The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

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The Partially Examined Life is a philosophy podcast by some guys who were at one point set on doing philosophy for a living but then thought better of it. Each episode, we pick a short text and chat about it with some balance between insight and flippancy. You don't have to know any philosophy, or e…

Mark Linsenmayer


    • Oct 6, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 56m AVG DURATION
    • 1,158 EPISODES

    4.6 from 2,000 ratings Listeners of The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast that love the show mention: partially examined life, best philosophy podcast, interested in philosophy, pel, heidegger, interest in philosophy, love philosophy, world of philosophy, philosophize, kant, philosophy podcasts, philosophy class, lawless, philosophical topics, nietzsche, philosophers, 197, foucault, process philosophy, non academic.


    Ivy Insights

    The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast is an exceptional podcast that offers in-depth discussions on a wide range of philosophical topics. The format of the show allows multiple hosts to contribute their own unique perspectives, making for engaging and thought-provoking conversations. As a listener, I find it enlightening to hear different ideas being brought into the discussion and it enhances my understanding of the subject matter. The episode on totalitarianism was particularly eye-opening and expanded my knowledge on the topic.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its accessibility to those who may not have a formal university education in philosophy. The hosts do an excellent job at explaining complex philosophical concepts in a way that is easy to understand for beginners or those without prior knowledge. Their ability to dissect jargon and make episodes on less-mainstream topics approachable is commendable. Additionally, they provide generous readings of philosophical texts, making them more accessible and enjoyable for listeners.

    However, one potential downside of the podcast is that it may require some prior background knowledge or self-study to fully appreciate. While the hosts do a great job at breaking down concepts, listeners who are completely new to philosophy may find it challenging to grasp certain ideas without additional research or context. It would be beneficial if there were more episodes specifically designed for beginners or those looking for a more structured introduction to philosophy.

    In conclusion, The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in philosophy. The hosts' insightful discussions and ability to make complex ideas accessible make this podcast invaluable for both beginners and seasoned philosophers alike. With its diverse range of topics and knowledgeable hosts, this podcast offers a fantastic opportunity for intellectual exploration and growth.



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    Latest episodes from The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

    Ep. 377: Emil Cioran's Pessimism (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 52:02


    On A Short History of Decay (1949), a pessimist/existentialist somewhat text from the most famous Romanian philosopher. Cioran's short essays touch on art, humor, God, salvation, time, nostalgia, mourning, death, disease, suicide, revolt, freedom, Buddhism, Daoism, and the role of the philosopher. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.

    PEL Presents PvI#102: Pit of Despair w/ Seth Paskin

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2025 47:57


    Mark's Partially Examined Life co-host Seth joins us (i.e. Mark and Mary) to introduce Seth to improv and continue introducing philosophy to Mary. We discuss Seth's attraction to depressing texts, act out couples' therapy and monster beauty parlor, and open up a few philosophical cans of worms: Is truth relative? (Hint: no!) Does outer beauty reflect inner beauty? Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

    Ep. 376: Plato's "Laws" (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 52:39


    Continuing on selections from this late Platonic dialogue. Starting in Book 4, Plato's characters are discussing how to create a new state ("Magnesia") from scratch. What sorts of laws should it have? We talk about marriage laws, the nocturnal council, how the law is argued for that everyone has to believe in gods, and more. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.

    PEL Presents PMP#206: Abbott Elementary w/o Emmys

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 53:13


    For our Emmys/back-to-school episode, we cover the pinnacle of the current network sitcom landscape: The six-time 2025 Emmy nominated 4-year-old sitcom Abbott Elementary. Yes, it lost this year but has won in the past. Mark, Lawrence, Al and West-Philly-resident Sarahlyn discuss the show's Philly-ness and how it integrates cringe humor with realistic depiction of how messed up it is for schools to be so underfunded. Is this a "black show"? Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel. Sponsors: Get 50% off Claude AI Pro at Claude.ai/pmp. Try the Stuck in the '80s podcast at sit80s.com.

