The Partially Examined Life

Ep. 393: Kant vs. Hegel (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:10:00 +0000

Concluding our treatment of Ch. 2 of Hegel's Faith and Knowledge (1802). Hegel wants to connect various ideas in Kant: The idea of an "intuitive, achetypal intellect" which we have to refer to in explaining biology, the synthesizing imagination that makes experience possible, and the unknown agency that makes things-in-themselves suitable for processing by our knowledge faculties and vice versa.

For Hegel, these things all point to Reason as both the way we know God and the activity of God Himself: Hegelian Reason is the bringing together of seemingly opposite things, and so underlying our minds must be some greater kind of mind that brings together mind and world to create experience.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Don't get caught running yesterday's security on today's web: visit nordlayer.com/browser. 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 NEM#254: Teddy Thompson Gets Off the Sofa

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:15:00 +0000

The golden-voiced son on Richard and Linda is more tied to '50s/'60s rock and country than he his to his parents' folk influences, and he's recorded ten albums of tuneful, straightforward but highly idiosyncratic rock and country tunes since 2000.

We discuss "Come Back" (and listen at the end to "So This Is Heartache") from Never Be the Same (2026), "Move At Speed" from Heartbreaker Please (2020), and "I Should Get Up" from Separate Ways (2006). Intro: "In My Arms" from A Piece of What You Need (2008). More at teddythompson.net.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

PEL Presents PMP#223: What Is Star Wars Now?

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:41:00 +0000

In light of The Mandalorian and Grogu (and the Disney+ Darth Maul cartoon), we (Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al) check back in with Star Wars. Is it now "just another franchise"? Does the movie meet expectations? What's the right volume of Star Wars media? Are the cartoons good? What variety of creators and genres is there room for? Should anyone bother with the books and comics?

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Ep. 393: Kant vs. Hegel (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 03:54:00 +0000

Continuing on Ch. 2 of Hegel's Faith and Knowledge (1802) , plus some of the material being critiqued from Kant's Critique of Judgment (1790), chiefly sec. 76 and 77.

Kant's third critique is not just about beauty but about apprehending nature, and he claims that as humans, we can only understand natural objects by seeing them as purposive (i.e. teleologically): An organism has a healthy state that it is designed to aim at. While Kant can't use the classical Design argument to thus argue that we know that God exists qua designer, he argues that as a practical matter, we must regard such a designer as present. Hegel argues that this is one of many points where Kant should stop dithering and just admit that his project involves Reason actually knowing theological facts.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about PEL Live in Madison July 11 at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

PEL Presents PvI#118: Aphoristically w/ Andrea Roccella

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Mark and Mary are joined by Andrea, an Italian teacher with a broad performing background who's written a book of philosophical, poetic aphorisms called Think Town: self-help reflections and directives about fear, ego, happiness, etc.

There's a long history of aphorisms in philosophy, and philosophy invented the self-help genre, but how does philosophy work given the lack of argumentation?

We explore the monster under the bed, AI agents, making philosophy personally applicable, being receptive, DOT ego secretions, and more.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

PEL Presents Closereads: Horkheimer and Adorno on The Odyssey (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 22:49:00 +0000

We read part of The Dialectic of Enlightenment (1944), specifically the parts about Homer's epic as an allegory for the merely apparent triumph of modernism (capitalism, instrumental reason) over myth (savagery, magical thinking).

Subscribe to Closereads (and get a link to this text to read along) at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy; follow us there via the free tier to part two and many other episodes like this one ad free, or pay us to get parts 2-5 and everything else we've recorded. (Alternatively, support both PEL and Closereads at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife for a nice combo deal.)

Ep. 392: Early Hegel Elevates Reason (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 03:04:00 +0000

Continuing on Faith and Knowledge (1802), Ch. 1 and 2. We start off by discussing how beauty might give us a window into things-in-themselves according to the Romantics, who were in part following Kant's lead. Also, what version of the ontological argument for the existence of God does Hegel believe? We try to figure out what Hegel is praising in Kant's positing of synthetic a priori claims, and yet how he thinks Kant didn't understand the implications of this view.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Don't get caught running yesterday's security on today's web: visit nordlayer.com/browser. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

NEM#253: Synth-Scaper Richard Barbieri (Japan, Porcupine Tree)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 31 May 2026 17:11:00 +0000

Richard played with art-rock band Japan from 1975 through their five albums, then continued to collaborate with members of that group, releasing several increasingly atmospheric albums as Jansen-Barbieri, Jansen-Barbieri-Karn, Rain Tree Crow, et al. He joined Porcupine Tree in 1995 and has played on their 20+ albums, and began putting out ambient solo releases in 2004 (perhaps seven albums' worth to this point) while continuing to collaborate.

We discuss "A New Simulation" from Hauntings (2026), "All Fall Down" from Stranger Inside (2008), and "Sleepers Awake" by Jansen-Barbieri from Stone to Flesh (1995). End song: "Waiting to Be Born" by Steve Hogarth and Richard Barbieri, recorded 2015 and released in 2023. Intro: "The Experience of Swimming" by Japan, from Gentlemen Take Polaroids (1980). More at richardbarbieri.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

PEL Presents PMP#222: Lordlings of the Flies

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 28 May 2026 21:33:00 +0000

In light of the new, well-acted and well-shot BBC/Netflix adaptation, we discuss William Golding's 1954 novel Lord of the Flies and its previous (1963, 1991) adaptations. Featuring Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al.

What do we think of the updates made for this retelling? Its pacing? Its repeated close-up shots of kids' silent faces? Is this per usual obviously inferior to the novel, or does it actually present deeper characters and a more visceral presentation of their degradation?

Sponsor: Get started with Claude AI at claude.ai/pmp.

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Ep. 392: Early Hegel Elevates Reason (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 May 2026 04:33:00 +0000

On Faith and Knowledge (1802), Ch. 1 and 2. Famously, Kant critiqued Reason to effectively forbid theology and metaphysics, and a young G.W.F. Hegel was not happy about that. He argues against the reduction of Reason to merely applying to the realm of experience, which makes religion merely a subjective, insubstantial matter. Hegel thought he could do better.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Don't get caught running yesterday's security on today's web: visit nordlayer.com/browser. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PREMIUM-Ep. 391: Habermas Defends Modernity (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 May 2026 04:44:00 +0000

Your four hosts review the critiques of modernity, try to figure out where Kant fits in, and then discuss Habermas' characterization of Nietzsche's anti-Enlightenment project.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents PvI#117: Mark and Mary in the Triboobal Aftermath

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 21 May 2026 20:44:00 +0000

We are REELING from our REDACTED episode, and so we talk about the lessons we learned from that and start thinking about what it is to be out of one's comfort zone: how do fear and ego issues interact? Is playfulness a lack of professionalism? Are both arrogance and humility products of fear?

Plus, cutting-edge surgery reality shows, Schrödinger's hostile cat and Dr. Brenda's sentient food samples, Bishop Jim vs. Trudy the Innocent, and more!

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Ep. 391: Habermas Defends Modernity (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 May 2026 03:30:00 +0000

Continuing on on The Philosophical Discourse of Modernity, Ch. 1, 2, and 5 with guest John Ganz. We further discuss Habermas' characterizations of Hegel's take on modernity and eventually get to Adorno and Horkheimer, whose dismissals of modernity Habermas thinks go too far.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion. including a supporter-only part three to this episode.

PEL Presents PMP#221: Streep Does Prada

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 15 May 2026 22:46:00 +0000

We discuss the career of Meryl Streep in light of The Devil Wears Prada 2, insofar as we (Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al) have a hold of it; she's been in over 65 films! Is she really the best actor on the planet? Did Prada need a sequel?

We all brought in our own experiences with her catalog, touching on Sophie's Choice, Kramer vs. Kramer, A Cry in the Dark, Adaptation, The Iron Lady, Death Becomes Her, Postcards From the Edge, Doubt, The Laundromat, Let Them All Talk, Florence Foster Jenkins, et al.

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Ep. 391: Habermas Defends Modernity (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 May 2026 12:03:00 +0000

On Jürgen Habermas' The Philosophical Discourse of Modernity (1985), featuring guest John Ganz.

Habermas defines modernity as Enlightenment ideals, discusses what's wrong with them (subjectivity), how Hegel argues constructively that a social element needs to be added this this, and how many other critics (e.g. Adorno, Nietzsche, and Foucault) instead argue more destructively against Enlightenment values like Truth, liberty, and justice.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Check out the Scribe Optimize Workflow AI platform at Scribe.how/PEL. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents NEM#252: Folk Legend Tom Paxton

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 09 May 2026 06:02:00 +0000

Tom was an integral member of the Greenwich Village early '60s folk scene (playing originals regularly before Bob Dylan did). His tunes have been covered by Dylan, Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Harry Belafonte, and many others. He received a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2009.

We talk about "Rebel Gal" from Together Again (2026) (a collaborative album with John McCutcheon), "If the Poor Don't Matter" from Redemption Road (2015), "Mr. Blue" from Morning Again (1968), and "The Death of Stephen Biko" (with Anne Hills and Bob Gibson) from Best of Friends (live in 1984, released in 2004; the song was originally recorded for Heroes, 1978). Intro: "I Can't Help But Wonder Where I'm Bound" from Rambin' Boy (1964). More at tompaxton.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Ep. 390: Diderot Debates a Cynic (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 May 2026 03:32:00 +0000

Continuing on Rameau's Nephew, getting further into Rameau's philosophy and practices and trying to figure out what this anti-hero can tell us about ethics, given that he displays the virtue of being candid about his own vices.

We talk about "trade idioms" (unethical practices that we consider normal), education, and music. How does this reading relate to Hegel (who quotes it directly)?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Don't get caught running yesterday's security on today's web: visit nordlayer.com/browser. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Ep. 390: Diderot Debates a Cynic (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 03:15:00 +0000

On Denis Diderot's Rameau's Nephew, a dialogue written in the 1760s. Is virtue necessary for happiness, or in the real world, is vice necessary to get by? Diderot's character Rameau argues the latter: that philosophical morality is problematic, and our imperative is prudence, which in Rameau's case involves a lot of clownish deception and (ironically) truth-telling.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Don't get caught running yesterday's security on today's web: visit nordlayer.com/browser. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#220: Peaky Blinders: Gangs of Birmingham

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 14:58:00 +0000

We discuss Steven Knight's six-seasons-and-a-movie historical crime show Peaky Blinders, featuring Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al. Does the show live up to its initial excellence? It's got a great emotional premise (post-WWI PTSD), and there's a ridiculous amount of gravitas among the cast, but do the heists undermine this heft?

It's OK if you haven't seen the show; we hold off on spoilers for quite a while and warn you when we reach that point.

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Sponsor: Get started with Claude AI at claude.ai/pmp.

NEM#251: Dr. Alan Williams (Birdsong at Morning)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 17:04:00 +0000

Alan released two albums with folk-rock band Knots and Crosses in the early 90s, put out one solo album, then became a recording engineer and earned a PhD in ethnomusicology. He released three albums between 2010-2019 fronting Birdsong at Morning and put out two more solo albums.

We discuss "Just Like Water" (and listen at the end to "Somewhere There's a Train") from Floating on the Dreamline (2026), "The Great Escape" by Birdsong at Morning from A Slight Departure (2015), and the title track to Curve of the Earth (1993) by Knots and Crosses. Intro: "Neon Dreaming," originally from Evidence (1994). More at alanwilliamsevidence.com.

Sponsor: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/nem.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Ep. 389: Hegel on Wealth and Power (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 03:16:00 +0000

Concluding on "Culture and its Realm of Actuality," in Hegel's Phenomenology via sections 519-526.

We get into some of the ironic psychology here: In giving loyalty to the king, the nobles actually boost themselves qua givers. They should be grateful to the king to get wealth back from him, but being dependent on the king makes them resentful. The result is duplicitous people resenting those they claim to esteem, and moral language that is thus used inconsistently (the king is "good" when praised by "bad" when resented), which encourages jaded moral nihilism.

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents PvI#116: Full Bird Mode w/ BJ Lange

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 16:14:00 +0000

BJ is an LA improviser/actor/TV host (who teaches wounded warriors among others), and he chats with Mark and Mary about migratory patterns, TV shows that date you, how to draw in students, the realness of birds, and playing unsafe characters.

Scenes include a forced-Fargo college experience, improv class on the roof, spying on birds, and keyboard warriors. Plus Marge and Larry.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

PEL Presents PMP#219: Weir-ed Sci Fi: Hail Mary and The Martian

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:34:00 +0000

We discuss the hard sci-fi film Project Hail Mary, which along with The Martian (2015) was based on a novel by Andy Weir and adapted by Drew Goddard. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al consider how hard we actually like our sci-fi, the directors of these films (by Lord/Miller and Ridley Scott respectively), how the books got adapted, Weir's other work (Artemis, some webcomics, etc.), and more. How does Weir make a series of scientific problems into an actual, enjoyable plot?

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 389: Hegel on Wealth and Power (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:20:00 +0000

Continuing on Hegel's Phenomenology, "Spirit" chapter, now up to sections 511-526, which finishes off the sub-section of "Self-Alienated Spirit" called "Culture and its Realm of Actuality."

Whereas in our last discussion, obeying the state (public power) ran counter to hoarding wealth (private power), at this stage, the two converge, because the state gets concentrated in a single monarch who both receives our power and doles out wealth to his supporters. So putting your effort into obtaining private wealth ironically requires surrendering your agency (and hence wealth) to the state.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Go to NerdWallet.com/PEL for trustworthy small business loans. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/pel.

PEL Presents NEM#250: Bill Pritchard the Tourist

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 19:28:00 +0000

Bill is a singer/songwriter who recorded five albums of catchy tunes between 1989 and 1991, then retired but came back a vengeance in 2014. He's now just released his 13th album, Haunted, and we talk about "Perpetual Tourist" and listen at the end to the title track from that, "Trentham" from A Trip to the Coast (2014) and "Pigalle on a Tuesday is Charming" from Parce Que (1988). Intro: "Tommy & Co," from Three Months, Three Weeks and Two Days (1989). More at billprichardmusic.com.

Sponsor: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/nem.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

PEL Presents Closereads: Kierkegaard on Subjective Knowledge

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:42:00 +0000

On an excerpt from Soren Kierkegaard's Concluding Unscientific Postscript (1846) that critiques Hegel's idea of logic (dialectic) and then argues for his own conception of "truth as subjectivity."

Subscribe to Closereads (and get a link to this text to read along) at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy; follow us there via the free tier to part two and many other episodes like this one ad free, or pay us to get parts 3-5 and everything else we've recorded. (Alternatively, support both PEL and Closereads at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife for a nice combo deal.)

Ep. 388: Hegel on Culture (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:24:00 +0000

Continuing on the "Spirit" chapter (more specifically. "Culture and its realm of actuality") in Hegel's Phenomenology, now covering sec. 490-510. How exactly does the process of acculturation work?

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 PvI#115: Mary and Mark Astro-Logically

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 15:24:00 +0000

In this pitched, high-stakes battle, your hosts have it out about astrological biases, doing offensive accents, letting go of control in an improv scene, and group-based restrictions on who you feel you date.

Does Jesus have time to appear on your toast? Are all TV characters robots in a shared robot universe? Are zodiac signs based on serial killer characteristics? How does Pluto FEEL about not being a planet any more? So many vital questions definitively addressed in one meditation together...

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Ep. 388: Hegel on Culture (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 03:42:00 +0000

Continuing on Hegel's Phenomenology, "Spirit" chapter, now up to sections 484-510, which is the first part of "Self-Alienated Spirit. Culture."

In Hegel's ongoing semi-mythical story about the development of the modern self and society, we're now at a point where people are "bare persons," legally recognized but not distinguished from each other. We thicken these thin selves using cultural contents: your profession, your group memberships, your style, etc. But this way of individuating is fundamentally self-alienating: these ways that we identify ourselves are foreign to our souls!

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents NEM#249: Kavus Torabi Now Leads Gong

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Kavus began in dual-guitar London math-rock bands in the '90s, joined The Cardiacs for their final lineup. His band Knifeworld released the first of its four albums in 2009, he released solo albums in 2020 and 2024, and since 2014 he has released six albums with legacy prog-rock band Gong. He has also released four studio albums with electronica band The Utopia Strong since 2019.

We discuss "Stars in Heaven" by Gong from Bright Spirit Haulix (2026), "Send Him Seaworthy" by Knifeworld from The Unraveling (2014), "You Broke My Fall" by Kavus Torabi from Hip to the Jag (2020), and "Wise Guy" by The Monsoon Bassoon, a 1998 single. Intro: "Ditzy Scene" by The Cardiacs, a 2007 single eventually released on LSD (2025).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

PEL Presents: PMP#218: All the "Scream"-ing

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:28:00 +0000

We talk about the Scream meta-slasher film franchise, from the original Wes Craven /Kevin Williamson 1996 debut starring Neve Campbell, and Courtney Cox to the new one (#7), still with three out of four of those participants (Wes Craven being dead).

Is the self-reflection about the horror genre in these films actually elevating, or just a permission structure to enjoy the base pleasure of seeing people murdered? Are these actually films that people who normally hate slasher movies still might enjoy?

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 387: Hegel on Law (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 03:54:00 +0000

Continuing on on sec. 469-483 of Hegel's Phenomenology, finishing the analysis of Antigone and bringing in Oedipus to say why the conflict between types of law is both criminal and destined. We then turn to the aftermath: a society alienated from law but with legally recognized self-conscious individuals.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/pel. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Go to HelloFresh.com/pel10fm to Get 10 free meals + a free Zwilling Knife with your third box.

