling’s latest tweet seems like transphobic BS. Her fans are heartbroken.Recorded 19 November 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian give their comments and analysis for the 2020 U.S. presidential election. They talk about the problems of social media and thought bubbles, the value of success and the pitfalls of meritocracy, equality vs. equity and opportunity vs. outcome, economic class and the problems of punching-up and down, how poor people are taken advantage of, work and taxes, the benefit of informed and responsible citizens, private vs. public education and how much money is spent on either, Trump's incompetency, the value of philosophy, voting in the 2020 election and our rights as voters, and having an honest debates and conversations.There is no segment of Read/Watch/Play this week.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Making Sense Podcast #221 - SUCCESS, FAILURE, & THE COMMON GOODKamala Harris: "There’s a big difference between equality and equity."Recorded 3 November 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ongoing series of candid conversations. They discuss the future of the podcast, the final U.S. Presidential debate of the 2020 election cycle, our own political "identities" being mistaken by others, understanding the political process, the GOP and playing the game of politics, progressives and the Left having the power to sway culture, the ability to give an honest critique of another's values, the problem of fear, the use of the word "radical" from both the Left and Right, the cultural shift in the free market, Sam Harris and the lack of challenge to his ideas and beliefs, and other topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 28 October 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In part two of this episode, Josh and Ian discuss the emotional and narrative components to the PlayStation exclusive video game, The Last of Us Pt. II. They talk about the relationship between Ellie and Dina, the controversy of Abby's character and the death of parental figures, the leaks of the game and Sony's peculiar marketing surrounding the game, the burden of revenge and the problem of empathy, the many thematic parallels between characters and factions, storytelling and narrative structure, the challenge of portraying different perspectives, tasteful sex-scenes, identity and human meaning, forgiveness and the cycle of violence, and various other topics.There is no segment of Read/Watch/Play this week.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:The Last of Us Pt. IIThe Painful Art of Empathy – Deconstructing The Last of Us: Part 2Recorded 14 October 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this bonus episode, Josh and Ian discuss an absurd political tweet in reference to the process of voting in the 2020 election cycle and beyond. They talk about the recent US Presidential debate and the potential for future debates, Ian's political public service announcement, the problem of the majority two party system in America, the Get Out The Vote movement in 2020, how individual psychology might influence political action, repeating patterns in the political landscape and polarization, elections being decided by popularity and the electoral college, taking a pragmatic or principled approach to voting, the differences between rural and urban America, how 'oppressed' groups might view elections, the influence of politicians over their respective parties, and the philosophical and moral stances that Republicans and Democrats take on social and cultural issues.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Recorded 11 October 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

This week on NBS News, Josh and Ian give commentary on the latest goings-on in the country and abroad. They talk about Judge Amy Coney Barrett being nominated as a Supreme Court Justice, Trump's tax avoidance, the hysterical first US Presidential debate between Biden and Trump, the super-spreading event that lead to Trump contracting COVID-19, and Trump being administered into a military hospital.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Trump announces Judge Amy Coney Barrett in his pick for the Supreme CourtWhat you need to know about Amy Coney BarrettLong-Concealed Records show Trump’s chronic losses and years of Tax AvoidanceUS election 2020: Recap of the first presidential debate between Donald Trump, Joe BidenHear Kamala Harris' reaction to Trump and Biden's chaotic debateSee how undecided voters reacted to first 2020 presidential debatePresident Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump test positive for Covid-19Donald Trump Admitted to Walter Reed Military Hospital, To Spend Next 'Few Days' There After COVID DiagnosisWhat is Remdesivir & How Is It Used For COVID-19?The 34 people who have tested positive in the Trump Covid outbreakRecorded 4 October 2020Released 7 October 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In part one of this episode, Josh and Ian have a detailed discussion about the overall narrative and gameplay of the PlayStation exclusive video game, The Last of Us, developed by Naughty Dog. They begin by giving a brief synopsis of the game's plot, then move into the narrative story beats that the two found had the most impact. They talk about parenthood and the loss of a child, the fragility of society, how every generation has their own crisis of meaning, living through a global pandemic, forming relationships after the 'end of the world', writing in video games, the effects of having to survive in a post-apocalypse on the human psyche, Ellie's burden of immunity, missed opportunities and saying goodbye, successful immersion within games, whether or not we can truly trust someone, the willingness to be courageous, the problem of hope in a world of despair, reliance on family, the lengths people are willing to go for the sake of survival and human relationships, the balance between childlike innocence and the development of a survival instinct, debates around the ending of the game, survivors guilt and the morality of Joel's decision to save Ellie.There is no segment of Read/Watch/Play this week.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:The Last of Us RemasteredThe Last of Us: American DreamsThe Road by Cormac McCarthyRecorded 8 & 22 September 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

This week on NBS News, Josh and Ian give commentary on the latest goings-on in the country and abroad. They talk about the recent wildfires going on in Oregon and California, the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the political implications for both Republicans and Democrats for pushing their respective agendas during the 2020 US Presidential election.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Pelosi says Democrats will 'use every arrow in our quiver' to block Trump's Supreme Court nomineeRecorded 20 September 2020Released 21 September 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ongoing series of candid conversations.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @Simpsonj423Ian @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