    PEL Presents NEM#238: Eric Andersen Endures

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 65:58


    Eric was a major figure in the 1960s NYC folk scene, and his early tunes have been covered by Bob Dylan, Judy Collins, and many others. He's released 22 solo albums plus several live albums and two albums with The Band's Rick Danko as Danko/Fjeld/Andersen. We discuss "Don't It Make You Wanna Sing the Blues" from Dance of Love and Death (2025), "Rain Falls Down in Amsterdam" from Memory of the Future (1998), and "Six Senses of Darkness" from Ghosts Upon the Road (1989). End song: "Time Run Like a Freight Train" from Stages: The Lost Album (recorded 1973). Intro: "Violets of Dawn" from 'Bout Changes and Things (1966). More at ericandersen.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. Sponsor: Visit square.com/go/nem to learn about how Square helps local businesses.

    Ep. 376: Plato's "Laws" (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 47:45


    On this later dialogue presenting Plato's ideas about the character of laws in a just state. They should all be aimed at making people virtuous, and so should include education to this end. Each law should be equipped with a prelude presenting a rational argument for why people should obey it. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.

    PREMIUM-PEL Back-to-School Nightcap 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2025 10:14


    Mark, Seth, and Dylan add some more detail and thought to our recent episodes, including more about Steven Pinker and re-litigation of the utility of Irigaray's second-wave feminism in light of the distinction between philosophical and political speech. 

    PEL Presents PvI#101: Co-Hostery: Season Five Premiere with Mark and Mary

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 54:15


    It is a new era! Merry Mary Hynes is now Mark's co-host, and we do some improv related to that and feel our the degree to which Mary has not studied philosophy. Could it be that we ALL do philosophy whether we know it or not? Also: The Feminist Café, Luce Irigaray, Mark's voice training, an aging child pop star, non-binary preliminaries, gratis post-game chatter, and more. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Sponsor: Get 15% off at MasterClass.com/IMPROV.

    Ep. 375: Luce Irigaray's Feminism (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 56:50


    Continuing on "Women on the Market" from The Sex Which Is Not One (1977) and other selections. Irigaray gives a Marxist analysis of the commodification of women, addresses psychotherapists about their neglect of women's viewpoints, recommends wonder over objectification, and interprets Hegel's comments about Antigone. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

    PEL Presents PMP#205: Fantastical Foursome

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2025 56:27


    What do we expect out of a superhero film? Does it need overqualified dramatic actors? Does it even need a real budget? Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the various films modeled after Marvel's Fantastic Four comics initiated by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1961. First Steps is clearly the best of them and surpassed our low expectations, with its delivery of a believable family dynamic and a fun retro-futurist production design. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel. Sponsors: Get 15% off an annual membership at MasterClass.com/PRETTY. Check out the That Aged Well podcast.

    Ep. 375: Luce Irigaray's Feminism (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 44:38


    On The Sex Which Is Not One (1977) and other Irigaray selections from the French Feminism Reader (2000), featuring guest Jenny Hansen (who wrote the introduction to the book chapter). What role should sexual difference play in philosophy and society? Irigaray qua second-wave feminist claims that unleashing the feminine can and should transform philosophy, public policy, and relationships. Check out the America Dissected podcast. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

    feminism luce irigaray america dissected
    PEL Presents PvI#100: Maximizing Turtle Revenue w/ Tim Sniffen and Anthony LeBlanc

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2025 50:10


    It's our season finale, and the end of Bill's regular participation on the show. You may wish to weep, but let your tears be of joy as well as reminiscence. We are re-joined by two of our favorite improv guests for a Team Play episode to talk ship of Theseus, philosophy vs. mythology vs. video games, Renaissance contemporaries, long-lived turtles, "realist" morality, goodbyes, and our final boardroom scene. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