PEL Presents PvI#114: Earning Crazy Town w/ Jenny Hansen

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 19:09:00 +0000

St. Lawrence philosophy prof Jennifer L. Hansen, one of the most frequent guest on Mark's podcasts and expert in feminist philosophy, here hits it off with our new host Mary. We act out vegan jerky time, snacktime at the all-girls clubhouse, and two gals getting pulled over by a cop.

Does the "come debate me" style of philosophy include unnecessarily masculine tropes? How does this Charlie Kirk model relate to what Socrates was doing? What are alternative, fun ways to get students to talk in philosophy classes?

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

PEL Presents PMP#217: Mel Brooks' Old Comedy

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:03:00 +0000

In light of Judd Apatow's HBO documentary The 99-Year-Old Man, we discuss the films of Mel Brooks, which were to varying degrees formative on us (i.e. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al).

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for nearly every episode at patreon.com/prettymuchpop.

Sponsors: Get started with Claude AI at claude.ai/pmp. Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 387: Hegel on Law (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:01:00 +0000

Continuing on Hegel's Phenomenology, "Spirit" chapter, now up to sections 464-483, which are under the sub-headings "Ethical Action. Human and Divine Knowledge. Guilt and Destiny" and "Legal Status."

After anticipating it in last episode, we get Hegel's allegorical analysis of Antigone as a clash between two types of law that cooperate in a harmonious society. With this clash, both fail, leaving us with modernity where law is alienated from individuals.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Go to NerdWallet.com/PEL for trustworthy small business loans. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PREMIUM-Ep. 386: Hegel on Society (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 21:50:00 +0000

On sec. 451-463 of Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit. We get into more detail on these passages about the way the two types of law (human and divine) interact, as well as how these play out in family roles and the responsibility to bury the dead.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents NEM#248: Lande Hekt: Lucky to Be Indie

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:37:00 +0000

Lande started in the 2010's in the British punk-pop group Muncie Girls, with six releases (mostly EPs), and began her solo career in 2019. We discuss "Coming Home" (and listen at the end to the title track) from her fourth solo album Lucky Now (2026), "80 Days of Rain" from Going to Hell (2011), and "Learn In School" by Muncie Girls from From Caplan to Belsize (2016). Intro: "Gay Space Cadets" from House Without a View (2022).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsors: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/nem. Download the Gametime app and use code NEM for $20 off your first purchase of concert tickets.

Ep. 386: Hegel on Society (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:39:00 +0000

Continuing on the "Spirit" section of The Phenomenology of Spirit, giving a sort of social metaphysics, wherein the ethical life of a society is analyzed into two complementary types of law, human (explicit laws but also customs) and what Hegel calls "divine" (a subconscious ethical sense represented by the home and women).

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 PvI#113: Mary and Mark Pick Their Battles

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 20:48:00 +0000

What is it worth raising an objection over, and how hard do you fight? We hear (and act out) Mary's roommate-searching trauma, plus Mary for President, curiosity about bellicose Twitter, respect vs. reverence, rationality and religion, dealing with QAnon believers, family Thanksgiving, giving someone else a name, vegetarianism, and the angel of philosophy.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

PEL Presents PMP#216: Oscars So Black?

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:18:00 +0000

In light of the now-completed black history month and the upcoming Oscars, we consider the "Oscars So White" issue that was a hot topic about a decade ago.

We all tried to watch some of the Oscar-nominated films by black creators, like Twelve Years a Slave, Moonlight, Judas and the Black Messiah, Boyz in Da Hood, et al. What makes for a critically lauded drama in this genre? Does a film have to have black creators (not just stars) to be an authentically black film? Are such films destined for a niche audience? Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al discuss.

Get more at prettymuchpop.com. Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for 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 started with Claude AI at claude.ai/pmp. Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 386: Hegel on Society (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:17:00 +0000

On. G.W.F. Hegel's The Phenomenology of Spirit (1807), sec. 438-463. What constitutes society?

We're beginning a multi-episode arc here on the "Spirit" chapter of the book, so we learn what Spirit actually is and how it relates to individuals. We also talk about the two layers of law that make up society and how these can be in or out of harmony.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/pel. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents NEM#247: John S. Hall (King Missile): Daily Poet

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 19:07:00 +0000

John has released at least fifteen albums, more than half of these under the name King Missile, but even this name covers three different bands, since John until recently didn't play any instruments, so his music is always collaborative with one or more music writers. Apart from his various musical projects, he's published around 50 books of poetry and publishes poems every day on his Facebook page.

We discuss "Her Cock is True" from the yet-to-be-released King Missile album Quest for Fire, "Eating People" from The Psychopathology of Everyday Life (2003), and "Sensitive Artist" from Fluting on the Hump (1987). End song: "Garden" by You, Me and This Fuckin' Guy from Garden Variety Fuckers (2020). Intro: "Detachable Penis" from Happy Hour (1992).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsor: Get three months free of online payroll and benefits software for small businesses at gusto.com/nem.

Ep. 385: Guest Graham Harman on Object vs. Continuum (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:31:00 +0000

In our continuing Q&A with Graham, we engage him about Kantian Things-In-Themselves, complex things (that if divided, must be cut at the joints) vs. mere heaps, fact ontology, natural kinds, fictional objects, why philosophy is not knowledge, and philosophical style.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Go to NerdWallet.com/PEL for trustworthy small business loans. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Go to HelloFresh.com/pel10fm to Get 10 free meals + a free Zwilling Knife with your third box.

PEL Presents PvI#112: Musical Zoom w/ Jerome Kurtenbach

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:54:00 +0000

Jerome is an LA composer/director/screenwriter who is involved in a lot of musical improv, so Mary and Mark interview him about that and about the function of art, plus songs for pets, a support group for people who sing all the time, and more.

Hear more PvI. Jerome sticks around for the post-game, shared with you non-supporters just this once. Support the podcast to get this for most episodes, plus an ad free experience.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

PEL Presents PMP#215: Hamnet Dramatizes Shakespeare

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:20:00 +0000

When we don't know much about some genius playwright's life, why not make up some things based on the contents of his plays? Maybe put Shakespearean dialogue right in character's mouths, so the audience will say, "hey, I remember that line!"

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk through the Chloe Zhao Oscar-bait historical drama, Hamnet, and its source, the 2020 novel by Maggie O'Farrell. Is the film great, or just "grief porn"? Plus, Shakespeare in Love and other biopics.

Sponsors: Get started with Claude AI at claude.ai/pmp. Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 385: Guest Graham Harman on Object vs. Continuum (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:57:00 +0000

An interview with Graham in light of his new book, Waves and Stones: On the Ultimate Nature of Reality, which elaborates and adds to issues that the gang previously studied in Object-Oriented Ontology.

Graham argues that in addition to objects (which have parts), there are continua, such as space and time, and these continua are the links that allow otherwise forever separated objects to touch each other.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Go to NerdWallet.com/PEL for trustworthy small business loans. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Ep. 385: Guest Graham Harman on Object vs. Continuum (Part Two for Supporters)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 18:11:00 +0000

NEM#246: Robert Deeble in His Talking Voice

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:16:00 +0000

Folky singer/songwriter and psychotherapist Robert started in the '80s but considers 1994 his professional debut and has now released his seventh album since then, The Space Between Us.

We discuss "Attic of Desire" (and the intro is "The Forest From the Tree") from that album, plus "Uncertain" from Beloved (2017), the title track from Earthside Down (1998). End song: "Rock A Bye" feat. Victoria Williams from Days Like These (1994). More at robertdeeble.com.

Watch Robert's video for "The Forest From the Tree." The previous version of "Attic of Desire" was called "A Formal Apology" from Thirteen Stories (2003). Watch Robert and his band play "Earthside Down" live in 2002.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsor: Download the Gametime app and use code NEM for $20 off your first purchase of concert tickets.

Ep. 384: Graham Harman's Object-Oriented Ontology (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:09:00 +0000

We consider chapter 2, "Aesthetics Is the Root of All Philosophy," where Harman describes how art can help us see behind the veil to things-in-themselves. Art is "theatrical" in that it's really the spectator who is standing in like an actor for the object encountered in art.

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#111: God Smites Elijah Dann

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 18:24:00 +0000

Vancouver philosophy prof Elijah was an evangelical Christian who turned liberal and then atheistic, and his latest book, "Unbelieving God: A Skeptics Guide," considers and debunks the various arguments for the existence of God.

Mark and Mary chat with him about his journey and about the degree to which we should care about others' beliefs in this area so as to engage them in debate. In the course of this, as you'd expect, God makes a personal appearance (with Mary), and there's an aborted sketch about a brainwashing service.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

PEL Presents PMP#214: South Park Resurgence

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:58:00 +0000

We're discussing Trey Parker and Matt Stone's Comedy Central show that premiered in 1997 and has just finished its politically relevant 28th season, featuring the usual crew: Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al.

How can a show be so juvenile yet so apparently well thought out?e get into the evolution of the show,, the equal-opportunity offensive humor, the use of child characters to deliver it, their ambiguous politics, the quick turnaround production, the excellent music, and more.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 384: Graham Harman's Object-Oriented Ontology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:11:00 +0000

Continuing on Object-Oriented Ontology: A New Theory of Everything (2018), finishing up ch. 1 (discussing what's so bad about reductionism) and moving to ch. 4, "Indirect Relations," which is about causality.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents Closereads: Hegel's "Unhappy Consciousness"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:24:00 +0000

We're within the Self-Consciousness chapter of The Phenomenology of Spirit, specifically starting at sec. 206 on the Unhappy Consciousness. This comes after the famous Master-Slave section as well as sections about Stoicism and Skepticism, and it depicts a dividedness within the self stemming from a faulty view of the relation between self and world.

Subscribe to Closereads at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy; follow us there via the free tier to get episodes like this ad free, or pay us to get future installments in this series and everything else we've recorded. (Alternatively, support both PEL and Closereads at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife for a nice combo deal.)

Ep. 384: Graham Harman's Object-Oriented Ontology (Part Three for Supporters)

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:56:00 +0000

Ep. 384: Graham Harman's Object-Oriented Ontology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 03:22:00 +0000

On Harman's Object-Oriented Ontology: A New Theory of Everything (2018). What counts as an entity in the world? Harman includes not just physical objects, but fictional objects, "sensual objects," and even events, which you might have thought were the alternative to objects.

With this promiscuous ontology comes a strange theory of causality whereby no real object touches another real object, and an epistemology that involves us having no knowledge of real objects at all, though Harman's theory art gives us a back-door to make up for this deficiency, and philosophy itself ends up sharing in these properties of art.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Go to HelloFresh.com/pel10fm to Get 10 free meals + a free Zwilling Knife with your third box.

PEL Presents PvI#110: Memories of 2026 w/ Mark and Mary

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:39:00 +0000

To kick off 2026, Mark and Mary talk about memory: memory care for the elderly, the relation between things and memories, what professional activities are worth preserving (improv performances?), being the tchotchke, womb nostalgia, puppets and percussion, plus a visit from the future.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 383: Freud on Love and the Primal Horde (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 05:34:00 +0000

Finishing up Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego, finally now turning to Freud's anthropological account of group membership.

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.

NEM#245: Darren Michael Boyd's Guitar Instrumentals Beyond Metal

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 16:54:00 +0000

Ontario guitarist Darren has released six albums of concise instrumentals since 2019, often using metal guitar tones and tropes, but with a great range of tones and often catchy melodies.

We discuss "The Day Beneath Yesterday" (and listen at the end to "Dangerous Curves") from Perpetual Night (2025), "Broken Glass and Disappointment" from Thoughts and Scares (2022), and "The Earth is B Flat" from Lifting the Curse (2019). Intro: The title track from Wonders of the Invisible World (2020). More at darrenboyd.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

PEL Presents PMP#213: Stranger Things Grown Familiar

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 23:02:00 +0000

The Netflix sci-fi/horror/teen series by the Duffer Brothers that started in 2016 has now finished with its sixth season, attempting to be both epic and sentimental. Who is this show actually aimed at? We talk about the initial appeal through various uneven seasons through the execution of the finale. Has the thing gone on so long that we can't make sense out of the continuity. Featuring, as usual, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/PRETTY (code PRETTY) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 383: Freud on Love and the Primal Horde (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:23:00 +0000

On the second half of Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego. We talk about the dual origins of group membership for Freud in personal love and in the supposed primitive society where a horde was led by a tyrannical father.

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.

Last chance! You can still sign up now for Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy online class. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PvI#109: Choose Your Own Failure w/ Rich Baker

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 19:55:00 +0000

Rich runs the Dare to Fail improv school and is author of Improv Made Easier. He joins Mark and Mary to discuss contexts of failure, failing to meet your goals vs. "objective failure," how to react in an improv scene to some topic that's too offensive for you, graveyard humor vs. reverence. Featuring Steaks You Deserve, Robo-Carson, cancer torture, interactive cemetery, Sounds of Failure, and open-sourced MST3K.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Visit squarespace.com/LINSENMAYER (code LINSENMAYER) for a free trial and 10% off your first website or domain.

Ep. 383: Freud on Love and the Primal Horde (Part One for Supporters)

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:53:00 +0000

PEL 2026 Kickoff Nightcap

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 13:27:00 +0000

It's another year, and this time we each came in with a short bucket list of philosophical works that we'd like to read before this podcast concludes, whenever that might be.

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.

It's time to enroll in Mark's spring Big Books in Continental Philosophy Class! Learn more at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Ep. 382: Freud on Group Psychology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:20:00 +0000

Continuing on the first half of Sigmund Freud's Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego, now getting really into Freud's own type of explanation, whereby he explains how libidinal ties bind group members, typically via their shared love of a leader or leading idea.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Make a tax deductible donation at GiveWell.org; pick "podcast" and enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout.

Interested in Mark's spring Continental Philosophy class? Learn more and reserve your spot at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PvI#108: Guess Who's Coming to Christmas Dinner... Lawrence Ware!

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 16:56:00 +0000

Philosopher/writer/critic/podcaster Lawrence Ware returns to the show to meet Mary and talk about how Mark is his own personal Leroy Jesus. We act out and/or discuss orphan greeting cards, face-to-face instruction vs. writing books, imaginary friends, laugh trumpets, black ice, and is aesthetic judgment (especially of yourself) a mistake?

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Get the holiday deal (up to 50% off!) at MasterClass.com/IMPROV. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/improv.

PEL Presents PMP#212: Holiday Romance Films

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 23:29:00 +0000

The Hallmark Channel became famous for producing low-budget, formulaic Christmas films, and this has spread to other outlets, sometimes with higher budgets and ambitions. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al each watched a smattering of these and share their reflections on the genre and their specific experiences.

Get an ad-free experience, plus bonus talking for 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 up to 50% an annual membership at MasterClass.com/PRETTY. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/pmp.

Ep. 382: Freud on Group Psychology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:34:00 +0000

On the first half of Sigmund Freud's Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego (1921). Why do members of a mob get dumber and less inhibited?

Freud considers Gustave Le Bon's famous book on crowds but then turns to more organized groups like armies and churches. For all groups, Freud thinks that the leader (or leading ideal) replaces our conscience to some degree.

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 an exclusive 5% discount on NordProtect plans. Go to nordprotect.com/partially and use the code partially at checkout.

Interested in Mark's spring Continental Philosophy class? Learn more and reserve your spot at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents NEM#244: Year-End Chat with NEM Audio Editor Roger Heathers

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 17:55:00 +0000

In a special holiday episode, we get to meet musician and podcaster Roger Heathers, who edits this show. Together, Roger and I discuss how we make the show and share some highlights and challenges re. recent guests.

At the beginning and the end of the show, you get to hear two tracks from his soon to be released Upward Spiral: "Guard Dogs" and "Hopefully." They both feature a warm, holiday-like glow.

You can listen to him at rogerheathers.bandcamp.com, or check out The Weekly Song Podcast.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsor: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance; connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/nem.

PREMIUM-Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:01:00 +0000

We discuss the first six questions from the "Moral Action" section in the Summa Theologica (1268), which we read in Thomas Aquinas: Selected Philosophical Writings (1993).

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Bacchic Redemption in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" (1975) (Part 1)

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:43:43 +0000

Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 02:43:00 +0000

Continuing to discuss the virtue and moral action from the Summa Theologica (1268). We discuss the definition of virtue and some subsequent questions about what parts of us the term virtue properly applies to.

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. Get an exclusive 5% discount on NordProtect plans. Go to nordprotect.com/partially and use the code partially at checkout. Buy the PEL book!

Interested in Mark's spring Continental Philosophy class? Check partiallyexaminedlife.com/class for the latest.

PEL Presents PvI#107: Mary and Mark Argue About Arguing

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 22:09:00 +0000

Is argumentation essential to philosophy? Should you always be open to arguments challenging your beliefs? We act out a few symbiotic scenarios and reflect back on our last couple of episodes. Plus animal facts, complaining to your significant other about exes, astrology prejudice, sexual harassment videos, and on-stage self-pleasure.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Get the holiday deal (up to 50% off!) at MasterClass.com/IMPROV.

PEL Presents PMP#211: Slow Horses and Predecessors

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:53:00 +0000

We discuss the British spy show based on the novels of Mick Herron, which are in turn firmly in a tradition of anti-007 books by John le Carré. Featuring Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al. The point is not to glamorize the spy service, but to use realism and black humor to stress the human cost and general boredom of this work along with the dysfunctional nature of the institutions involved.

Sponsors: Get 15% off an annual membership at MasterClass.com/PRETTY. Go to surfshark.com/pmp or use code pmp at checkout to get 4 extra monthsof Surfshark VPN.

Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part Two for Supporters)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 03:36:00 +0000

http://partiallyexaminedlife.com

Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 03:34:00 +0000

http://partiallyexaminedlife.com

PEL Presents Subtext: Erin's New Book "Avail"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Erin just published her first book, "Avail," which you can order here: https://www.pauldrybooks.com/products/avail

"Avail" features a long prose-poem which titles the book and winds through sections of lineated, often formal poems. The prose-poem comprises a series of lyric meditations on the image of the veil—from religious and cultural veils, to veils imbedded in idiom and metaphor, to veiled women in art and classic films, to veils drawn and parted by illness and death—which slowly divulge the harrowing details of the poet's blood disorder.