This week on NBS News, Josh and Ian give commentary on the latest goings-on in the country and abroad. They talk about the recent 'hair-gate' conspiracy around Nancy Pelosi, the problem of online trolling and disingenuous criticism, the progress of a potential COVID-19 vaccine, trust in Trump within the context of a pandemic, returning to the morality of the existence of billionaires and the exuberant wealth of Jeff Bezos, the difference between material and perceived worth, Governor Brown's (D-OR) plan for unifying law enforcement within the protests and riots in Portland, the killing of a member of Patriot Prayer and his killer then being killed by local authorities, the perception of the fight for justice and freedom, and the strange political moves that the United States Postal Service has made in the wake of the upcoming election.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:Pelosi's stylist claims hair appointment WAS a 'political' set up - but the salon owner denies tricking speaker and says her business is 'done' because of 'hypocrite' Democrat's demand for apologyModerna Reports 71% Enrollment in Coronavirus Vaccine TrialProtesters set up a guillotine outside Jeff Bezos’ mansionGovernor Brown releases ‘Unified Law Enforcement Plan’Police Kill Antifa Protester Who Confessed to Portland ShootingMan Linked to Killing at a Portland Protest Says He Acted in Self-DefensePostal Service police block Florida congresswoman from touring USPS plantsRecorded 5 September 2020Released 8 September 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian talk about the conspiratorial phenomenon known as QAnon. They talk about the background and emergence of "Q-Anonymous", the motivation behind conspiracy theories and this particular conspiratorial movement, the role of skepticism in our lives, faking the Moon landing, "pizzagate" and people's reaction to it, whether or not QAnon could be labeled as a genuine political movement, the "Satanic Panic" in the late 1980's and 90's, the influence of the Hollywood entertainment industry, the potential evolutionary reasons for science and conspiracy, stagnation in politics, people's misunderstanding of science, attention to the voices of the mob, how our personal temperaments and philosophies influence our perspectives on the world, the scientific method, and other points.On this week's segment of Read/Watch/Play, they talk about the Netflix series Lucifer and Dark, Amazon Prime's The Boys, Frank Herbert's Dune, the PS4 exclusive Ghost of Tsushima, and Cuphead.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Links:QAnon, the scarily popular pro-Trump conspiracy theory, explainedRNC Speaker Cancelled After Boosting QAnon Conspiracy Theory About Jewish Plot to Enslave the WorldRecorded 27 August 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

This week on NBS News, Josh and Ian give commentary on the latest goings-on in the country and abroad. They talk about Josh's future career prospects, the Trump administration approving the Department of the Interior making plans for drilling in the Alaskan Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, energy efficiency and climate change, keeping Nature and the outdoors pristine, Paul Manafort and more information coming out during the Russian Senate intelligence comity, the 2016 election and how fragile democracies truly are, New Zealand's Prime Minister postponing their 2020 elections due to a rise in COVID-19 cases, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the USPS removing letter boxes in western states, the Republican and Trump agenda during the current election cycle, the history of the U.S. Postal Service and it's increasing debt, and the efficiency of private parcel and logistic businesses compared to the USPS.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspodLinks:Trump administration finalizes drilling plan for Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife RefugeManafort was ‘grave counterintelligence threat’ due to Russian contacts, Senate panel saysNew Zealand: Jacinda Ardern delays election over coronavirus fearsUSPS will stop removing letter collection boxes in Western states until after the election, spokesman saysMeet Postmaster General Louis DeJoy: The Man At The Center of the USPS ControversyA Fight Over the Future of the Mail Breaks Down Along Familiar LinesNew postmaster general overhauls USPS leadership amid probe into mail delaysHouse passes an additional $25 billion for Postal Service as Trump tweets oppositionRecorded 22 August 2020Released 24 August 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian continue their ongoing series of candid conversations. They talk about the follies of parenthood, the name of the podcast and problem of censorship on social media, bad sunburns, the Very Bad Wizards podcast, the 'ethics' of Karenism and the potential for racism and white supremacy, the possibility of 'morality pills' and the ethics of utilitarianism, moral relativism and cultural perspectives on ethics, the perception of rights being violated, personal hygiene, Joe Biden's Vice Presidential pick of Kamala Harris, and whether or not voting third party is a viable option in the upcoming election.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspodLinks:The Violent Politics Behind Karenism‘Morality pills’ may be the US’s best shot at ending the coronavirus pandemic, according to one ethicistThe History of UtilitarianismUtilitarianismRecorded 12 August 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

In this episode, Josh and Ian speak about the limiting effects of attempting to use brute reason in the face of passionate and radical movements in our current culture. They talk about the attitude of people like Sam Harris and others within the IDW, the Conceptual Penis, the attractiveness of skepticism, the philosophical underpinnings of rationalism, the proper place for fleshing out our emotions, the rising tensions between police and protesters in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, the claims of particular ideas being deemed irrational or insane, how witnessing a violent act changes a person's perspective on cultural issues, #DefundThePolice and #BlackLivesMatter, the importance of evolution and sensory experience, religion and its significance to people's lives, the cult of personalty surrounding President Trump, the balance between reason and passion, and the problem of trying to have a rational, ongoing conversation.On this week's segment of Read/Watch/Play, they talk about Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, Dune, Vikings, Devs, Ghost of Tsushima, and Hunt: Showdown.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspodLinks:The conceptual penis as a social constructRationalismRecorded 29 July 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)

This week on NBSNews, Josh and Ian give an update on the latest news and their commentary on the latest political goings-on. They talk about the ongoing protests across the country, federal action taken against members of Antifa, the difference between protesters and rioters, the mayor of Portland, totalitarianism in North Korea, comparisons to fascism, The New York Times' 1619 Project, conspiracy theories spread by Nikole Hannah-Jones, the possibilities of a "socialist" America, and various other related topics.Follow them on Twitter at:Josh @theonlyoneblogIan @modernovermanand the podcast @NBSPodcast1Website: https://www.necessarybspod.com/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspodLinks:Tear gassing of Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler wasn’t part of the plan, staffer saysKim Jong Un Cracks Down on Outside Cultural InfluencesGOP Sen. Tom Cotton pitches bill to prohibit use of federal funds to teach 1619 ProjectThree Cheers for SocialismRecorded 25 July 2020Released 27 July 2020Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/necessarybspod)