    Ep. 374: Discussing Liberalism (Lincoln, et al) with Walter Sterling (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 48:50


    Continuing our discussion of the dangers to and weak points of liberal democracy, including consideration of Patrick Deneen's Why Liberalism Failed (2018) Francis Fukuyama's "Liberalism and Its Discontents" (his 2020 essay), and Steven Pinker's Enlightenment Now (2018). Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

    PEL Presents PMP#204: Naked Gun Rapid Firing

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2025 50:00


    What is the state of the stream-of-gags formula that used to stand tall in the films of the Zucker Brothers (mainly Airplane) and Mel Brooks? A new generation attempts to revive that with a new Naked Gun film. How does this new effort relate to the classic films? Are these kinds of films particularly timeless? Rewatchable? Do young people appreciate this kind of thing? Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and (for the third or so) Al speculate wildly as usual. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel.

    PEL Presents NEM#237: Maia Sharp's Homey Subversion

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 77:00


    Maia has released ten lush, Americana-influenced singer-songwriter albums since 1997 and has collaborated with artists like Art Garfunkel, Bonnie Raitt, and Trisha Yearwood, and been covered by Cher, Paul Carrack, etc. We discuss "Counterintuition" (and listen to the title track) from Tomboy (2025), "Phoenix" from The Dash Between the Dates (2015), and "A Home" from Fine Upstanding Citizen (2005) (co-written with her father Randy Sharp and popularized in a cover version by The Chicks). Intro: "I Need This to Be Love" from Hardly Glamour (1997). More at maiasharp.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/NAKEDLY to take control of your health through testing and get $100 off your membership.

    Ep. 374: Discussing Liberalism (Lincoln, et al) with Walter Sterling (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 46:38


    What's the crisis of liberal democracy? Dylan, Wes and Seth are joined by St. John's College President J. Walter Sterling to discuss Abraham Lincoln's "On the Perpetuation of Our Political Institutions" (1838) plus the beginnings of Steven Pinker's Enlightenment Now (2018), Patrick Deneen's Why Liberalism Failed (2018), and Francis Fukuyama's "Liberalism and Its Discontents" (the 2020 essay). Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.  Enrollment is now open for Mark's online political philosophy course. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents Closereads: Peter Railton's "Moral Realism" (Wrap Up)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 58:05


    We are concluding our treatment of Peter Railton's "Moral Realism" (1984), and given that you likely haven't listened to the seven preceding parts, this discussion can serve as a standalone summary of not only Railton's view, but of the best efforts of Mark and Wes to actually figure out what a plausible naturalistic, empirical account of ethics could amount to. You can consider this a conclusion to our recent PEL episode series on meta-ethics. Read along with us, starting on PDF p. 42. Sign up to support Closereads at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy to get all parts of this discussion plus lots more content. Get all public Closereads episodes (including part one of this series) at closereadsphilosophy.com or on YouTube.

    PEL Presents PvI#99: Philosophy of Humor w/ Nessa Voss

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 53:14


    Nessa teaches philosophy at Lone Star Community College and writes on the philosophy of humor. We thought we should get this topic out before we wrap our season (and Bill's regular participation) and reach 100 episodes. We go through the main theories (superiority, incongruity/surprise, unconscious triggering, i.e. funny because it's true on some level we don't necessarily want to admit). Then Nessa (fictionally) becomes our podcast format consultant. We wrap up by considering the appeal of various stand-up comedians. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

    Announcement: Mark's "Foundational Political Philosophy Texts" Fall 2025 Class

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 4:44


    I bet you'd like to have an excuse to read some Aristotle, and Locke, Rousseau, Simone Weil, and other fun texts. Well, go read about this opportunity at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class, and then follow the link to enroll. Not sure? Watch a sample (a full seminar from last semester on Plato) of what such a class is really like.