Throughout, allusions to classic film, literature, and art serve as the "veils" with which the poet attempts to obscure the self-estrangement and vulnerability her illness has induced—insecurities which follow her long after her recovery. In a poem about a break-up set during her career as a jazz singer and against the backdrop of a 1930s screwball comedy, she longs "to shake life by the martini (but stay self- / possessed), to star in the movie of myself / instead of playing second lead." During a visit to Naples, Mt. Vesuvius becomes "a Crawford eyebrow / arched over the bay." And in California, after a trip to the Getty Villa, she recalls Sontag's "missive on allusion, that no part / of any work is new, that all is reproduction." By the end of the collection, O'Luanaigh has fashioned from the sum of these various allusions her own poetic identity, unveiled in the poems themselves.

PEL Presents NEM#243: Corey Ledet's Eclectic Zydeco

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 22:48:00 +0000

Corey has released many of zydeco music since 2004, and mixes his dedication to tradition (even recording a recent album in Louisiana Creole) with his love of many types of music.

We discuss "J'ai Parti dans la Campagne" (and listen at the end to "Outro") from his new release, Live in Alaska; "That Girl Wanna Dance" from the Grammy nominated Nothin' But the Best (2012); and "Way Back Home," a Jazz Crusaders (Wilton Felder) cover recorded for 3 Years 2 Late (2003). Intro: "Boudin Man (Remix)" from Destiny (2013). More at coreyledet.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsor: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance; connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/nem.

Ep. 380: Josiah Royce on Community (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:22:00 +0000

More on The Problem of Christianity, discussing how communities relate to history, how individuals relate to communities, and what's unique about Royce's ideal Christian world community.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get an exclusive 5% discount on NordProtect plans. Go to nordprotect.com/pel and use the code pel at checkout. Get $45 off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat electronic picture frame at auraframes.com and use promo code PEL at checkout. Visit functionhealth.com/PEL to get the data you need to take action for your health.

Interested in Mark's spring Continental Philosophy class? Check partiallyexaminedlife.com/class for the latest.

PEL Presents PvI#106: Heart Tchochkes w/ Seth Stephon Brown

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 15:53:00 +0000

Seth is an improviser and aspiring professional "muse," which is a type of life coach that hangs out with you to see where you could be more in touch with your humanity so that you can then work out a coherent plan for your adult life. He discusses with Mary and Mark the conflict between authentic individual humans and a social structure filled with oppressive systems.

Should we "deprogram" ourselves from our standardized upbringing? Is there actually an authentic core we would uncover if we do so, or just a void ready to be filled with the promises of self-help gurus? We act out the personality store, the physically safe space, vulnerability coaching, ankle removal consideration, and more.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/improv.

PEL Presents PMP#210: One Paul Thomas Anderson Film After Another

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 22:41:00 +0000

In light of One Battle After Another, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al walk through the range of his films from his 1996 crime film Hard Eight through his much lauded Magnolia, Boogie Nights, Punch-Drunk Love, and There Will Be Blood and his more controversial recent ones like Licorice Pizza, The Master, The Phantom Thread, and Inherent Vice.

Sponsors: Go to surfshark.com/pmp or use code pmp at checkout to get 4 extra monthsof Surfshark VPN. If you like our show, check out the Moviestruck podcast.

Ep. 380: Josiah Royce on Community (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 21:50:20 +0000

On sections of The Problem of Christianity (1913) which establish Royce's concept of a community of interpretation: individuals working together with a sense of shared history and expectation. He claims that such a grouping can be counted as a literal mind and that it solves the problem of human meaning.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Have up to $100 matched when you donate to a well-researched charity at givewell.org; pick PODCAST and enter The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast at checkout.

Get $45 off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat electronic picture frame at auraframes.com and use promo code PEL at checkout.

Interested in Mark's spring Continental Philosophy class? Check partiallyexaminedlife.com/class for the latest.

Ep. 380: Josiah Royce on Community (Part One for Supporters)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 22:16:00 +0000

http://partiallyexaminedlife.com

PEL Presents NEM#242: Marshall Crenshaw Subtracts

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Marshall began creating his catchy, harmonically thick rock tunes in the early '80s with six major label albums, but went indie in the '90s to record four more as well as several EPs and live collections.

We discuss "Stranger and Stranger," newly reworked for From the Hellhole (2025), "Right On Time" from Jaggedland (2009), "Fantastic Planet of Love" from Life's Too Short (1991), and we conclude by listening to Our Town" from Field Day (1983). Intro: "Someday, Someway" from Marshall Crenshaw (1982). More at marshallcrenshaw.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsors: Go to surfshark.com/nakedly or use code nakedly at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance; connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/nem.

Ep. 379: Egyptian Philosophy with Chike Jeffers (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:39:15 +0000

Continuing on sources from ancient Egypt, finishing up the instructional literature: "The Instruction of Ptahhotep," and "The Instruction Addressed to King Merikare," and then we move to the dialogues, ""The Eloquent Peasant," and "The Dispute Between a Man and His Ba."

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/pel. 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 PvI#105: Friendtor Debate Club w/ Scott Gelfand

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Scott, ex-professor at Oklahoma State University and author of "Thinking Ethically: A Handbook for Making Moral Choices," chats with Mark and Mary about ethical debate in our age of seemingly unbridgeable divides. We engage in some suspect philosophical counseling, have a staged mini-debate about affirmative action, and simulate a new class of discussion-intensive air travel. More at scottgelfand.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Sponsor: Get 15% off at MasterClass.com/IMPROV.

PEL Presents PMP #209: Alien Franchised

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In light of Noah Hawley TV show Alien Earth, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al revisit the franchise through its seven canon films beginning with Ridley Scott's 1979 classic.

While there's plenty of sheer repetition (alien loose, killing people one by one) throughout these properties, the various filmmakers attempt to avoid sure repetition by shifting genres. On the new show, we get a pronounced shift to focusing on the synthetic humans; is that a good thing?

Sponsors: Get 50% off Claude AI Pro at Claude.ai/pmp. Get 15% off an annual membership at MasterClass.com/PRETTY.

Ep. 379: Egyptian Philosophy with Chike Jeffers (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:03:05 +0000

The co-author of the African run of the History of Philosophy Podcast (and new book) joins us to go over philosophical works from 2200-1400 BCE: "The Instruction of Ptahhotep," "The Instruction Addressed to King Merikare," "The Great Hymn to the Aten," "The Dispute Between a Man and His Ba," and "The Eloquent Peasant."

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 NEM#241: Humor in Music Discussion

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Mark is joined by returning NEM guest Don Rauf (from Life In a Blender), singer/songwriter/cartoonist David Heatley), and writer/musician Dave "Diggy" Dawson aka Dave Philpott.

Is funny music necessarily less sincerely emotional, and so a failure at what music is supposed to do? We discuss rock star personas, ironic use of genre, humor in musical gesture, Zappa, Spinal Tap, and more.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic.

Sponsor: Go to surfshark.com/nakedly or use code nakedly at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN.

PREMIUM-Ep. 378: Aquinas on God and Mind (Part Four)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

We complete our Aquinas treatment for the moment by considering emotions: categorizing them, asking whether they have opposites, and making them coherent given Aquinas' Aristotelian conception of soul.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 378: Aquinas on God and Mind (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:41:05 +0000

We're now moving on to the "mind" portion of our discussion, covering how reason motivates us, how free will is possible, and the degree to which the mind is passive or active.

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#104: The Hippie Code w/ Vickie Eistenstein

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Mark and Mary are joined by improvisor-comedian-actress-filmmaker-host Vickie to talk about code switching and authenticity. Can you be authentic and still work a day job? Can Problem Solvers, Inc. solve the office restroom schedule? Are authentic hippies really beatniks? Also, displaying comic America on Korean talk shows, ethical pornography, commerce vs. art, granola in your hair, and more.

Vickie sticks around for a bit of post-game (usually restricted to supporters but shared with you this time), where we talk about the improv lessons and techniques from the episode and refresh what the point of this podcast is.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support.

Ep. 378: Aquinas on God and Mind (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:54:22 +0000

Continuing on bits of Thomas Aquinas: Selected Philosophical Writings, completing our analysis of his arguments for the existence of God and then turning to eternity and the possibility of actually talking about God, given our finitude.

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#208: An Ed Gein Halloween

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

It's a special two-hander where Mark and Lawrence reflect on the appeal of horror and how the new Monster: Ed Gein Netflix show has to contribute, given that it is not merely a (very loose) presentation of real events, and itself a horror drama, but also a commentary on the Hollywood properties influenced by the Ed Gein murders, including Psycho, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Silence of the Lambs. We bring this up to date by including discussion of the Terrifier films as well as the work of Rob Zombie.

Sponsors: Get 50% off Claude AI Pro at Claude.ai/pmp. Go to surfshark.com/pmp or use code pmp at checkout to get 4 extra monthsof Surfshark VPN.

PEL Presents NEM#240: Jonathan Rundman, Multi-Branded

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist Jonathan (currently based in Minneapolis) has been putting out indie rock solo albums since 1992, but has also ventured into traditional Finnish folk music and has multiple releases of tunes that I won't call Christian rock, but more rock that grapples with being someone who goes to church.

We discuss "Diner by the Train" (and listen at the end to "Evidence") from Waves (2025), "Home Unknown" from Look Up (2015), "Tape" from Recital (1997), and "Failing Rockstar Attempt" from Sound Theology (2000). Intro: "When I Get Bored" from 11 Years and 28 Days in the Yellow Room (1992) More at junathanrundman.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Visit square.com/go/nem to learn about how Square helps local businesses. Go to surfshark.com/nakedly or use code nakedly at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN.

Ep. 378: Aquinas on God and Mind (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:25:15 +0000

On selections from Thomas Aquinas: Selected Philosophical Writings, mostly taken from the Summa Theologica (1268).

Given our flawed, finite human nature, how do we fit into the universe? In particular, how can we know and talk about things far beyond our experience such as God and eternity? In this part, we discuss arguments for the existence of God.

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 PvI#103: Post-COVID Mary and Mark

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

How does your body talk to you? Your favorite hosts-of-a-philosophy-and-improv-comedy show Mark Linsenmayer and Merry Mary Hynes re-connect after both being sick to get a bit Halloweeny so as to talk about various food-related monsters, experiencing art by disgraced creators, inner homunculi a la "Inside Out," movie talk, Nietzsche's nose fetish, 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. 377: Emil Cioran's Pessimism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:03:35 +0000

Continuing on "Directions for Decomposition" from A Short History of Decay (1949). What is it that humans are inevitably trying to avoid that seems so bad to us? It's our existential separation from others, our essential, incommunicable solitude. Plus, ennui, sloth, and being a "traitor to existence."

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#207: Spinal Tap and Other Fake Bands

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al watched Spinal Tap and its new sequel, and we throw these into a mix with K-Pop Demon Hunters and other films and shows involving made-for-TV (and film) bands, including We Are Lady Parts, That Thing You Do, Fear of a Black Hat, CB4, Atlanta, The Blues Brothers, The Commitments, Almost Famous, The Rutles, and The Monkees.

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. Get 15% off an annual membership at MasterClass.com/PRETTY.

PEL Presents NEM#239: Adrian Sherwood's Dub Productions

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Adrian has applied his distinctive, spacey dub mixing techniques to numerous recordings since 1978 including Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, Lee "Scratch" Perry, Sinéad O'Connor, and Spoon and has released nine albums under his own name since 2003. He has effectively served as a key band member in several groups including Creation Rebel and African Head Charge.

We discuss "Body Roll" from The Collapse of Everything (2025), "Starship Bahia" from Survival & Resistance (2012), and "Sharp as a Needle" by Barmy Army from The English Disease (1989). End song: "Make Up Your Mind" by Coldcut (Ninja Tunes), et al from Outside the Echo Chamber (2017). Intro: "Movement in Space" by Creation Rebel from Starship Africa (1980). More at adriansherwood.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. 377: Emil Cioran's Pessimism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:11:02 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:28:34 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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"?

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:46:52 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 19:59:13 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:41:47 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

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.

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:21:06 +0000

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.

PEL Presents PvI#100: Maximizing Turtle Revenue w/ Tim Sniffen and Anthony LeBlanc

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:53:16 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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.

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:42:57 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 18:20:15 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:07:10 +0000

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?

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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?

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

...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

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:00:11 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:47:13 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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!

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 11:18:56 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:33:09 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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?

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 03:55:15 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 02:03:55 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:39:18 +0000

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.

Philosophy vs. Improv #96: We Allege Humor w/ Mark Schiff & Daniel Lobell

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 02:36:32 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:23:15 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:12:05 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:44:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:40:05 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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!

NEM#232: Chris Church Refines Power Pop

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 21:50:49 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:55:54 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:55:36 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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 Reason in Ethics (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:08:26 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 29 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 May 2025 15:32:03 +0000

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 24 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

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.

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

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 May 2025 04:16:46 +0000

On David Hume's An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (1751). What is morality, and how can we know it?

Hume claims that we simply find ourselves with sentiments morally approving and disapproving of various things. Characterizing these post hoc, we can say that in general we approve of what brings utility, and this explains the existence of most laws and mores. These may vary by culture because conditions change the utility calculation in different environments.

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.

PEL Presents PMP#196: Our "Sinners" Shindig

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 16 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Luvell Anderson (Philosophy prof. at U of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign) joins Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al to discuss Ryan Coogler's new vampire siege/black studies film starring Michael B. Jordan. We talk about the film's comments on black freedom, black music, the church, why the film needed twins, whether the vampires were even necessary, the film's humor and structure, and more.

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. 366: Edith Stein on Empathy (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 12 May 2025 11:04:43 +0000

Continuing on The Problem of Empathy. What does it mean to say that we know other people's mental states "non-primordially"? We talk about Stein's project of explaining how empathy is possible, what it gets us, and how her answers differ from Scheler's.

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.

PEL Presents PvI#92: Postale au Naturale w/ Greg McBrayer

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Greg teaches philosophy (and is Interim Provost at Ashland, loves Xenophon, and runs a podcast. We reflect on the dangers of radon and other "natural" things. How might one of our government agencies become more natural, and would we want that? Are fart jokes the most naturally funny kind? Then, Greg the trucker visits Empty Street and embezzles dead mules.

Bill was thrust from the final portion of the call, so Mark and Greg engage in some philosophy podcast shop talk. He returns for the Post-Game after Greg's departure to reflect on the episode and specifically identify the naturalistic fallacy.

PREMIUM-PEL Sentimentalism Nightcap 2025

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 09 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

We put our recent episodes on moral phenomenology into perspective, anticipating our upcoming Hume discussion and going through some other options to enrich this study of sentiment vs. rational intuition. Plus, more potential author-guests and recent philosophy book coverage.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 366: Edith Stein in Empathy (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 May 2025 12:35:20 +0000

On The Problem of Empathy (1917). What is empathy, and what is its significance?

Stein pictures empathy as a dynamic process that involves what Scheler called sympathy but goes beyond this. Your don't just take the other person's feeling as our object of contemplation, but in doing so, your enter into it (while still not confusing it with YOUR feeling), this relating to it "non-primordially." So how does this work, exactly?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents PMP#195: Mike White's Lotus

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 02 May 2025 17:00:00 +0000

We discuss the HBO dramedy about rich people having existential crises at a luxury resort in light of its third season. What exactly made this latest season less satisfying than the others? Does the show have a sustainable formula? What is the show saying about enlightenment? Travel? Sexuality?

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. 365: Scheler on Love (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:11:41 +0000

We conclude our treatment of Max Scheler's The Nature of Sympathy (1922), getting further into the Part II of the book about love and hatred and grappling with the puzzles about what exactly it is we love about someone (the "personality").

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

If you enjoy our podcast, check out Working Class History at workingclasshistory.com.

PEL Presents NEM#230: Dean Wareham (Luna, Galaxie 500) Waxes Poetic

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Dean has released about 20 albums, starting with three '88-'90 with Galaxie 500, then he started fresh in New York as Luna, releasing seven albums and some EPs through 2005 (plus a later reunion), then continued with his Luna bassist and now spouse Britta Phillips as Dean and Britta for five albums, interspersed with now four albums under his own name and other miscellaneous projects.

We discuss "We're Not Finished Yet" (and listen at the end to "The Cloud Is Coming" from That's the Price of Loving Me (2025), "Love Is Colder Than Death" from Emancipated Hearts (2013), and "23 Minutes in Brussels" by Luna from Penthouse (1995). Intro: "Strange" by Galaxie 500 from On Fire (1989). More at deanwareham.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 365: Scheler on Love (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 10:39:31 +0000

On The Nature of Sympathy (1922), Part II: "Love and Hatred." What is love, and how does it relate to ethics and to sympathy?

For Scheler, love is a primitive, spontaneous movement from lower to higher values: We see the best in the love one and thereby help enable them to attain that excellence. So is love foundational for value, or is value foundational for love? The two seem to arise together.

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.

PEL Presents PMP#194: Adolescence Wrecks Us

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:00:00 +0000

We watched the 4-part British crime series that's become #1 in 80 countries, breaking Netflix's records for an original series. And man, was it a bummer. But important!

We reflect on the purpose of the show, its one-take-per-episode format, the choice of whose perspectives to show, the crazy good acting by such a young person, and we get a little education about incel culture. How have things changed since we were kids?

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. 364: Max Scheler on Sympathy (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 10:19:28 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Dylan reconvened for one more hour on Part I, "Fellow Feeling" (ch. 3-4) in The Nature of Sympathy (1913/1922).

