Thoughtlines delves into a branch of philosophy that focuses on the nature of knowledge. We seek to equip listeners with the tools to critically analyze their own opinions, and we engage in thoughtful discussions with guests about their deepest beliefs. Through this exploration of how we know what we know, Thoughtlines invites a deeper understanding of human thought processes and the underlying reasons for our convictions.
In this episode, I dive into a common epistemic framework found in religious beliefs, specifically in the LDS tradition. Popular LDS speaker and author, S. Michael Wilcox, recently joined the Follow Him podcast to discuss The Book of Mormon's epistemic philosophy found in Alma chapter 32. I analyze the validity of his model, argue why it cannot determine absolute or universal truth, and discuss why I believe it is antithetical to pluralism and tolerance.
Briggs joins us to discuss important topics like The Legend of Zelda, The Hobbit, and Minecraft. He and Justin discuss the lessons we can learn about critical thinking from the favorite games & stories of a kid.
In celebration of Tolkien Reading Day (March 25th - the day that Frodo destroyed the ring) I'm reading my favorite bit of Tolkien's writing: The Voice of Saruman. You're welcome for giving your brains a break from critical thinking content this week. Find somewhere comfortable, sit back, and enjoy some great writing!
How do you know if someone is making a good argument? How do you know if your own opinion is based on solid reasoning? Here are some intellectual standards - or measuring sticks - to check how you're doing.
A few tips to help you evaluate data & see through statistical sleight of hand.
How do we find good information sources? Here are a few helpful tips.
It's been awhile so here's a quick update on the podcast + A quick tool to frame your questions when presented with something new. Follow Thoughtlines on Instragram @thoughtlines.podcast and join the conversation on the latest episode.
In this first episode of our Critical Thinking 101 series, Hannah joins us to discuss the intellectual virtues of a critical thinker as defined by critical thinking thought-leaders, Linda Elder & Richard Paul. Follow along & review the list of virtues here: Intellectual Virtues & Sources Follow us on Instagram/Threads at @theaetetus.podcast. Also, help get the word out by subscribing on your favorite podcast app & leaving a rating. Please reach out if you have questions, comments, or would like to be interviewed at theaetetuspodcast@gmail.com.
Chase Gardner joins the podcast to discuss capital punishment. Does it align with the stated goals of criminal justice? Is it moral? Join us as we discuss these questions and more. As always, if you would like to be interviewed on the podcast, email me at theaetetuspodcast@gmail.com.
Justin invites his wife, Hannah, onto the podcast to discuss one of his favorite topics: why does critical thinking matter? We cover all the bases in this one: - Where the ideas behind critical thinking originated - Why critical thinking matters for humans and society collectively - Why critical thinking should matter to individuals searching for knowledge - Why critical thinking makes us all better people - How you can integrate critical thinking to better practice your religious/spiritual beliefs As always, if you'd like to be interviewed on the show to discuss one of your beliefs with me, please email me at thoughtlines.podcast@gmail.com. Correction: I reference the Hundred Years War as part of the European Wars of Religion, but that is incorrect. The Hundred Years War happened much earlier in history and was not related to the Reformation. The war that followed as a result of the Reformation was actually the Thirty Years War.
Isabelle joins Justin again to discuss one of the central beliefs that arose during her first time on the show (Ep. 2). They discuss Isabelle's beliefs about who should determine our personal morality, refine it, and find a lot of common ground. This one is definitely worth a listen. As always, please reach out to me at theaetetuspodcast@gmail.com if you found this episode inspiring or helpful and would like to have your own conversation.
Justin revisits a video that was recently shared with him of two men arguing over the validity of the Adam and Eve story. He identifies a logical fallacy committed in the video and discusses several other common logical fallacies. You can review and print out the logical fallacies that he discusses here. If you would like to be interviewed on the show, please reach out to theaetetuspodcast@gmail.com.
Justin welcomes his first guest, Isabelle Barlow. Isabelle discusses her process of breaking down a former belief and how it fostered the development of new beliefs. Isabelle and Justin, unfortunately, had to end prematurely. But in part 2 (coming soon!), they'll spend more time critically analyzing Isabelle's conclusions and the new beliefs that grew out of this process. Stay tuned!
Justin introduces himself and the podcast. He recounts his epistemological journey that inspired the podcast and discusses the show format for the future. If you would like to be interviewed, please reach out to me at theaetetuspodcast@gmail.com.
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