    Ep. 373: Michael Walzer on Just Wars (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 60:51


    Continuing on on Just and Unjust Wars (1977), ch. 5-6. When might it be morally permissible to strike first? When is it permissible (or obligatory?) to intervene in another country's internal affairs militarily? We discuss Walzer's historical examples and apply his theories to current wars. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Enrollment is now open for Mark's online political philosophy course. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents PMP#203: What Superman?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 49:30


    In light of the new James Gunn film Superman, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the character, his stories, and past films and shows. Did Zack Snyder (Man of Steel) miss the point? Are the Richard Donner films (chiefly 1978's Superman: The Movie) as good as nostalgia would have us recall them? How does one write a convincing plot centered around a flawless, basically all-powerful hero? How should the Lex Luthor character fit in? Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel.

    PEL Presents NEM #236: Tee Templeton's Psychedelic Ending

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 72:24


    ...OK, maybe not his ending, but it's a late career boost into overdrive: This 66-year-old has been making music since the '80s, but you're only going to find two of his releases on the streaming services right now, and only this new album (released 20 years after the previous one) has the polish to count as a world-conquering, professional release. We discuss two songs from this new album Diner of Doubt: "My Dead Friend," and "I Have a Lotta Dreams," plus "Build Another One" (and the intro, "Chinese Lights") from Might Could Have (2004). End song: "Oh Dee Oh Oh" (2023). More at teetempleton.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/NAKEDLY to take control of your health through testing and get $100 off your membership. Check out The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers for discussion of classic albums with cool guests.

    Philosophy vs. Improv #98: Ragnarocking

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 52:31


    Recorded back in June, posting now as we near the end of our season and Bill's tenure on the show, this episode now bleeds with dramatic irony. Mark and Bill discuss how to give a good speech, AI in academics, and we have a tear-stained visit to Empty Street. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

    Ep. 373: Michael Walzer on Just Wars (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 47:22


    On Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument With Illustrations (1977), ch. 4-6 on "jus ad bellum," which refers to moral justifications for going to war. Self-defense is permissible while aggression is not, but this leaves many questions unanswered, and Walzer gives us many historical examples to consider. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Check out Richard Dawkins' The Poetry Of Reality Podcast at thepoetryofreality.com. Enrollment is now open for Mark's online political philosophy course. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents PMP#202: 50-Year-Old Jaws Busts Our Block

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 53:36


    Purported the first summer blockbuster, Jaws has now hit 50 years, and so we discuss this wonderful early Spielberg film, its ill-conceived sequels, some of the making-of docs, and the legacy of shark/big carnivore films that it spawned. Is the film as flawless as it's made out to be? Are the sequels as awful as typically described? Mark. Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss! Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel.

    Ep. 372: Kant's Ethics Lectures (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 47:24


    Continuing on the 1785 course lecture notes by Georg Ludwig Collins. We cover duties to oneself, which are actually the most important ones. There are some interesting subtleties even though Kant is clearly a creature of his time and place, e.g. in his views of sexuality. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Visit IDOU.com/PEL for 15% off online courses on using AI in creative, human-centered ways. Learn about Mark's online political philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents NEM#235: Willie Nile's Poetic Rock Anthems

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 73:35


    New York singer-songwriter Willie has released sixteen albums since 1980. He has opened for The Who and Bruce Springsteen, among others, but rejected the major label life after his first two albums. We discuss "An Irish Goodbye" (feat. Paul Brady) from The Great Yellow Light (2025) (and listen at the end to "Wake Up, America" feat. Steve Earle from that album), "Cell Phones Ringing (In the Pockets of the Dead)" from Streets of New York (2006), and the title track from Places I Have Never Been (1991). Intro: "Vagabond Moon" from Willie Nile (1980). Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/NAKEDLY to take control of your health through testing and get $100 off your membership.