We continue to try to figure out the razor's edge of "fellow feeling proper" that does not rely on the sympathizer identifying in any way and look into psychological and metaphysical ways that people can identify with others.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including more part 3 discussions like this one, which aren't normally made available on this public feed.

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PvI#91: Community Breakdown (or Breakdance?) w/ Nick Armstrong

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 23:42:11 +0000

Mark and Bill are joined by the actor/improviser who directs Camp Improv Utopia and is involved in managing improv spaces such as Denver's Rise Comedy. We talk about the notion of community, with a scene about the neighborhood watch and a return to Empty Street to deal seriously in a public-service-announcement/after-school special sort of way with the issue of buying liquor underage.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 364: Max Scheler on Sympathy (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:18:09 +0000

Continuing on The Nature of Sympathy (1913/1922), Part I: "Fellow Feeling," Ch. 1-4. We look more closely at the text, getting further into how fellow feeling relates to ethics, and why the moral sentimentalists (like Hume) were wrong about this.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents PMP#193: Severance: Mystery Box in Progress

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al here discuss the sci-fi/office dramedy in light of its second season. We might normally wait until the end of the show, but given that season 1 was 2022, and it took three years to get us season 2, who knows it it'll actually finish? And who knows if it will not be massively disappointing at that point? We strike while the show is culturally relevant!

But did even this season measure up to its phenomenal premise and first season? There are so many juicy plot and character elements on this show that we can't possibly fit them all in.

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.

NEM#229: Peter Holsapple (dB's, Continental Drifters) Pays Tribute to His Adolescence

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:04:03 +0000

Peter recorded with Chris Stamey as early as 1972, and they reconvened as The dB's in the '80s. Peter has released six albums as the dB's, three more as a duo with Chris, four co-fronting the Continental Drifters, and three solo albums. He has also been a supporting/touring member in several bands including REM, Hootie and the Blowfish, and currently The Paranoid Style.

We discuss "Larger Than Life" from his new solo album The Face of 68), "Don’t Mention the War" from Game Day (2018), and "She Won’t Drive in the Rain" by The Db’s from their reunion album Falling off the Sky (2012). We conclude by listening to "Where Does the Time Go" by Continental Drivers from Better Day (2001). Intro: "Amplifier" by The Db’s from Repercussion (1981). More info at halfpearblog.blogspot.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 364: Max Scheler on Sympathy (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:41:21 +0000

On The Nature of Sympathy (1913, expanded 1922), Part I: "Fellow Feeling," Ch. 1-4.

What is it to feel sympathy (aka "fellow feeling") for another person? It is NOT to "identify" with that person; ethics requires that the person be irreducibly Other, not part of my (extended) ego.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the History of the Germans podcast at historyofthegermans.com.

PEL Presents Closereads: Husserl on Perceiving Minds

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000

On Edmund Husserl's Ideas, Vol. 2 (1928), Section 3, "The Constitution of the Spiritual World," Ch. 1, "Opposition Between the Naturalistic and Personalistic Worlds."

Given Husserl's method of "reduction" whereby he sets aside the metaphysical status of objects in the natural world (are they mind-independent or merely ideas?), we wanted to see how he accounts for our ability to directly perceive other people's minds. We don't just perceive their bodies and our own bodies and deduce that others must be like us mentally, but we perceive both our minds and those of others as strata (aspects) of physical bodies.

Read along with us, starting on p. 183 (PDF p. 101).

Sign up to support Closereads at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy to get future parts of this discussion plus lots more content. Get all public Closereads episodes at closereadsphilosophy.com or on YouTube.

Ep. 363: Franz Brentano's Moral Epistemology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:04:08 +0000

Continuing on "The Origin of the Knowledge of Right and Wrong" (1889), getting into how we measure the comparative value of things. While Brentano does observe actual practices in these areas, his phenomenology detects moral facts that can be used to cast judgments of people's actual practices, saving him from relativism.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents PvI#90: Empty Street

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Mark and Bill introduce a new potential setting and some characters for ongoing use in future improvisations. We talk about techniques for doing that and wrap up by getting an update from Bill on his substitute teaching and talking about what makes for a good teacher.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 363: Franz Brentano's Moral Epistemology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:59:14 +0000

On "The Origin of the Knowledge of Right and Wrong" (1889). What justifies basic moral facts? Brentano claims that right there in our experience, we can rationally sense with complete certainty that certain kinds of preferences are good ones, and others are not. This take on intuitionism is a response to Kant that (like Kant) cuts between the traditional epistemic categories of rationalism and empiricism, and Brentano's descriptive psychology kicked off the whole project of phenomenology.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Learn about African history at historyofafricapodcast.podbean.com.

PEL Presents PMP #192: Exhibitionist Reality TV

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000

We acknowledge this hugely popular form of "entertainment" recently embodied by The Baldwins, but popularized by shows like The Osbournes and The Kardashians, wherein some celebrity and/or family just shows off their life, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al are joined by returning guest Kayla Dryesse to talk about why this kind of show exists, its variations, and its redeeming value (if any). Is The Baldwins basically just a lengthy Instagram post?

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. 362: Ecclesiastes: Biblical Existentialism? (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:15:04 +0000

Continuing on Ecclesiastes with guest Jesse Peterson, getting into some more close reading of particular sections. We make some connection from the author's observations to ancient Greek Skepticism, Epicureanism, and Stoicism. How is the world "absurd" according to this book?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#191: Saturday Night Liver

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 21:42:11 +0000

Are we taking for granted this unique, talent-filled weekly nationally televised live comedy event that's been around for 50 years? (as in "What do we think this show is? Chopped liver?") Does its format even make sense at this time given YouTube and streaming? What will its legacy be? Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the casts, highlights, and the recent anniversary specials.

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. 362: Ecclesiastes: Biblical Existentialism? (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:17:51 +0000

Ecclesiastes is often cited as one of the most philosophical books of the Bible, so we approached it in that spirit with the help of Jesse M. Peterson, whose soon-to-be-published book is called Qoheleth and the Philosophy of Value.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the History of the Germans podcast at historyofthegermans.com.

PEL Presents NEM#228: John "JR" Robinson: Omnipresent Drummer

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 18:00:00 +0000

JR has drummed on over 200 US Billboard Hot 100 songs and 50 Grammy winning tunes. He was in Rufus w/ Chaka Khan in the late 70s/early 80s, has released two solo albums, written for soundtracks, produced other artists, and has led various combos over the years. He is currently promoting his auto-biography King of the Groove.

We discuss "Gonna Be Alright" from The Bronx, USA soundtrack (2020), "Flight 81" from his first solo album, Funkshui (2004), and "You're Really Out of Line" by Rufus from Seal in Red (1983). End song: "Tal Shia" by SRT from Vanguards of Groove (2023). Intro: "Higher Love" by Steve Winwood (1986). More at johnjrrobinson.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 361: Marx on Machines (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 04:01:45 +0000

On "Fragment on Machines" (1858). Shouldn't automating work free workers? Not according to Marx, until capitalism is overthrown. Until then, automation actually just makes labor conditions worse and certainly doesn't give people more free time, since the capitalist keeps all the surplus gained by greater productivity.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#190: The Substance: Act Your Age!

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al discuss the Coralie Fargeat/Demi Moore film The Substance in light of its Oscar nominations, along with related reflections on lost youth, e.g. Sunset Boulevard (1950), Death Becomes Her (1992), and Neon Demon (2016). We also touch on other cloning scenarios.

Is this film a serious meditation on aging in Hollywood, or just a particularly vivid but logically confused Twilight Zone episode? Is the message of this film already itself past its prime?

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.

Sponsor: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at BetterHelp.com/pretty.

Ep. 361: Marx on Machines (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:15:42 +0000

We finish our treatment of Capital, Ch. 1, covering the little bit that Marx says about actual communism (he was wary of utopianism, contra his reputation), and think through a number of related practical problems. We introduce "Fragment on Machines" (1858).

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.

PEL Presents PvI#89: Improv 4 Change w/ Shawn and Aaron from srsly wrong

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Mark and Bill are joined by two north-of-the-border podcasters, Shawn Vulliez and Aaron Moritz, who incorporate both improv and philosophy in their dirty leftist podcast.

We simulate conversation as competing knowers-of-the-good-life and talk about using improv for political purposes. Note that this was recorded back in December when we were in the thick of Luigi Mangione fever and not yet consumed with daily Presidential antics.

You can choose to watch this on unedited video, if you choose.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 360: Karl Marx on Economic Value (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:17:33 +0000

Continuing on Capital, Ch. 1 on commodities. We go into detail on his account of how money gets derived from the continued comparison of various commodities, how use value comes back into play when we compare the economic value of one commodity as compared to another, and finally, the details of commodity fetishism.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents NEM#227: Django Haskins (The Old Ceremony): Pop Noir

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Django is a singer/songwriter/guitarist who released his first solo album in 1996 and has released seven albums with The Old Ceremony since 2004 plus several more solo releases.

We discuss The Old Ceremony songs "Too Big to Fail" (and listen to "Hangman's Party at the end) from Earthbound (2024), "The Disappear" from Walk On Thin Air (2009), and "Reservations" from Our One Mistake (2006). Intro: "Beautiful" from Folding Stars (1996). More at theoldceremony.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 360: Karl Marx on Economic Value (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 11:23:19 +0000

On Capital (1867), Ch. 1, "The Commodity."

What makes something we buy or sell valuable? Marx says it's ultimately the labor that goes into it, though there are some wrinkles in formulating this accurately, and the commodities and surrounding marketplace activity blind us to labor's role and its ethical import.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: You may also the Fallacious Trump podcast at fallacioustrump.com.

PEL Presents PMP#189: Bob Dylan As We Know Him

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In light of the recent release of the James Mangold film A Complete Unknown, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Dylan superfan Al discuss the man, the myth, and the music.

The film clearly aimed to make the music, environment, and political activity of the '60s come alive today, but does the simplification required to make a coherent film undermine that goal? We also touch on his Chronicles, plus I'm Not There and other Dylan-related films.

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 Closereads: Marx on Stirner (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 18:56:26 +0000

Mark and Wes read through and discuss Karl Marx's The German Ideology (1846), delving deep into the middle of his critique of Max Stirner's The Ego and Its Own.

Marx articulates and criticizes Stirner's attempt to distinguish the mere common egoism of an unthinking person from the enlightened egoism that Stirner is recommending.

Read along with us, starting on p. 259 (PDF p. 255).

Ep. 359: Karl Marx's Project (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 03:51:42 +0000

We continue on the introduction to Marx's Grundrisse, going through his criticisms of prior economists who were too ahistorical and didn't understand how production, consumption, distribution and exchange hang together as a single system.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents PvI#88: The Dark Side of Improv w/ Randy Fertel

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Randy is a literature guy who has written a couple of books about improv and here joins Mark and Bill to talk about WINGING IT: Improv's Power and Peril in the Age of Trump, wherein he basically blames improv for giving us the orange man. Our scenes are about Trumpers hustling a fast food joint and improv for dogs.

Mark and Bill stick around for some post-game bringing in yet another metaphor: music and its stylistic development.

Watch this as unedited video, if you so choose.

Ep. 359: Karl Marx's Project (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:58:53 +0000

On the intro to Marx's Grundrisse (1857) and "Theses on Feuerbach" (1845). Why economics, and why do it the way Marx does? We see Marx argues that Feuerbach's materialism was not materialistic enough, start looking at production, consumption, distribution, and exchange as moments within a single process, and talk about why anyone would want to read a historical economic text.

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.

Pretty Much Pop #188: Vampire Appreciation

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In light of Robert Eggers' film Nosferatu and the end of What We Do in Shadows, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the many vampire shows and films all the way back to Bram Stoker's 1897 novel.

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.

Sponsors: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at BetterHelp.com/pretty. Learn about LGBT stereotypes at gayishpodcast.com.

Ep. 358: Max Stirner's Egoism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 06:06:51 +0000

Continuing on The Ego and Its Own, focusing now on the sections "The Owner" and "My Power." Stirner lets us know that his egoism ("ownness") is not compatible with liberal egalitarianism, which he sees as just a continuation of the Christian project of perfecting humanity.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

Ep. 358: Max Stirner's Egoism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:53:14 +0000

On The Ego and its Own (1844), another big influence on Karl Marx and a precursor of NIetzsche, or perhaps an early Ayn Rand.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org.

PEL Presents NEM#226: The Evolution of Iain Matthews (Fairport Convention, Southern Comfort, Plainsong)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Iain started in Britain's Fairport Convention in the late '60s, but quickly left that band to start a couple more and then move to the US for a lengthy solo career. He has in total released close to 50 albums, including many collaborations.

We discus the title track from How Much Is Enough (2024), the title track from God Looked Down (1996), and "Road to Ronderlin" by Matthews Southern Comfort from Later That Same Year (1970). End song: "St. Theresa’s Ghost" by Ian Matthews and the Searing Quartet, from Joy Mining (2008). Intro: "Book Song" by Fairport Convention from What We Did on Our Holidays (1969). Learn more at iainmatthews.nl.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Announcement: Mark's "Core Texts in Philosophy" Fall 2025 Class

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 23:38:12 +0000

Read more about Mark's online class that starts later this month at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class, and sign up at partiallyexaminedlife.com/enroll.

PEL '24-'25 Transition Nightcap

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:52:28 +0000

Mark, Wes, Seth, and Dylan reflect on our past year of PEL recording, catch you up on our habits and interests, and talk about what might come next.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to this and every recording ad-free, plus numerous Nightcaps and many hours of other bonus content.

Learn about Mark's spring Core Texts in philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Pretty Much Pop #187: Taking Down Santa Claus

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:52:00 +0000

For our annual holiday episode, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al talk about Santa qua mythical and cultural figure, getting into the history of the character, his film appearances, and how the emphasis on kids' belief compares to religious belief. Plus, grading Xmas movies on a curve and Black Santa!

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.

Learn about Mark's Core Texts in Philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Ep. 357: Feuerbach on the Evolution of Philosophy (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 13:51:55 +0000

We finally discuss Feuerbach's proposed post-Hegelian, materialist approach to philosophy in his "Principles of the Philosophy of the Future" (1843). How can a materialist framework support phenomena central to F's account like our immediate, indubitable recognition of our selves, each other, and love itself?

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.

Sponsors: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org. Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

Learn about Mark's spring Core Texts in philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PvI#87: Mystic Toaster with Simon Critchley

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Simon is a professor at New York's New School for Social Research and moderates the New York Times' philosophy offering, The Stone. He joins Mark and Bill to discuss his new book, On Mysticism: The Experience of Ecstasy, and we used the occasion to explore how art and mysticism might be connected, including engaging in improv rituals.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the and hear this ad-free at podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

PEL Presents Subtext: The Sublime Mundane in Conrad Aiken’s “Morning Song of Senlin” (Part 1)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Where the repetitions of ordinary life threaten to overwhelm any sense of the sublime, the poet Conrad Aiken seems to suggest that they can be transformed into a way of being connected to it. The mundane order is, after all, just a part of the cosmic. When we get ready to go to work, it is on a “swiftly tilting planet” that “bathes in a flame of space.” The sun is “far off in a shell of silence,” but its light decorates the walls of our homes. We might wonder, in light of modernity’s crisis of faith, if the sublime is meant to replace the divine, and if so whether what Aiken calls “humble offerings” to a “cloud of silence” are enough. Wes & Erin discuss Aiken’s “Morning Song of Senlin,” and whether humanity’s religious impulses can be fully compensated with an aesthetic or ironic relation to nature and cosmic scale.

Ep. 357: Feuerbach on the Evolution of Philosophy (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:13:05 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Dylan continue to look at Ludwig Feuerbach's "Principles of the Philosophy of the Future" (1843), recounting his story about how increasingly mature notions of God should lead philosophy eventually to a materialism where the sensual is the real.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org. Check out the Constant Wonder podcast

Learn about Mark's spring Core Texts in philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Buy the PEL book for someone cool at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#186: From Oz Books to Wicked Film

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

We're coming up on the 125th anniversary of L. Frank Baum's children's book, The Wizard of Oz, and the film version of (the first half of) the musical Wicked has been released. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al talk about the landmark 1939 film musical, the 1978 film The Wiz, Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel Wicked, the stage musical, the other Oz books by Baum, Maguire, et al, and other films like 1985's Return to Oz and 2013's Oz the Great and Powerful.

How does this film stack up to other recent Broadway-to-film adaptations? Will there ever be a faithful film or TV adaptation of the books?

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. 356: Feuerbach Against Theology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:28:08 +0000

We dig in and start our detailed treatment of Ludwig Feuerbach's essay "Principles of the Philosophy of the Future" (1843).

Feuerbach claims that people don't realize that the entity they worship is really just whatever it is about humanity and the world that we value, wrongly posited as an independent entity. So God is a mirror for any given society.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org. Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

Learn about Mark's spring Core Texts in philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Buy the PEL book for someone cool at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents NEM#225: Loudon Wainwright III, the Reporter-Songwriter

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 20:30:00 +0000

Loudon has released 30 albums since 1970. He's the quintessential singer-songwriter, relying on crafty, personal lyrics delivered dynamically and typically solo, though his studio work has varied in production style and orchestration level over the years.

We discuss "How Old is 75" from Lifetime Achievement (2022), "Road Ode (Live)" from Career Moves (1993), and "Be Careful There’s a Baby in the House" from Album II (1971). We wrap up by listening to "Missing You" from Last Man on Earth (2001). Intro: "The Swimming Song" from Attempted Mustache (1973). Learn more at lw3.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Philosophy vs. Improv #86: Friends with App-Platter Benefits w/ Sarah Shockey and Tommy Maranges

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

It's a TEAM PLAY episode just in time for the holiday season! Returning guests improviser and podcaster Sarah and recovering Philosophy Bro Tommy join Mark and Bill to talk AND EXPERIENCE friendship, with our longest single improv scene to date. What is friendship? Do you know your friends enough to imitate them? Does one friendship or fast-casual restaurant have to die so that another may emerge?