    Ep. 372: Kant's Ethics Lectures (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 49:04


    We discuss lecture notes from Kant's 1785 ethics course, which provide more examples and an emphasis on the practical than his more famous works. For instance, we get more information on ethical motivation: How can the rational recognition of ethical principles lead to moral feelings? Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Learn about Mark's online political philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents PvI#97: Peep Dome Pets w/ Merry Mary Hynes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2025 60:16


    LA Second City improv instructor Mary joins us to act out a pet sitting job interview, talk about sharing our public spaces with animals, and finally return to Empty Street to see if we can get some animal action going in the mart. In the post-game, we talk about Bill's new academic studies and Mark's upcoming Gen Con trip. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Sponsors: Don't wait until the next bite -- protect your home with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discountBUZZ10 to save 10% off. Go to surfshark.com/improv or use code IMPROV at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!

    PEL Presents PMP#201: John Wick Minus Wick

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 52:30


    In light of the new film Ballerina, we discuss the John Wick franchise that kicked off in 2014 with four films plus a (bad) Peacock TV show. We also watched the recent documentary Wick Is Pain. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al are joined by Brian Casey to mostly talk about the main four films in the series: They have a formula, but is that bad? Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for this and nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop for only the tiniest per-month financial pledge, or you can sign up directly with Apple Podcasts for a subscription for ad-free and bonus material for three of Mark's podcasts together on the Mark Lintertainment Podcasts Channel.

    Ep. 371: Christine Korsgaard on Normativity (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 55:57


    Concluding our treatment of The Sources of Normativity. We give Korsgaard's tweaks to Kant, including her distinction between the categorical imperative and the moral law. We then explain her reference to Wittgenstein's private language argument in her argument that reason-giving, and hence morality, can't be merely self-referential. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a supporter-exclusive Nightcap comparing Korsgaard to Foot. Sponsors: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Learn about Mark's online political philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents NEM#234: John Kruth the Multi-Hyphenate

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 92:11


    Not only is John a multi-instrumentalist who's played with Violent Femmes, Allen Ginsberg, Hal Willner, John Prine, et al, but he's released around 24 albums as a solo artist or with groups including the NYC world music outfit TriBeCaStan. We discuss "(Be Careful What You Say to) An Armed Lady" by Folklorkestra from A Strange Day in June (2023), the title track from Forever Ago (with La Societe; del Musici) (2018), "Bed Bugs" by TriBeCaStan from New Deli (2012), and listen to "Back Country" by The Electric Chairmen from Toast (1995). Intro: "Grim Reaper's Song" from Midnight Snack (1986). More at kruthworks.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/NAKEDLY to take control of your health through testing and get $100 off your membership.

    Ep. 371: Christine Korsgaard on Normativity (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 47:43


    On lectures 3 and 4 of The Sources of Normativity (1996), where we get Korsgaard's positive view on how morality becomes obligatory for an individual, which has to do with identity, reason-giving, and our fundamentally social nature. And yet, her view is an interpretation of Kant! Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsors: Don't wait until the next bite—protect your home with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discount/BUZZ10 to save 10%. Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health. Learn about Mark's online political philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

    PEL Presents PvI#96: We Allege Humor w/ Mark Schiff & Daniel Lobell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 52:39


    Mark Schiff is a legendary stand-up who currently podcasts with friend-of-PEL and philosophy enthusiast, Daniel Lobell as We Think It's Funny. These gents join Mark and Bill to talk about stand-up vs. improv, comedy LPs, waterless urinals, bad press, the path to enlightenment, and how to get rid of syphilis. We run a scene on hiring entertainment for the company party, and engage in some riffs that can only be called improv. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Sponsor: Go to surfshark.com/improv or use code IMPROV at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!

    Ep. 370: Christine Korsgaard on the History of Ethics (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 49:24


    We dive further into the text of lectures 1 and 2 of The Sources of Normativity (1996). We give Korsgaard's account of the idea of reflective endorsement through Hume and Bernard Williams to get to her own view. When you come to know the origins of your moral sentiments, do you still stand behind them? Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Learn more about Mark's fall online political philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Sponsor: Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.

    PEL Presents #200: Hollywood Studio Antics (feat. The Studio and Erica Spyres)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2025 57:55


    In immediate reaction to the Apple TV+ Seth Rogan show The Studio, we talk about Hollywood's obsession with itself and how studio dynamics interfere with what exactly we all get to see. Also, what's with the fascination with old Hollywood? What's the appeal of Hollywood gossip? Erica our first-season co-host returns to join Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al. For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel. If you enjoy our show, check out the All the Right Movies podcast.

    Ep. 370: Christine Korsgaard on the History of Ethics (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 48:26


    On The Sources of Normativity (1996), lectures 1 and 2. How are facts related to obligations? We don't want to merely explain our moral impulses, but justify them. Korsgaard walks us through the views of Hobbes, Hume, Bernard Williams and others to arrive at her own breed of Kantianism, which we'll lay out in ep. 371. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Don't wait until the next bite—protect your home with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discount/BUZZ10 to save 10%.

    PEL Presents NEM#233: Jorma Kaukonen (Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna) Is Not Taking This for Granted

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2025 73:00


    This famed finger-style guitarist broke through with Jefferson Airplane's seven albums from 1966-1972, recorded eight with Hot Tuna 1970-1976 (with subsequent reunions by both bands), recorded his first solo album in 1974 and then 10 more from 1981-2025, and has collaborated with John Hurlburt, members of the Grateful Dead, and Janice Joplin. We discuss "In My Dreams" from Ain't in No Hurry (2015), "Been So Long" from River of Time (2009), "Sleep Song" by Hot Tuna from America's Choice (1975). End song: "Hesitation Blues" from Reno Road: Unreleased Tracks from the 60s (1960). Intro: "Embryonic Journey" from Jefferson Airplane's Surrealistic Pillow (1967). More at jormakaukonen.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon. If you enjoy our show, check out the All the Right Movies podcast.

    PEL Presents PvI#95: The Techucational Edge w/ Khafiz and Nicholas from Invasive Thoughts

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 63:36


    Khafiz Kerimov and Nicholas Bellinson teach at St. John's College, and they channeled the educational style of that school into a new podcast called Invasive Thoughts. They join Mark and Bill to talk (and act) about various educational technologies, teacher-student relations, circle-drawing competitions, the passivity of thinking, bad quotation use, and more. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Sponsors: Go to surfshark.com/improv or use code IMPROV at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Don't wait until the next bite—protect your home with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discountBUZZ10 to save 10% off.

    Pretty Much Pop #199: Missioning Impossibly

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 57:29


    On the eight-film action series that launched in 1996 (based on the 1966 TV series) in light of its apparently final film. Featuring Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al. Is this a coherent narrative as the last film would have you believe, or just an excuse for a series of Tom Cruise physically challenges? Maybe the latter is enough for us! For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

    Ep. 369: Philippa Foot's Naturalistic Ethics (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 47:05


    Continuing on Natural Goodness, getting more into concrete cases of moral reasoning. How and why do we decide to keep promises, even in cases where violating them would produce more utility? How do we take into account different kinds of grounds in moral reasoning? Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.  Sponsor: Visit IDOU.com/PEL for 15% off online courses on using AI in creative, human-centered ways.

    PEL Presents PvI#94: Storifying Philosophy w/ Kolby Granville

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 61:25


    Kolby runs After Dinner Conversations, which curates short stories about philosophy. He's also been a "producer" of improv shows. We talk about what makes a story philosophical, Kolby tells some stories, and we run some scenes about teleporter shenanigans and guidance counseling. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Sponsor: Go to surfshark.com/improv or use code IMPROV at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!