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the and hear this ad-free at podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 356: Feuerbach Against Theology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:24:53 +0000

On Ludwig Feuerbach's "Principles of the Philosophy of the Future" (1843) and the introduction to The Essence of Christianity (1841).

What was the original point of religion? Can we retain what was emotionally good about it yet direct our efforts to purely practical matters? Feuerbach says yes, and this was a key influence on Marx.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Learn about Mark's spring Core Texts in philosophy class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PMP#185: Steve Martin: X-Tuple Threat

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Steve Martin was the biggest comic celebrity in the late '70s, became a huge movie star, and now delivers gentle comedy and fast banjo licks according to his desired rich guy schedule. In light of the popularity of Only Murders in the Building, we consider his many talents. Our 50ish hosts Mark and Sarahlyn are all in on this guy, but our 40ish hosts Lawrence and Al are not necessarily tickled.

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 SUBTEXT: The Aesthetics of Death in "Beetlejuice" (Part 1)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Adam and Barbara Maitland are dead, but their troubles have just begun. The farmhouse decor of their home is under threat from the pretentious modernism of Delia Deetze, and her plan to remake it in her own image could turn their post-life purgatory into earthbound hell. Solving this problem leaves them with an impossible choice between figuring out how to navigate an intractable netherworld bureaucracy, or seeking the help of a renegade demon whose perverse remedies are worse than what they’re supposed to cure. Their way out of this impasse involves teaming up with Delia’s step-daughter Lydia, whose goth style seems to lend itself to communicating with the dead. Wes and Erin discuss “Beetlejuice,” and what its battle royale between conflicting aesthetic sensibilities—rustic, gothic, and avant-garde—has to say about the connections between love, mortality, and the many pitfalls of growing up.

Get more at subtextpodcast.com.

Ep. 355: Marx on Alienation (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:35:26 +0000

Continuing on "Estranged Labor," "Private Property and Communism," and "The Power of Money on Bourgeois Society" with guest Lawrence Dallman.

Does capitalism give rise to alienation, or is it alienation that is responsible for capitalism? Does a person (capitalist) have to be responsible for someone's alienation? What would we be like unalienated?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a soon-to-be-released supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

Sponsors: Have up to a $100 donation to effective charities matched at GiveWell.org. Check out the Constant Wonder podcast.

PEL Presents PvI#85: Prototype Protoplasm w/ Mike Gorgone

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Mike hosts the Hitchhikers and Appetizers podcast, and we recorded this episode a bit before Halloween, before the election and the consequent mass exodus, as a sort of memo to the future, i.e. you. We blister our way through many topics including discovery, hospital dramas, time travel sex, self-experimentation, ancient aliens, sharkNATO, Flintstone furniture, the first Wisconsin Thanksgiving, Subway nation-states, and more.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the and hear this ad-free at podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 355: Marx on Alienation (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:02:20 +0000

On three of Karl Marx's Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844, "Estranged Labor," "Private Property and Communism," and "The Power of Money on Bourgeois Society." Featuring guest Lawrence Dallman.

What is the plight of the working poor? It's that they are in an unnatural situation with regard to their work, which is supposed to gain them a sense of self but doesn't do so when it's a result of selling one's time.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

If you enjoy our podcast, check out Ghost Town at ghosttownpod.com.

PREMIUM-PEL Thick-of-Fall Nightcap 2024

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth talk about horror media and what scares us in light of Halloween. We then give some follow-up discussion re. our Williamson and Chappell interviews. Do we actually want to participate in Williamson's science-minded analytic philosophy of the future? Were we too one-sided in our trans coverage? We respond to an email about our trans episode.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents (SUB)TEXT: A Strange Fashion of Forsaking in the Poetry of Thomas Wyatt (Part 1)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000

As an advisor to Henry VIII and ambassador to France and Italy, poet Thomas Wyatt was something of a professional court-surfer, practiced in riding the peaks and troughs of royal favor. Such were his verbal and diplomatic gifts that, though twice accused of and imprisoned for treason, he was twice released. His poetry reflects all the intrigue, paranoia, airlessness, and downright cruelty of the Tudor Court, where a misplaced word or an ill-timed look might see you not just out of favor, but a head shorter. In two of his most celebrated poems—which might draw upon the affair he might have had with Anne Boleyn—certainty is suspect, irony thick, allegiance changeable, and hunters apt to find they’ve become the hunted. Wes & Erin discuss Thomas Wyatt’s “Whoso List to Hunt” and “They Flee from Me.”

Get more at subtextpodcast.com.

Ep. 354: Guest Tim Williamson on Philosophic Method (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:56:08 +0000

We continue talking with Tim about Overfitting and Heuristics in Philosophy (2024), considering Tim's overall project and view of what philosophy should be doing and with what tools. We get into modeling, ethics, public philosophy, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a supporter-exclusive PEL Nightcap further reflecting on this episode.

Sponsor: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL.

Ep. 354: Guest Tim Williamson on Philosophic Method (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:38:44 +0000

Oxford philosophy professor Timothy Williamson talks to us about his new book, Overfitting and Heuristics in Philosophy.

How can we best apply the insights of philosophy of science to philosophy itself? Maybe some alleged philosophical counter-examples are just the result of psychological heuristics gone wrong.

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.

PEL Presents #184: !BREAKING! Comedy News

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Many people use shows like Last Week Tonight or The Daily Show to not just satirize the news but to provide us with our news. Late night shows, SNL, and many other shows get in on this, and conservative media is catching up via Gutfield! How does the comedy news format relate to panel shows, podcasts, and other light-hearted political talk?

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#84: Interesting? w/ Lorraine Besser

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 16:41:45 +0000

Lorraine teaches at Middlebury college and has recently written The Art of the Interesting: What We Miss in Our Pursuit of the Good Life and How to Cultivate It. How does "the interesting" fit into human flourishing? How do we know when some attractive stimulation is really in our interest and really good?

Can we find something interesting even the most tedious, repetitive tasks? Is it interesting to start an improv scene by declaring that your scene-mates are dealing with alcoholism and divorce? Certainly it is rude. Also, Happiness 12 Step Programs.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 353: Reid on Visual Knowledge (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 13:37:59 +0000

Concluding our treatment of "Of Seeing" in Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense.

We continue to hammer at this idea of "resemblance" between mental contents and physical objects, consider more carefully Reid's level of support for the primary/secondary quality distinction, how he treats non-signifying feelings like pain and warmth, and his comparison of sense experience to testimony.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsor: Check out the Constant Wonder podcast.

Have you subscribed to the other podcasts by PEL hosts? Check out Closereads, Philosophy vs. Improv, SUBTEXT, Nakedly Examined Music, and Pretty Much Pop. Buy the PEL book.

PEL Presents NEM#224: Steve Dawson (Dolly Varden) Elevates Americana

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Steve fronted Chicago's Dolly Varden for six albums from the '90s through 2013. He also started releasing albums under his own name 2003 and has just released his seventh.

We discuss "A Mile South of Town" (and listen at the end to "Oh, California") from Ghosts (2024), the title track from The Dumbest Magnets by Dolly Varden (2000), and "Bronko Nagurski," a 1989 recording by the early iteration of Varden, Stump the Host. Intro: "Saskatchewan to Chicago" by Dolly Varden from For a While (2013). More at stevedawsonmusic.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 353: Reid on Visual Knowledge (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:09:54 +0000

We're continuing our treatment of Thomas Reid's Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense (1764), now discussing ch. 6: "Of Seeing."

Does vision provide the exception to Reid's point that our sensations do not resemble objects in the world? Images surely seem to do so! What does this mean for Reid's epistemology?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL.

PEL Presents PMP#183: Classic Universal Monster Movies

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 17:00:00 +0000

It's our Halloween episode! Brooker Nourse from the Autopsy of a Horror Movie podcast joins the gang about a wave of 1930's films including Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Invisible Man. Are these actually enjoyable to modern audiences?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Presents PvI#83: Half Philosophizing (Season 4 Premiere)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the beginning of a new round of shenanigans on Philosophy vs. Improv. Let the senior slump begin!

Your hosts Mark Linsenmayer and Bill Arnett here talk a blazin' stream of consciousness and then have a pretty long improv scene. Are we already always philosophizing?

Watch the proceedings unedited on YouTube.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. Check out other Evergreen Podcast offerings.

Ep. 352: Thomas Reid on Smelling and Knowledge (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:44:51 +0000

Continuing on Inquiry into the Human Mind, getting further into the chapter on smelling as well as the conclusion and Reid's exchange with Hume.

What exactly is our relation with objects in the world according to Reid?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Love Dishonored in Euripides' "Medea" - Part 6

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Wes & Erin continue their discussion of Ancient Greece’s most notorious battle of the sexes, and Euripides’ rumination on the question of whether the Athenian ideals of rationality and moderation sufficiently honor the instinctual side of human nature.

Ep. 352: Thomas Reid on Smelling and Knowledge (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:54:43 +0000

On Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense (1764): the introduction, conclusion, ch. 2 "Of Smelling" ch. 4 "Of Hearing," and some correspondence between Reid and Hume.

According to Reid, the big mistake of "modern" philosophy is thinking that objects in the world need to resemble the sensations we have of them. Smelling is supposed to give us an obvious counter-example: the scent of a rose in no way resembles a physical rose.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Check out the Constant Wonder podcast.

PEL Presents PMP#182: Tim Burton: Shtick Macabre

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 03:00:00 +0000

In light of the new Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, we discuss the films of director (and occasional writer) Tim Burton since his career was firmly established by his early work in the '80s including the original 1988 Beetlejuice.

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al have very mixed reactions to the new film, but we agree that the animation style that characterizes his vision is very rich and has had a massive cultural impact. We discuss his stop-motion work, his Batman films, his Disney commissions, and more.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PREMIUM-Ep. 351: Sophie Grace Chappell on Transgender (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 19:37:07 +0000

Mark, Seth and Dylan continue talking about philosophy surrounding trans phenomena in light of our interview with Sophie Grace about Trans Figured.

In this supporter-exclusive discussion, we get into sex and gender as cluster concepts, ethical theory in equity discussions, and the practical matters you'd expect: sports participation, pronouns, bathrooms and dress codes.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support. This full episode can also be purchased a la carte at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife.

Ep. 351: Guest Sophie Grace Chappell on Transgender (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:48:24 +0000

Mark, Seth, and Dylan interview this British philosophy prof about her new book, Trans Figured, and philosophy's role in discussing transgender.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Part two of this episode (with just the PEL guys) will only be available to PEL supporters. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to this along with our massive package of ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsors: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL. Try the Chutzpod podcast at chutzpod.com.

PEL Presents NEM#223: Dale Crover (Melvins) the Accidentalist

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Though Dale is known as the long-time drummer for Washington sludge-metal band Melvins ('88-present), he's also a guitarist and singer who led the band Altamont though four alternative rock albums ('97-'05) and has now released his third full-length, stylistically varied solo album.

We discuss "I Quit" from Glossolalia (2024), "Bad Move" from The Fickle Finger of Fate (2017), and "The Bit" by Melvins from Stag (1996). End song: "El Stupido" by Altamont from The Monkees' Uncle (2005). Intro: "Spread Eagle Beagle" by Melvins from Houdini (1993). More at dalecrover.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

If you like our podcast, check out Heavy Metal 101.

Ep. 350: Rorty on Justification and Essentialism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:13:46 +0000

Concluding on "Universality and Truth" from Richard Rorty's Pragmatism As Anti-Authoritarianism. It it coherent to simply not have a theory of truth? Rorty claims that he's not a relativist; he's just avoiding some useless parts of philosophy that just cause problems, including inculcating the respect for a non-human absolute, and this attitude undermines democracy.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsor: Check out the Constant Wonder podcast.

PEL Presents PvI#82: LIVE in Personability w/ James Whittington

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Chicago's iO Theater was graced on August 21 by Mark, Bill, and special guest theater educator James Whittington, who spoke about embodiment (see Maurice Merleau-Ponty), the possible disconnect between meaning and tone, and being in the physical presence of greatness. They acted out scenes (while still sitting!) about an unsuccessful party and Experiences-R-Us.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast at philosophyimprov.com/support. You may choose to watch the proceedings live on stage.

Sponsor: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at betterhelp.com/improv.

Ep. 350: Rorty on Justification and Essentialism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:36:19 +0000

On "Universality and Truth" and "Pan-Relationalism," which are lectures 3-5 in Richard Rorty's Pragmatism As Anti-Authoritarianism.

How do we justify democracy? Rorty says we don't have to refer to transcendent Truth or Good to do this. He also denies the disinction between essential and accidental properties, and in fact between substance and property: Everything is just described in terms of its relations to other things, and which relations are important are not intrinsic to the thing, but a matter of a speaker's purposes.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

If you like our podcast, try the Saga Thing podcast.

PEL Presents PMP#181: M. Night Shyamalan's Films Are a Trap

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

In light of the new film Trap, we look at this writer/director's oeuvre. Was he a bright light (The Sixth Sense) that at one point went out (certainly by The Happening), and has that light gone back on as he's regained full control in his most recent films (Knock at the Cabin, The Visit, et al.)? Is he a genius, overrated, or somehow both?

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al disagree both about Trap and about the overall Shyamalan experience.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at betterhelp.com/pretty. Try a new podcast: Today In History With the Retrospectors at podfollow.com/retrospectors.

PEL Presents NEM#222: Amy Rigby's Nostalgic Simplicity

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Amy started out as an NYC punk fan, was in the "cow punk" band Last Roundup with her brother, and then in a vocal trio called The Shams that released an album and an EP around 1993. She finally emerged as a full front-person as a solo artist in 1997; she's since released nine solo albums plus three more with her husband Wreckless Eric, who now serves as her producer.

We discuss "Bricks" from Hang In There With Me (2024), "Genovese Bag" by Amy Rigby and Wreckless Eric from A Working Museum (2012), and "Beer and Kisses" from Diary of a Mod Housewife (1997). End song: "Dancing with Joey Ramone" from Little Fugitive (2005). Intro: "Dark Angel" by The Shams from Quilt (1993). More at amyrigby.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at betterhelp.com/nakedly.

Ep. 349: Rorty's Pluralistic Pragmatism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:47:11 +0000

Continuing on Richard Rorty's Pragmatism As Anti-Authoritarianism, ch. 1, "Pragmatism and Religion" and 2, "Pragmatism as Romantic Polytheism."

Rorty evaluates past pragmatists' approaches to religion, arguing contra James that it can't be "privatized," that democratic social goals involve shared rationality, which means that all of our beliefs are open to the judgment of our peers.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsors: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL. Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/partially and get 10% off your first month.

PREMIUM-Closereads: Merleau-Ponty on the Body

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

We begin a long series on Maurice Merleau-Ponty's "Phenomenology of Perception" (1945), focusing on Part I, "The Body": "Experience and Objective Thought."

To get the whole recording, you can become a PEL Citizen, or simply go subscribe to the Closereads: Philosophy with Mark and Wes podcast at closereadsphilosophy.com. You can also watch the proceedings on YouTube. To get future parts of our treatment of this text, you'll need to support Closereads, either at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy, or combine your support for PEL and Closereads at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife.

Ep. 349: Rorty's Pluralistic Pragmatism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 05:29:09 +0000

On Richard Rorty's Pragmatism As Anti-Authoritarianism (1997), ch. 1-2 about religion. Should democracy be defended on absolutist grounds, e.g. by reference to God-given or natural rights, the nature of Man, or the dictates of Reason?

Rorty says no! Democracy, ethics, and even truth itself are a matter for societies to decide for themselves. Monotheistic religion provides a negative model for ceding authority on these matters no something non-human.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#180: Season Four Wrap: Nostalgia

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

As Pretty Much Pop ends its 5th year of podcasting, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al break from our usual format to talk in a more free-form way about the thin line between the "new" media we talk about on the show and the classics of yesteryear.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 348: Tim Williamson's Knowledge-First Epistemology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:16:41 +0000

Continuing on "Knowledge First Epistemology" (2011), "Justifications, Excuses, and Sceptical Scenarios" (2015), and "Morally Loaded Cases in Philosophy" (2019).

How does knowledge-first epistemology relate to reliabilism? What are its moral implications? Does W. have a good argument against relativism and skepticism?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content.

PREMIUM-PEL End-of-Summer Nightcap 2024

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Dylan again talk politics, including conspiracy theorist psychology, whether post-modernism is responsible for current "post-truth" discourse on the Right (see the PvI David Shields episode), our previous guest John Ganz who now has a bestselling book, and finally the relief at actually having some Presidential choice that is not past their expiration date.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 348: Tim Williamson's Knowledge-First Epistemology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:42:47 +0000

On "Knowledge First Epistemology" (2011), "Justifications, Excuses, and Sceptical Scenarios" (2015), and "Morally Loaded Cases in Philosophy" (2019).

Is knowledge basic, or is it dissolvable into more basic ingredients such as justification, truth, and belief? Williamson argues that these latter things should instead be defined in terms of knowledge.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL.

PEL Presents PMP#179: Deadpool Gets Meta

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 18 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

We discuss the Deadpool films in light of the new Deadpool & Wolverine, which leaves the fourth wall thoroughly smashed. Is the new film just a meta-text about the existence of other Marvel films? Is this just a particularly irreverent phase in superhero films (contra Christopher Nolan Batman seriousness)? Featuring Mark, Sarah, Al, Lawrence, and Al.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Save 10% on your first month of online therapy at betterhelp.com/pretty. Check out the Let Me Ask My Dad podcast.