    PEL Presents NEM#232: Chris Church Refines Power Pop

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 77:48


    Chris has around 20 releases since 1991, mostly under his own name, while moonlighting as a metal guy and otherwise collaborating. We discuss "She Looks Good in Black" from Obsolete Path (2025), "Intransitive Proverb" from Limitations of the Source Tape (2017), and "Angel Be Mine" from Your Own Chosen Speed (2001). End song: "Sisiphus" by Däng from Tartarus: The Darkest Realm (2014). Intro: "Every Time" by Flat Earth from Prefacipice (1991). More at chrischurch1.bandcamp.com Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

    Ep. 369: Philippa Foot's Naturalistic Ethics (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 47:46


    On Natural Goodness (2001). Can we base ethics on the model of biology? Foot argues that just as we understand what a healthy specimen of a plant or animal is, so there is a natural way for humans to work properly, which will include the ability to will according to reflective reasoning. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

    Ep. 368: Hume on Reason in Ethics (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 49:13


    We conclude our discussion of A Treatise of Human Nature (1739): Book III, "Of Morals," plus a bit more discussion of An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (1751).  How do moral sentiments fit into Hume's overall philosophy of mind? Is Hume a relativist? We talk about sociopaths, animals, incest, consent, ethics vs. beauty, moral luck, and more. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

    PEL Presents PMP#198: Andor: Grown-Up Star Wars

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2025 50:16


    Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss Tony Gilroy's Star Wars Disney+ two-season TV show. Should this actually be a Star Wars show given how different in tone it was? The show adds meat (and banality!) to the evil of the Empire and the rough life of a rebel. We talk characters, themes, settings, and all that other literary stuff. For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

    PEL Presents PvI#93: Poetry Stands its Ground w/ Shannon Bass and Audrey Kohler

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 47:36


    Shannon the philosopher and Audrey the poet are Seattle improv buddies that form a duo called Closer to Clarity that uses improv to answer audience members' big life questions (BLQs). Hear philosophy and poetry face off and mind meld and do-si-do as we play through two wacky corporate office scenes and return once again to Empty Street™ for an attempted gas station poetry open mic. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

    Ep. 368: Hume on Reason in Ethics (Part One)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 44:56


    We talk a bit more about David Hume's An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (1751), and add some parts of A Treatise of Human Nature (1739): sec. 3 "Of the Influencing Motives of the Will" within the third part of Book II, "Of the Passions," and the first two sections of Book III, "Of Morals." Can reason by itself motivate moral action? Hume says no: All ethical reasons must point ultimately to sentiments, which we can generalize about, but which are epistemically basic. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

    PEL Presents PMP#197: Medically Dramatic

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 54:32


    Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss The Pitt and other medical dramas like ER, Gray's Anatomy, ad nauseam.  Doctors and patients grappling with life and death stakes seems a strong premise for drama, but how many of these shows do we need? We talk about the gore, the pacing, the characters, the politics, and the other considerations that make The Pitt a great show (at this point). For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear this ad-free with bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

    Ep. 367: Hume on the Foundations of Ethics (Part Two)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 46:19


    Continuing on An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (1751), talking about justice (i.e. property laws), why utility is pleasing and what all it includes, sympathy, utility vs. beauty, and more. Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

    PEL Presents NEM#231: Bill Champlin (ex-Chicago) Sings of Love Just to Find It

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2025 75:49


    Bill released 8 albums from 1969-1977 with Sons of Champlin then moved to LA to become a solo artist and session musician, co-writing two Grammy-winning tunes. He was the designated soul singer in Chicago from 1981-2009 and released several solo albums starting in 1990 while continuing to collaborate widely. We discuss "Alone" from Livin' for Love (2021), the title track from He Started to Sing (1995), and "Right On" by Sons of Champlin from Welcome to the Dance (1973). End song: "Plaid" by Chicago from Stone of Sisyphus (1992). Intro: "Please Hold On" from Chicago 17 (1984). Learn more at billchamplin.com. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

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