PEL Presents NEM#221: David Nagler Goes Brazilian

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The New York-based singer/keyboardist/guitarist had several releases with Nova Social from '98-'14 while also serving as music director for Wesley Stace's Cabinet of Wonders variety show. After four solo releases, he's formed a new project setting his droll lyrics in a '60s Brazilian setting called As For the Future.

We discuss "Koan for the Music Business" (and listen at the end to "Encyclopedia of Songs") from this project's 2024 self-titled album, "See the Devil" from Songs of Advice and Adversity (2020 EP), and "Drunk at the Prom" by Nova Social from For Any Inconvenience (2011). Intro: "Theme in Yellow" (feat. Jeff Tweedy) from Carl Sandburg's Chicago Poems (2016). More at davidnagler.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at betterhelp.com/nakedly. Check out the Let Me Ask My Dad podcast w/ Bon Jovi co-founder David Bryan.

Ep. 347: Nyaya Sutra Against Buddhist Skeptics (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:37:14 +0000

Mark, Seth, and Dylan now turn to ch. 4 of Dasti/Phillips' Nyaya Sutra: Selections with Early Commentaries about the self. Buddhism famously claims that there is no self, and the Nyaya philosophers respond with both common-sensical arguments (e.g. psychological properties must be possessed by something) and religious (without a soul, what persists through reincarnation?).

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion. Listen to a preview.

Sponsor: Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/partially and get 10% off your first month.

PEL Presents PvI#80: Brief, Alternative Facts with David Shields

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Internationally best-selling author David wrote a book (and made a film) called How We Got Here, which traces the gradual path in the history of ideas from the ancients through various forms of perspectivism, relativism, and post-modernism to the post-truth discourse that authoritarians and wanna-be authoritarians engage in. Some improv scenes are inserted awkwardly into the discussion.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com. See us live Wed. 8/21, 6pm at iO Theater, Chicago.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Try online therapy at betterhelp.com/improv.

Announcement: Philosophy vs. Improv Live in Chicago on Wed. 8/21

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark and Bill (with a special improvising philosopher guest) will be recording our PvI season finale live on stage at the iO Theater (aka The Freemont) in Chicago at 1501 N Kingsbury St, on Wednesday, Aug. 21 from 6-7pm. Please come join us!

This is a FREE SHOW, with no need to buy tickets in advance and plenty of street parking. After watching us, stick around for Bill's regular Wednesday improv show, Green Room.

Ep. 346: Nyaya Sutra Against Buddhist Skeptics (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 13:07:39 +0000

We're continuing to explore Nyaya epistemology, in this part focusing on ch. 3, "In Defense of the Real," in Nyaya Sutra: Selections with Early Commentaries (2017).

Sponsors: Apply for convenient term life insurance from Fabric by Gerber Life at meetfabric.com/PEL. Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Time is short for your enrollment in Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy fall class; see partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about the PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents NEM#220: Jah Wobble's Bass Worship

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

John Wardle (named Jah Wobble by Sid Vicious) started playing bass in John Lydon's post Sex Pistols band Public Image Ltd. in 1978, left after two albums, and has since recorded 50+ solo and collaborative albums, largely led by the bass, but spanning many genres including some particularly famous work in the world-music area.

We discuss "Last Exit" from A Brief History of Now (2023), "21 Towards Lewisham Shopping Centre" from The Bus Routes of South London (2023), "Fly Away" from Jah Wobble & Invaders of the Heart from Ocean Blue Waves (2019), and "Blowout" (a 1985 single). End song: "Visions of You" by Jah Wobble’s Invaders of the Heart (feat Sinéad O'Connor) from Rising Above Bedlam (1991). Intro: "Public Image" by PiL from First Issue (1978).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 346: Nyaya Sutra on Knowledge (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:25:01 +0000

Continuing on ch. 1, "Knowledge Sources," of the Matthew Dasti/Stephen Phillips presentation of the Nyaya-Sutra: Selections with Early Commentaries.

We finish up perception and then talk about inference and testimony. Are these all independent sources, or do they, e.g. all reduce ultimately to perception as Western empiricists claim?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Enrollment is now open for Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy fall class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about the PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#178: The Bear's Incomplete Dish

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000

We discuss Christopher Storer's culinary dramedy in light of the release of its strange third season. What made this a uniquely wonderful show in its first season? Is the unsatisfying character of this season just a matter of its being only the first half of what was originally planned? We talk about the flashbacks, the cameos, the comedy, "food porn," and more.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear 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 Pop Pantheon podcast.

PEL Presents PvI#79: Edificial Intentions with Danny Mora

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Danny was in a sketch troupe called Maximum Party Zone with your improv host Bill, and they've now revived that trio to create the MPZ Listening Party podcast, which workshops sketch ideas in real time as a fun form of conversation. So we try out their shtick, combining two properties (The Apprentice and Argyle) and brainstorming about serial killer branding.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Try online therapy at betterhelp.com/improv.

Ep. 346: Nyaya Sutra on Knowledge (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:00:35 +0000

On The Nyaya Sutra: Selections with Early Commentaries, originally by Gautama (ca. 150 CE), plus explanations by Vatsyayana (450 CE), Uddyotakara (550), and Vācaspatimiśra (900), and the editors Matthew Dasti and Stephen Phillips (2017).

We discuss "knowledge sources," mostly in this part the various kinds of perception, which is supposed to be inerrant and non-linguistic. Illusions aren't bad perceptions; they aren't perceptions at all.

Check out Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy fall class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about the PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#177: Inside Out - Animated Psyche

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000

We discuss the 2015 and 2024 Pixar films by writer/director Pete Docter , featuring the usual crew of Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al.

These films show kids that it's OK to be sad and how to cope with anxiety. Is the films' emotional impact objectionably manipulative? Does the "mental landscape" depicted helpfully represent the various elements we juggle, or is it just a fun pile of metaphors?

Sponsors: Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/pretty. Immerse in GoT/House of the Dragon at historyofwesteros.com.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 345: William James on Religious Experience (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 11:03:52 +0000

Continuing on The Varieties of Religious Experience (1902). Does James' claim that science and culture shouldn't ignore the subjective point of view really mean that the religious objects that motivate people are metaphysically real? Is the "unseen realm" part of our common world?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/partially. Check out The Overwhelmed Brain podcast at theoverwhelmedbraincom.

Check out Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy fall class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents NEM#219: Oliver Wakeman Beyond the Keyboard

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Oliver, son of Rick, has played on around 50 albums, including maybe 10 solo albums plus collaborations with Clive Nolan, Steve Howe, Gordon Giltrap, Yes, Starcastle, Light Freedom Revival, and more.

We discuss "Golden Sun in Grey" from Anam Cara (2024), "Is This the Last Song I Write?" from Ravens and Lullabies (2013), and "Mind Over Matter" from The 3 Ages of Magick (2001). End song: "To the Moment" by Yes from From a Page (recorded 2010, released 2019). Intro: "Diving" from Heaven’s Isle (1997). More at oliverwakeman.co.uk.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/nakedly.

Announcement: Mark's "Big Books in Continental Philosophy" Fall 2024 Class

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 23:44:44 +0000

Do you want to wrestle yourself with some of the weirdest and most engaging texts in philosophical history? Do you want to do this in a beginner-friendly environment with a familiar voice guiding you and sharp fellow learners? Consider signing up for Mark's Fall class, and experience Hegel, Sartre, Arendt, and more first hand in a supportive, low-risk environment.

See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class for details.

Ep. 345: William James on Religious Experience (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 01:46:42 +0000

On The Varieties of Religious Experience (1902), focusing on lectures 1-3 and 20. What is religion and how should philosophers study it?

James describes it as a sincere, full-life reaction to the world, more emotional than intellectual, and conveys the experiences of the extreme "religious geniuses" that are merely received second or third hand by the believing masses.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Check out Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy fall class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PvI#78: We Essence Merge with Tamler Sommers (Very Bad Wizards)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Tamler teaches philosophy at The University of Houston and hosts the Very Bad Wizards podcast. He joins Mark and Bill to talk about personal identity and whether the "self" is necessarily co-extensive with a particular body. Plus: meditation, Daniel Day Improv's method acting, All of Me vs. Regarding Henry, what does "metaphysics" mean to YOU, dreams as improv, unstuck-in-time Grandma the last slaveholder, and more.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

PREMIUM-PEL Mid-Summer Nightcap 2024

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth talk about worries about the utility of various subgenres or explanation types in philosophy, Dr. Drew's recent interview with Seth and Seth's writing project about non-linguistic communication, accuracy in historical or scientific details in philosophy, and our current political moment (our candidate choices, the debate, etc.).

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 344: Gettier and Goldman on Justified True Belief (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 11:59:59 +0000

On "What Is Justified Belief?" (1979) by Alvin Goldman, where he tries to come up with a "function" for justification: If a belief has such-and-such non-epistemic properties, then it counts as justified.

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.

Learn about Mark's Big Books in Continental Philosophy Fall online class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class. Learn about the PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#176: Furiosa: Are We Mad Maxed Out?

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the five films in George Miller's Mad Max/Road Warrior franchise. What was the original appeal of the series, and has this changed? Are we still afraid of an "Apunkalypse," or is this just an aesthetic to be ripped off by Fallout and other properties? How can films 80% occupied by car chases be actually good? Is Mad Max an icon a la Indiana Jones, and is there actual world building in this series?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Presents NEM#218: Pat Mastelotto: Prog Neanderthal Drum-Painting

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 29 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Pat has been a session drummer since the mid '70s, was a founding member of Mr. Mister in the '80s, and played in all line-ups of King Crimson since '94. He's also a producer and no stranger to electronics.

We discuss "31" by Tu-Ner from T-1 Contact Information (2023), "Flinch" by TUNER from Totem (2005), "Life Goes On" by Mr. Mister from I Wear the Face (1984), and we conclude by listening to "Prog Noir" by Stick Men (2016). Intro: "Vroom Vroom" by King Crimson from Thrak (1995).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 344: Gettier and Goldman on Justified True Belief (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 23 Jun 2024 12:38:57 +0000

On "Is Justified True Belief Knowledge?" (1963) by Edmund Gettier, "What Is Justified Belief?" (1979) by Alvin Goldman, and "The Inescapability of Gettier Problems" (1994) by Linda Zagzebski.

What is knowledge? Even if a belief is true and justified, does that make it knowledge? Gettier came up with exceptions, and other philosophers tried to figure out how to revise "justification" to rule these out.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PvI #77: Fashionation with Sheri Flanders

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The actor/writer/comedian joins us to talk about the philosophy of fashion, from the ancients to the present: Is clothing a mode of self-expression or something more (or less)? What does retro fashion say about the current state of culture? Are philosophers anti-fashion, and is that sexist? What color wedding dress is best for an arranged marriage? Are improv scenes like tissues?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Pretty Much Pop #175: Podcast of the Planet of the Apes

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 21:16:00 +0000

We discuss the ten films that all started with the 1968 Charlton Heston vehicle (based on Pierre Boulle's 1963 novel) through the latest offering, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. What psychologically are these films about? Which parts of this sprawling franchise are worth your time?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 343: Plotinus the Neo-Platonist (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 02:48:45 +0000

Continuing with guest Chris Sunami, mostly discussing "The Good or The One," though we start off by completing "The Descent of the Soul" about why there is something rather than nothing, given that materiality is so undesirable compared to The One.

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 coming out this week.

Sponsor: Check out the Subtitle podcast at subtitlepod.com.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

Psychedelic Regrets in "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" (Part 5)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 15 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Wes & Erin continue their discussion of "Rime of the Ancient Mariner."

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, HelloFresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/subtextapps for free appetizers for life.

PEL Presents NEM#217: Richard Thompson's Moments in Time

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Richard started as guitarist in the folk-rock staple Fairport Convention in 1967 but left in 1970 after five albums. He then recorded his debut solo album, six as Richard and Linda Thompson, and has since recorded 20 more solo albums of lyrically inventive, stylistically varied tunes that nearly always feature very skilled guitar work.

We discuss "Freeze," the first single from his new album Ship to Shore, "The Ghost of You Walks" from You? Me? Us? (1996), and "Don't Take It Lying Down" from Still/Variations EP (2015). End song: "When I Get to the Border" by Richard and Linda Thompson from I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight (1974). Intro: "1952 Vincent Black Lightning" from Rumor and Sigh (1991). More at richardthompson-music.com .

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

PEL Presents PvI#76: Hello, Larry w/ Lawrence Ware

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The philosopher and entertainment journalist direct from Mark's Pretty Much Pop podcast joins PvI for an hour of merriment. We talk parenthood, philosophy of race, the RULES of improv (or the singular answer to a philosophy question), old 9th graders, one black Peggy, using racy improv in a classroom setting, and more.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Ep. 343: Plotinus the Neo-Platonist (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 16:14:25 +0000

On selections from the Enneads (270 C.E.), as presented by Elmer O'Brien as the first four essays in The Essential Plotinus: "Beauty," "The Intelligence, Ideas and Being," "The Descent of the Soul," and "The Good or The One." Featuring Mark, Wes, Dylan, Seth, and guest Chris Sunami.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

If you like our show, check out the Fearvana podcast.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book (which Chris edited).

Psychedelic Regrets in "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" (Part 4)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Wes & Erin continue their discussion of "Rime of the Ancient Mariner."

Ep. 342: Zhuangzi on Knowledge and Virtue (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:25:55 +0000

We're concluding our treatment of the Daoist sage, focusing on the relation between metaphysics and ethics. Is a "wu wei" (non-action) philosophy compatible with fighting for justice? Does it even necessitate kindness?

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.

Information on our book is available at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

Listen to Mark's new band, including the ending song to this episode, "I Insist," at marklint.bandcamp.com.

PEL Presents PMP#174: Fallout Plays Post-Apocalyptic

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 02 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn and Al discuss the new Amazon TV show based on on the video game series that launched in 1997. How does one best adapt a sandbox game? How dark is too dark for comedy? We talk world-building and exposition dumps, narrative structure and character revelation, and morality in a ruined world.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 342: Zhuangzi on Knowledge and Virtue (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 May 2024 11:06:42 +0000

More on the Zhuangzi, books 1-6 and 17-19 with guest Theo Brooks.

We discuss epistemology (Can we know the mind of someone else? How can virtue make truth more accessible?), metaphysics (Is the world constantly changing such that we can't actually refer to anything? Does each thing somehow contain its opposite in virtue of being defined by its contrast with all that it is not?), and ethics (What constitutes the Utmost Person, i.e. the sage?).

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents NEM#216: Kim Richey Learns to Cherish Collaboration

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 May 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Kim has recorded about ten meticulously recorded country-evolving-to Americana albums out of Nashville since 1995. We discuss "Joy Rider" (and listen at the end to "Floating on the Surface") from Every New Beginning (2024), "A Place Called Home" from Rise (2002), and "I’m Alright" from Bitter Sweet (1997), which is also the home of the intro, "Every River." More at kimrichey.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Closereads: Zhuangzi, Ch. 19: "Fathoming Life" (aka PEL Ep. 341 Supplemental)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 19 May 2024 21:25:10 +0000

Mark and Wes read through and discuss the first couple of pages of ch. 19, "Fathoming Life,"

How does Daoism compare to Stoicism, Aristotelianism, and Existentialism? How can being a Daoist sage keep one from harm? How is a really effective cicada catcher such a sage?

Get more on Zhuangzi at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Sign up for the new Closereads public feed at evergreen.com/closereadsphilosophy, and check out Evergreen's other cool shows. For an ad-free experience with many extra episodes, sign up to support Closereads at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy, or combine your support for PEL and Closereads at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents SUBTEXT - Psychedelic Regrets in "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" (Part 1)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 19 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

The ancient Mariner kills his Albatross with a carelessness that stands in stark contrast to his impulse for confession. For several days he and his shipmates feed the albatross, play with it, and treat it as if it were inhabited by a “Christian soul.” The mariner never tells the wedding guest why it is that he kills the bird, but the casual and seemingly unmotivated act is followed by a psychedelic nightmare that gives us some clues. Why do we rebel against our position within the natural world, even to the point of self-destruction? What is required to restore us? Today we discuss Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s classic poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.”

Pretty Much Pop #173: Cowboy Beyoncé? (Cross-Genre Music)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 18 May 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al look at pop music and the idea of genre. Beyoncé is beloved enough that she can do whatever she wants to musically, but the response to her Cowboy Carter album among country music listeners has been pretty critical. Is it real country, and what is it to even ask that question? Is gate-keeping about your favorite genre always stupid?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals and 20% off your next box at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50).

Ep. 341: Guest Karyn Lai on Daoism in the Zhuangzi

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 May 2024 03:47:13 +0000

Mark, Dylan, Seth, and Theo Brooks discuss the Zhuangzi (ca. 325 BCE) UNSW Sydney prof. Karyn, co-author of the History of Philosophy Podcast Chinese series.

We talk through Daoist advice about virtue, political action, perspectivism, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PvI#75: The Alien Literally Has Two Faces w/ Bran Peacock

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 11 May 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The Hitchhikers and Appetizers co-host joins Mark and Bill to talk about cultural relativism. We talk about foreign-ness, what parts of ethics seem to apply to all cultures, the Museum of Soup, pushing back tactfully in a scene, and more. In my culture, listening to this episode while in a work meeting is polite.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Ep. 340: Brian Ellis on the Implications of Essentialism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 May 2024 11:59:27 +0000

Concluding on The Philosophy of Nature: A Guide to the New Essentialism (2002) with guest Chris Heath.

Are we OK with the metaphysical necessity of natural laws? How do Ellis' mind-independent fundamental objects in the world relate to higher level things, whether biological species or human nature or even things like colors?

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.

Get the new PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents NEM#215: Lynn Drury's New Orleans Emotionality

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 04 May 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Singer-songwriter Lynn has released 10 albums since 2001. We discuss the title track (and listen at the end to "I Waited Too Long") from High Tide (2024), "11:11" from Rise of the Fall (2017), and "Drugstore" from Crossing Frequencies (2001). Intro: "City Life" from Sugar on the Floor (2011). Hear more at lynndrury.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 340: Brian Ellis on the Implications of Essentialism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 03:27:04 +0000

Continuing on The Philosophy of Nature: A Guide to the New Essentialism.

Ellis' essentialism about physics and chemistry says that, for example, atoms of various elements are truly and unambiguously different and behave in ways that make them what they are. What does this entail?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#172: Curb Larry David's Shtick

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The incredible post-Seinfeld improvised sit-com Curb Your Enthusiasm has had its finale, and so Mark, Lawrence, Sarah and Al reflect on its format, its characters, its way of exploring puzzles of modern manners, its treatment of race and gender, and more. Was it too repetitive? Did it get too contrived?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50).

PEL 15th Anniversary and Book Release

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 11:29:09 +0000

Your four hosts plus book editor Chris Sunami reflect on doing the podcast for 15 years and making the new book, which you should order on April 25.

Plus, the three rules, future ambitions, and more.

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.

Learn more about the book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

NEM#214: Head vs. Gut Songwriting w/ Roger Joseph Manning Jr., David Christian, Rachel Taylor Brown

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:47:00 +0000

It's a new, discussion-only format, just for this episode (and perhaps some rare ones in the future)! When we write, how much is planned vs. improvised? How much is inspirational vs. double-or-triple checked? How does this factor weigh into how much music we release, how eclectic our sound is, and how well we improvise with others?

This discussion features three returning guests:

Roger Joseph Manning Jr. was the keyboardist/singer for Jellyfish and Imperial Drag, and more recently as a solo artist and with the Likerish Quartet. Hear his solo episode. The end song on this episode "I'm Startin' a Band" from his Radio Daze EP (2023).
David Christian is the singer/guitarist for Britain's Comet Gain. Hear his solo episode. The intro music to this discussion is "Love and Hate on the Radio" from Radio Sessions 1996-2011.
Portland-based Rachel Taylor Brown has released 10 solo albums. Hear her solo episode. Her song choice relevant to this discussion was "Stagg Field."

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

PMP-NEM Crossover: Head vs. Gut Songwriting w/ Roger Joseph Manning Jr., David Christian, Rachel Taylor Brown

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:43:00 +0000

When we write, how much is planned vs. improvised? How much is inspirational vs. double-or-triple checked? How does this factor weigh into how much music we release, how eclectic our sound is, and how well we improvise with others?

This discussion features three returning guests:

Roger Joseph Manning Jr. was the keyboardist/singer for Jellyfish and Imperial Drag, and more recently as a solo artist and with the Likerish Quartet. Hear his solo episode. The end song on this episode "I'm Startin' a Band" from his Radio Daze EP (2023).
David Christian is the singer/guitarist for Britain's Comet Gain. Hear his solo episode. The intro music to this discussion is "Love and Hate on the Radio" from Radio Sessions 1996-2011.
Portland-based Rachel Taylor Brown has released 10 solo albums. Hear her solo episode. Her song choice relevant to this discussion was "Stagg Field."

Sponsor: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50).

Sponsor:

Philosophy vs. Improv #74: A Psychedelic Embrace with David Peña-Guzmán (Overthink)

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 17:20:39 +0000

David is co-host of the excellent Overthink podcast, popular among the young people today, and so we have him monologue to children as an anti (?) drug speaker. How can drugs change us, our sense of self, and the ways we see the world? Can some drugs be considered "natural"? Also, legally defensible drug use at work, and Nancy Reagan the Heel.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Ep. 339: Brian Ellis on the Metaphysics of Science (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 13:53:24 +0000

Continuing on The Philosophy of Nature: A Guide to the New Essentialism (2002) with guest Chris Heath.

We get further into the text about metaphysical realism, criteria for a natural kind, properties vs. predicates, and much more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about the new PEL book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book. Make a note on your calendar to purchase it on Thursday, April 25.

Ep. 339: Brian Ellis on the Metaphysics of Science (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:23:39 +0000

On The Philosophy of Nature: A Guide to the New Essentialism (2002). What kind of metaphysics underlies chemistry and physics? Ellis argues that items such as chemical elements and physical particles have essences, and that these essential properties determine their behavior, which is characterized by scientific laws. Thus, these laws are necessary; they apply in all possible worlds.

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.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

Pretty Much Pop #171: The Traitors - A Multi-National Reality Game Show Phenom

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the American version, and to a lesser extent the British and Australian versions, of this reality game show that originated in 2021 in the Netherlands, based on the party game Mafia (aka Werewolf), plus Survivor-like challenges and a gothic tone.

How does such a simple (stupid?) concept end up creating compelling TV? Are we cruel for liking this show? Is it better suited to hardened reality game show players, or with normal people? What's the role of the host, and is Alan Cumming the best possible one?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 338: Aristotle on Potential vs. Actual and the Unmoved Mover (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 13:31:00 +0000

To conclude our discussion of Aristotle's Metaphysics, we finish discussing potency by talking about the potential to learn (the Meno problem), the metaphysical priority of the actual over the merely potential, and how the Unmoved Mover motivates all primary beings to strive toward their full actualization.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents NEM#213: Paul Chastain (Velvet Crush): Flavors of Brightness

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Illinois singer/bassist Paul had his first release in 1985 and joined with drummer Ric Menck to form a band eventually called Velvet Crush, which released six albums from 1991-2004. He has since played in Matthew Sweet's band and has released two albums under the name The Small Square.

We discuss "Can't Let Go (Oh, Tommy)" by The Small Square from Ours & Others (2023), "California Incline" by Velvet Crush from Stereo Blues (2004), and "Flower Field" by Choo Choo Train from Briar Rose EP (1988). Intro: "Hold Me Up" by Velvet Crush from Teenage Symphonies to God (1994). End song: "SML" from The Small Square (2015, remastered 2023). More at smallsquaremusic.com and actionmusik.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 338: Aristotle on Potential vs. Actual and the Unmoved Mover (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:45:13 +0000

We read portions of books 9 (Theta) and 12 (Lambda) of Aristotle's Metaphysics, first on "being-at-work" (actuality) vs. mere potency, then on Aristotle's famous argument for the existence of God.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Buy Philosophers on God: Talking about Existence feat. Dan Dennett, William Lane Craig, et al.

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PvI #73: Family Whêtspät w/ Colleen Doyle

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 17:00:00 +0000

The co-host of the Those Who Aunt podcast joins Mark and Bill to joke about the family as the fundamental political unit and its special place in ethics. On the flip side, what questions should you ask yourself about your character at the start of a scene? Plus, Jan. 6, Platonic eugenics, transcending physical desire, a story that doesn't quite get started, a military upbringing, and the real Cheff. Papa will give you all the same name and make you listen to every episode of this podcast, because he loves you.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap w/ Chris Sunami (March 2024)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Seth, and Dylan are joined by the editor of our new book (see partiallyexaminedlife.com/book) to talk a bit about his background, meeting celebrities (or being met qua celebrity) and more generally how a writer or performer's real personality relates to their work, various things we're reading and watching, scientists' attitudes towards philosophy, and the usual musings about future episodes.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 337: Aristotle on Primary Being (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:59:18 +0000

Continuing on Aristotle's Metaphysics, Book 7 (Zeta), on essences and what sorts of things have them.

Contrasting with Plato, Aristotle believes that some changing, visible things have forms. How do they get them? Well, they're received from some previous thing that has a comparable form, e.g. a child from its parents, or perhaps a form could come from a creator's mind.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Get 50% off delicious, ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pel50 (code pel50).

Learn about our new book at partiallyexaminedlife.com/book.

PEL Presents PMP#170: Poor Things and Other Yorgos

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

We discuss the 4-Oscar-winning film Poor Things as well as the other creations of writer/director Yorgos Lanthimos, including most notably The Lobster, Dogtooth, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer. These films mix high concepts, purposively stilted line-readings, and increasingly rich cinematography with horror and gross sex.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50).

PvI#72: Spock Fever w/ Cole Nasrallah and Chris Rathjen

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:32:00 +0000

It's another TEAM PLAY episode, with our returning champions, star of improv stages and podcasts Chris and College of Southern Nevada philosophy prof Cole receiving NOT THE INFORMATION THEY EXPECT and gettin' all rational and such when consoling a friend and wrangling about a math quiz. Luxuriate in the rich characters and philosophy tools!

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff. You can watch video for this episode and hear the post-game talking gratis just by visiting our Patreon page.

Ep. 337: Aristotle on Primary Being (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 03:57:38 +0000

Continuing for our third session on Aristotle's Metaphysics, now covering Book 7 (Zeta).

What exactly is the type of being that is the chief reason why we call anything being? Aristotle says its the substantial form present in an individual animal or plant.

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.

PEL Presents PMP#169: Doctor Who? (When?)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Do you Who? Did you Who back in the day, or just from the point of the 2005 revival? Did you Who through Tennant, Smith, Capaldi... Were you still on board for Whittaker, and now as Disney+ and revival creator Russell T. Davies attempt to make this more readily accessible in all ways with the transition to Ncuti Gatwa?

Mark, Al, and Lawrence are joined by our special guest, improv comedian Chris Rathjen to talk about the appeal and evolution of this very long-running British sci-fi show.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Visit GoodChop.com/pretty120 and use code pretty120 to get $120 off four boxes of organic, sustainable meat and/or seafood.

Ep. 336: Aristotle on Being and Non-Contradiction (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 03:33:55 +0000

Continuing on Book 4 (Gamma) of the Metaphysics. We discuss further the relations between the logical and metaphysical versions of the principle of non-contradiction and how Aristotle characterizes relativists like Protagoras who he claims violate non-contradiction.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

PEL Presents NEM#212: Graham Parker's Hard Graft

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Graham has released 25+ studio albums of soul-infused British singer-songwriter goodness since 1976, first with the Rumour, but often in the second half of his career playing live entirely solo.

We discuss "Lost Track of Time" by Graham Parker and the Goldtops from Last Chance to Do the Twist (2023), "Going There" by Graham Parker & The Rumour from Mystery Glue (2015), "She Wants So Many Things" from Struck By Lightning (1991), and "Between You and Me" by Graham Parker & The Rumour from Howlin' Wind (1976). Intro: "Local Girls" from Squeezing Out Sparks (1980). Hear more at GrahamParker.net

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 336: Aristotle on Being and Non-Contradiction (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:23:51 +0000

On Aristotle's Metaphysics, book 4 (aka Gamma) (ca. 340 BCE). What does studying "being" entail? It involves claiming that all beings are distinct individuals, as opposed to, for instance, an undifferentiated flux. They're thus subject to the law of non-contradiction, which Aristotle defends against objectors.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Get 50% off delicious, ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pel50 (code pel50).

PEL Presents PMP#168: Writing Women's Fiction w/ Kathryn Leigh Scott

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

To celebrate the publication of the latest novel by one of our hosts, Sarahlyn Bruck, we bring back acclaimed actor/author Kathryn Leigh Scott to join Mark and Al. We discuss women's fiction as a marketing category, its relation to genres like romance and literary fiction, and the writing process.

The books that we read for this are Sarahlyn's Light of the Fire and Kathryn's September Girl (2019).

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Visit GoodChop.com/pretty120 and use code pretty120 to get $120 off four boxes of organic, sustainable meat and/or seafood.

Ep. 335: Aristotle on Fundamental Explanations (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:59:33 +0000

Continuing on Aristotle's Metaphysics, book 1. We get seriously into Aristotle's four types of causation and how previous philosophers in leaving out one or most of these made a mistake. This includes a critique of Platonic forms, which as eternal, unchanging patterns can't actually explain why change occurs in the world.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive Closereads/part 3 drilling into the argument against Platonic forms in Aristotle's Metaphysics. Listen to a preview.

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PvI #71: The Cranio-Fascism Exchange

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

If people would be uniquely healed by your blood, how much would you charge for it? Would it make a difference if they were wealthy vampires? Bill entices Mark to join a cult.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

PEL Presents NEM#211: Louis Michot (Lost Bayou Ramblers) Evolves Cajun Music

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Coming from a family who played traditional cajun music in Louisiana, violinist Louis and his accordion-playing brother Andre have released none albums (plus some live releases and EPs since 2001), winning two Grammy awards, plus Louis has had a couple of releases under the name Michot's Melody Makers, and he just released his first solo album.

We discuss the title track (and listen at the end to "Ti Coeur Bleu" from Rêve du Troubadour, that 2023 solo album, plus "Marée Noire" from Mammoth Waltz (2012) and "Mexico One Step" from Bayou Perdu (2005). Intro: "Grand Marais" by Michot’s Melody Makers from Blood Moon (2018). Learn more at louismichot.com and lostbayouramblers.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 335: Aristotle on Fundamental Explanations (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:12:36 +0000

On Aristotle's Metaphysics, book 1 (aka Alpha) (ca. 340 BCE). What constitutes a basic explanation of the universe?

We talk about how mere practical knowledge of how things in fact work is not enough; there's greater wisdom in knowing the theoretical underpinnings. Various philosophers before Aristotle had given different kinds of explanations of what the universe is at bottom, but for a complete explanation, Aristotle says we'll need to include all four types of causation: material, formal, efficient, and final.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Try another scholarly and fun podcast: Harry Potter and the Sacred Text.

PEL Presents PMP#167: "May December" and Other Docudramas

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

When we've already heard about someone's personal scandal in the news, do we need to also see it dramatized with A-list actors? We discuss Todd Haynes' 2023 film fictionalizing the long-aftermath of the Mary Kay Letourneau story.

We also touch on Joe vs. Carole, Inventing Anna, Dirty John, The Act, The Shrink Next Door, and The Thing About Pam, etc.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

REISSUE-Ep. 29: Kierkegaard on the Self

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:53:01 +0000

What is the self? For K. we are a tension between opposites: necessity and possibility, the finite and the infinite, soul and body. He thinks we're all in despair, whether we know it or not, because we wrongly think we're something we're not, or we reject what we are, or we just don't pay attention to this dynamic at all: we just go along with the crowd. So we need to keep self-examining and (he thinks) ultimately embrace our subservience to God. Given all this, is there anything one can get out of the text if you don't subscribe to K's Christianity?

We're releasing this re-issue as a coda to our recent series on K.

Get the rest of our paywalled, vintage episodes at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support, along with a steady stream of new bonus content.

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PvI#70: Paramilitary Existentialism w/ Jonny Thomson

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Jonny taught philosophy at Oxford, wrote the international bestseller Mini Philosophy, and now writes for Big Think.

We talk Kierkegaard and act out some scenes about scouting and military recruitment. Do we have to live within labels? Does one have to leap to a label, without justification?/p>

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. You'll see there the link to the video version of this. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, a video version of the podcast, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: If you enjoy our podcast, check out Historical Blindness.

PREMIUM-PEL Long Winter's Nightcap (Jan-Feb 2024)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 18:12:59 +0000

We anticipate our upcoming series on Aristotle's Metaphysics by talking through some preliminary issues about the text including what translations we're reading. Is this book really "timeless," or is it like old, outdated science? Also, what kind of person becomes an ancient philosophy student?

Plus (in the full discussion), we talk more about Mounk, Presidential disqualification, and more.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents NEM#210: Matt Piucci (Rain Parade) Retires BACK to Music

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

After Matt's "paisley underground" band Rain Parade recorded two albums and an EP from '83-'85, he was a member of Crazy Horse (taking the Neil Young guitar role in Neil's absence), and released a few albums intermittently as he worked in law enforcement. Now that he has retired, he's back devoting all his time to music, and Rain Parade has been touring and released its first album of the millennium.

We discuss the title track from this 2023 release, Last Rays of the Dying Sun, then the title track by the Hellenes' I Love You All the Animals (2018), and "Blue" from Rain Parade's Glass Palace EP (1984). Finally, we listen to "Reason for Living" from the self-titled album by Boatclub (2008). Intro: "What She's Done to Your Mind" (a 1982 single). More at rainparade.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Get the ultimate gift: A custom-written song from Songfinch. Use songfinch.com/NEM to get free Spotify streaming for your song. Listen to the song Mark commissioned.

Ep. 334: Gabriel Marcel's Christian Existentialism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 03:38:25 +0000

Continuing on "On the Ontological Mystery" (1933), we talk more about problems vs. mysteries: The latter implicate OURSELVES; we are not merely witnesses, but our involvement complicates things. Also, what makes Marcel an existentialist?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive Nightcap anticipating our upcoming series on Aristotle's Metaphysics. Listen to a preview.

PEL Presents PMP#166: Miyazaki's Anime Dreamscapes

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In light of the new, acclaimed film, The Boy and the Heron, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al reflect on the Studio Ghibli films that Hayao Miyazaki has directed since the '80s.

Does the visionary design make up for the languorous pacing? We talk about the anime style, subtitles vs. dubbed, using this style for children's vs. adult entertainment, the relation of these films to fairy tales, and more.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out the Historical Blindness podcast.

Ep. 334: Gabriel Marcel's Christian Existentialism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:14:21 +0000

Discussing "On the Ontological Mystery" (1933) about our need for meaning. Marcel asserts that our need for "mystery" is much more primal than the scientific, technical point of view that breaks down problems into component parts for easy analysis. In fact, this more modern-seeming way of looking at the world presupposes and relies on the more originary position.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get 50% off ready-to-eat meal delivery at FactorMeals.com/pel50 (code pel50). Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/PEL.

PEL Presents SUBTEXT: Identity and Infamy in “Citizen Kane” (1941) (Part 2)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000

It’s a film bursting with objects—the treasure troves of Xanadu, a snowglobe, jigsaw puzzles, a winner’s cup, the famous sled. Even the conceptual elements of the film’s plot are expressed tangibly. Kane’s mind-boggling wealth isn’t an abstraction, but a list of concrete holdings—gold mines, oil wells, real estate. And the news Kane controls and manipulates, when yoked to another noun, is something one can hold in one’s hands: a newspaper. Kane, too, is described as the incarnation of several abstractions. As his obituary tells us, he himself was “news,” as well as the embodiment of whole years in a swath straddling the 19th and 20th centuries. One might call him the American idea personified. But what these terms really mean and how they’re made manifest in Kane is hard to pin down. At times, he seems to be no more than a vast, empty planet around which objects swirl. What’s at his core, then? What did his life mean? One reporter searching for the secret of Kane bets that just one fact—the identity of “Rosebud”—would explain his whole life. Another suggests that it’s in the sum total of his possessions. Yet another thinks, curiously, that even Kane’s actions won’t tell us who he really was. So what, then, determines his or any identity? What’s the measure of a person? The objects they possess? The abstract ideals they claim to stand for? Their actions? Or something still deeper? Wes & Erin discuss possibly the greatest film ever made: from 1941, Orson Welles’s “Citizen Kane.”

PEL Presents PvI#69: Alternative Religious Practices w/ Katie Caussin

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Katie is the co-artistic director of Chicago's IO theater and used to do Comedy Sports improv with Bill. She also took a lot of classes in philosophy and religion, so we talk some about cults, Kierkegaard, tolerance, and more. In our scenes, a family contemplates celebrating Christmas differently this year, and people debate the appropriate gift for a newborn king.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. You'll see there the link to the video version of this. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsors: Get a meal for $1.49 plus $1 steaks at EveryPlate.com/podcast, code 49improv. Get a weekly dose of Internet comedy at CanYouDontPodcast.com.

NEM#209: Bruce Hornsby Is a Lifelong Student

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 03:46:34 +0000

Bruce is best known for his first album The Way It Is (1986), but has come light years since then through 18+ albums, experimenting with different styles, playing over 100 shows with the Grateful Dead, and scoring numerous projects for Spike Lee. He's won three Grammys and recorded with music royalty including Elton John, Ornette Coleman, Branford Marsalis, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, etc.

We discuss "Sidelines" (feat. Ezra Koenig from Vampire Weekend) from 'Flicted (2022), "My Resolve" (feat. James Mercer of The Shins) from Non-Secure Connection (2020), and a new live version of "Shadow Hand" from the 25th Anniversary Edition of Spirit Trail. End song: "Cast-Off" (feat. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver) from Absolute Zero (2019). Intro: "The Way It Is" (Live from Köln, 2019). More at brucehornsby.com

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Visit GreenChef.com/60Nakedly (use code 60Nakedly) to get 60% off your first box from America's #1 Meal Kit for eating clean (plus 20% off for the next two months) Get the ultimate gift: A custom-written song from Songfinch. Use songfinch.com/NEM to get free Spotify streaming for your song. Listen to the song Mark commissioned.

Ep. 333: Kierkegaard's "Fear and Trembling" on Faith (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:01:28 +0000

Continuing on Kierkegaard's perhaps most famous book, this time focusing largely on "Problem One: Is There a Teleological Suspension of the Ethical?"

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive episode of Closereads that connects Kierkegaard to the Sermon on the Mount. Listen to a preview.

Sponsors: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/PEL. Check out the Conflicted history podcast.

Learn about Mark's Spring Core Texts in Philosophy Class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Ep. 333: Kierkegaard's "Fear and Trembling" on Faith (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:04:48 +0000

To wrap up our coverage of Kierkegaard, we consider his religious stage of development through this 1843 text analyzing the Biblical story of Abraham. Can we understand, much less admire, an attitude whereby you think God has commanded you to kill your son and you gladly go along with it? How does this sort of "greatness" relate to ethics?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/PEL. Check out AncientHistoryFanGirl.com.

PEL Presents PMP#165: Jewish Comedy w/ Daniel Lobell

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Your hosts Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al explore Jewish comedy with stand-up Daniel, whose film Reconquistador is about his ancestors being kicked out of Spain. What's the connection of Jewish humor to anti-semitism? What's the relation of a creator's identity to the creation? How does comedy relate to politics and philosophy?

We touch on Mel Brooks, Larry David, Adam Sandler, Woody Allen, Lenny Bruce, and feminist Jewish comedy.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Get a meal for $1.49 plus $1 steaks for life at EveryPlate.com/podcast, code 49pretty.

PREMIUM-PEL Winter Nightcap (Concluding 2023)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 01:29:04 +0000

Mark, Wes, Seth, and Dylan set ourselves as part of our ongoing Kierkegaard reading to re-listen to our 2010 episode 29 on Kierkegaard's The Sickness Unto Death. This leads us to our personal histories regarding faith and how the idea of faith intersects with our philosophy studies.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 332: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Ethical Self (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 05:10:33 +0000

Concluding our discussion of Either/Or, still this time considering "The Balance Between the Esthetic and the Ethical in the Development of the Personality" on how the ethical helps us to develop a self.

What is this ideal self that Kierkegaard wants us to aim for, but yet which is within us as individuals already? How can each of us merge with the universal ethically yet assert our individuality?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive, Kierkegaard-related Nightcap. Listen to a preview..

Sponsor: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

Learn about Mark's Spring Core Texts in Philosophy Class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents: NEM#208: Laura Osnes: From Broadway to Nashville

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 03:10:29 +0000

After winning a TV reality competition in 2007 to become Sandy in Grease on Broadway, Laura went on to star in shows like South Pacific, Bonnie & Clyde, Anything Goes, and Cinderella. In 2021 she left Broadway and is now a pop-country songwriter.

We discuss her 2023 singles "Getaway" and "Enough," and her performance of the Bonnie & Clyde song "How 'Bout a Dance," from Dream a Little Dream: Live at at the Café Carlyle (2012). End song: "Fell for You" (feat. Chuck Wicks). Intro: "Hopelessly Devoted" from the Grease Soundtrack (2007). More at lauraosnes.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Get the ultimate gift: A custom-written song from Songfinch. Use songfinch.com/NEM to get free Spotify streaming for your song. Listen to the song Mark commissioned.

Ep. 332: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Ethical Self (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 12:44:10 +0000

On the second half of "The Balance Between the Esthetic and the Ethical in the Development of the Personality" from Vol. 2 of Either/Or (1843). How do we "absolutely" form a coherent self by embracing ethical conventions like marriage, friendship, and having a job?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get two memberships for the price of one at MasterClass.com/PEL. Have your donation matched up to $100 to a top-performing charity at GiveWell.org (enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout). Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/PEL.

PEL Presents PMP#164: Muppets, esp. Their Xmas Carol

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 20:35:40 +0000

For our annual holiday episode, Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk all things Muppets, but in particular the 1992 film The Muppet Christmas Carol. What's the appeal of this puppet act? Is its humor post-funny ironic? Should it still exist and can it still have the magic with a new generation behind the felt?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PREMIUM-Ep. 331: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Ethical Life (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark and Wes talk in more details about the "stages of despair" Kierkegaard lays out in “The Balance Between the Esthetic and the Ethical in the Development of the Personality” from Vol. 2 of Either/Or.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Philosophy vs. Improv #67: Consent to Improv w/ Sukaina Hirji

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:45:00 +0000

Sukaina teaches philosophy at U. of Pennsylvania, combining work from ancient Greek, contemporary moral, and feminist philosophy. She lets Mark and Bill know about critiques by feminist philosophers of the idea of consent. We talk a bit about moral agency, teaching dynamics given these kids today, Aristotelian virtue, and testing personality types by turning them up to 11.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. You'll see there the link to the video version of this. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff, including a special holiday video (which is free to all viewers)

Ep. 331: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Ethical Life (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:30:38 +0000

Continuing on "The Balance Between the Esthetic and the Ethical in the Development of the Personality," with a critique of (Hegelian) philosophy and concrete advice for how to build yourself in an optimal way.

Sponsors: Learn about St. John's College Winter Classics, starting this January, at sjc.edu/PEL. Check out the Go Fact Yourself podcast at gofactyourpod.com.

PEL Presents NEM#207: Jason Narducy: Punk Matured

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 03:42:10 +0000

Jason plays bass for Bob Mould's band, is a touring member of Superchunk, and has been making the promo rounds as he tours as guitarist with actor Michael Shannon to play R.E.M.'s debut Murmur live for its 40th anniversary. He's a singer-songwriter who played as Verbow in the 90s, and more recently as Split Single.

We discuss two Split Single tunes: "Bitten by the Sound" from Amplificado (2021), "Monolith" from Fragmented World (2014), plus Verbow's "Fan Club" from Chronicles (1997). End song: "Blood Break Ground" from Callado (2022). Intro: "He’s a Panther" by Verböten (his first band, when he was but a tween, live in 1983). Learn more at splitsinglemusic.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Get the ultimate gift: A custom-written song from Songfinch. Use songfinch.com/NEM to get free Spotify streaming for your song.

Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale" (Part 5 of 6)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Part 5 of Wes & Erin's discussion of Shakespeare’s "The Winter’s Tale."

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, St. John's College. Learn more about undergraduate--and graduate--Great Books programs at St. John's in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Annapolis, Maryland at sjc.edu/subtext.

(SUB)TEXT: The Emptiness of Signification in Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale" (Part 4 of 6)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 03:30:54 +0000

Part 4 of Wes & Erin's discussion of Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale."

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, HelloFresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/subtextfree and use code subtextfree for free breakfast for life.

Ep. 331: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Ethical Life (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:02:55 +0000

On "The Balance Between the Esthetic and the Ethical in the Development of the Personality" from Vol. 2 of Soren Kierkegaard's Either/Or (1843).

What is choice? Kierkegaard's character Judge William criticizes the aesthete from our previous episode on the earlier part of this book: The aesthete doesn't make any authentic choices and so doesn't develop a coherent self.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Have your donation matched up to $100 to a top-performing charity at GiveWell.org (enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout). Get 60% off (plus 20% off your next two months) America's #1 meal kit for eating well at Greenchef.com/60pel (code 60pel). Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#163: Marvel Fatigue?

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, Al and special guest Vi Burlew talk about the new film The Marvels as well as more generally what's been coming out in film and TV from the Marvel folks in the latest "phase." Does Marvel have a consistent tone at this point)? What explains the box office poison of the new film?

Subscribe directly at prettymuchpop.com or search Pretty Much Pop on your desired podcast app to hear our "aftertalk" to this episode (where we catch up on what we're consuming and engage in other off-topic chatter). You'll get that sort of treatment for every episode by supporting us via patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PREMIUM-Ep. 331: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Aesthetic Life (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth read through more of Kierkegaard's Diapsalmata, translated as "Refrains," which are the aphorisms that begin the book and demonstrate the aesthetic point of view.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 330: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Aesthetic Life (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 13:19:53 +0000

Continuing on "Diapsalmata" and "Rotation of Crops" from the "Either" portion of Kierkegaard's pseudonymous book.

We talk through more of K's aphorisms, his narrator's solution to boredom, and we take the critique personally: Is this Romantic view described one that we held as younger people (or now)?

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College Winter Classics, starting this January, at sjc.edu/PEL.

PEL Presents PvI#66: Legacy Mops w/ Kevin Allison

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Kevin is the creator and host of the storytelling podcast RISK! and is the alphabetically foremost member of the MTV-televised, newly reformed, celebrity-infested sketch comedy troupe The State. But can he improvise? Mark and Bill surprise Kevin into a scene about a suspicious hotel.

How does one engineer one's legacy? Will history inevitably either reduce your greatest contributions to mere noise or reinterpret them in light of your final, embarrassing moments? Perhaps the legendary comedy team of Ricky and Lester can serve as a scenic example; let's let them say a little about who they are and how their career reached its current nadir.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. You'll see there the link to the video version of this. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

PEL Presents NEM#206: Wreckless Eric: "Without Sound, You've Got Nothing"

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Eric Goulden has recorded 29 albums since 1978, typically as Wreckless Eric but also with his wife Amy Rigby or under band names like Captains of Industry and The Len Bright Combo.

We discuss "Standing Sunday Morning" from Leisureland (2023), "Another Drive-In Saturday" by Wreckless Eric & Amy Rigby from their self-titled debut (2008), and "Depression" by Le Beat Group Electrique from their self-titled album (1989). Outro: "Father to the Man" from Transience (2019). Intro: "Whole Wide World" (single version, 1977).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 330: Kierkegaard's "Either/Or": The Aesthetic Life (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000

On the aphorisms ("Diapsalmata") that begin Soren Kierkegaard's Either/Or (1843), plus the essay also in the first volume, "Rotation of Crops." What is it to live your life as if it were a work of art? K thinks such a life is unserious and unsatisfying.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get two memberships for the price of one at MasterClass.com/PEL. Learn about St. John's College Winter Classics, starting this January, at sjc.edu/PEL. Have your donation matched up to $100 to a top-performing charity at GiveWell.org (enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout).

PEL Presents (SUB)TEXT: The Emptiness of Signification in Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale" (Part 1 of 6)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 20:00:00 +0000

When King Leontes accuses his pregnant wife of adultery, the nobleman Antigonus assumes that Leontes has been “abused and by some putter-on”—in other words, some Iago-like villain has been putting malevolent ideas into his head. In fact, Leontes is the father of his own misconceptions, just as he is the father of his wife’s children. But unlike his children, his ideas might be said to have no mother; they lack corroboration, which is to say, collaboration with a source outside himself. How, then, do we account for the seemingly spontaneous generation of his thoughts? How can false apprehensions arise out of nothing? And what price must one pay for bearing these misconceptions, these “nothings,” into the world? In this episode, the first part of a six part discussion, Wes & Erin discuss one of Shakespeare’s last plays, "The Winter’s Tale."

Ep. 329: Kierkegaard on Irony (Part Three/Closereads Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 25 Nov 2023 13:49:56 +0000

Mark and Wes Closeread the conclusion to Soren Kierkegaard's On the Concept of Irony (1841), "Irony as a Controlled Element, the Truth of Irony." The discussion starts with the role of irony in good art, and then moves on to discuss the proper role of irony as an existential strategy in a well-grounded, thoughtful life.

To get all Part Three PEL episodes, plus paywalled vintage episodes, Nightcaps, and all PEL episodes ad-free, become a PEL supporter at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Signing up to support Closereads: Philosophy with Mark and Wes at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy will get you access to 20+ recordings like this, including (soon) the direct sequel to this one.

PEL Presents PMP#162: Poe Flavoring Upon the House of Usher

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

We discuss the loose mishmash adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe stories that makes up Mike Flanagan's Netflix show, The Fall of the House of Usher. Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the various creative choices, moral responsibility in the show, the relation between gothic and camp, Poe's continued standing as horror icon, and more.

Subscribe directly at prettymuchpop.com or search Pretty Much Pop on your desired podcast app to hear our "aftertalk" to this episode (where we catch up on what we're consuming and engage in other off-topic chatter) and avoid any ads. You'll get that sort of treatment for every episode by supporting us via patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 329: Kierkegaard on Irony (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:54:38 +0000

Continuing with On the Concept of Irony, defined as "infinite absolute negativity." K criticizes his Romantic peers of taking irony too far. So what is healthy, well-grounded irony?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a third part to this episode (coming soon).

Sponsors: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel. Have your donation matched up to $100 to a top-performing charity at GiveWell.org (enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout).

PEL Presents: Philosophy vs. Improv #65: Pop Spice

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Recorded on 9/11 (a date not known primarily for its improv activities), only now making its way to you, this discussion between Mark and Bill talk child deification, pop philosophy vs. pop improv, foreign accents, and guns in schools in the hands of improvisers.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Ep. 329: Kierkegaard on Irony (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:03:20 +0000

Discussing On the Concept of Irony (1841).

Kierkegaard builds up to telling us what irony is by showing how Socrates invented irony, as characterized by his wholly negative project of showing others that their beliefs inherited from society are wrong.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get $250 off the #1 meal kit for eating well at GreenChef.com/pel250 (code pel250). Start selling online with a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/pel. Have your donation matched up to $100 to a top-performing charity at GiveWell.org (enter "The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast" at checkout).

PEL Presents NEM#205: Tom Heyman: Unreliable Narrator

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Tom is best known as a steel guitar player who has guested with artists like Alejandro Escovedo, John Doe, and Sonny Smith. He started in the late '80s with the Philadelphia energetic alt-country band Go to Blazes. After five albums with them, he moved to San Francisco in 1997 and has since released six solo albums of Dylan-esque, lyrically driven folk-rock.

We discuss "Desperate" from 24th Street Blues (2023), "Chickenhawks and Jesus Freaks" from That Cool Blue Feeling (2013), "Bloody Sam" by Go To Blazes from Any Time... Anywhere (1994), and listen to "Etch A Sketch" from Show Business, Baby (2017). Intro: A Waylon Jennings cover, "Brand New Goodbye Song" (2008).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Visit FactorMeals.com/nem50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit. Try the Calm History podcast at CalmHistory.com.

PREMIUM-Ep. 328: Yascha Mounk Against Identity Politics (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, Dylan, and now Seth too discuss further Mounk's project in The Identity Trap and what philosophically we can glean from it.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 328: Guest Yascha Mounk Against Identity Politics (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:03:56 +0000

Continuing on The Identity Trap (2023). Which works better to achieve social progress; classical liberalism, or strategies involving emphasis of identity group membership? Do we even have to pick a side, or can we pragmatically choose strategies from whichever philosophy most effectively addresses the situation in question?

We discuss cultural appropriation, free speech, standpoint epistemology, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and bonus content including a supporter-exclusive, guest-free part three to this discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel. Check out the Clearer Thinking Podcast with Spencer Greenberg.

PEL Presents PvI#64: TEAM PLAY GENERALS with Linda Orr and Andrew Lavin

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:03:16 +0000

Returning freedom fighters Andrew and Linda and join Bill and Mark to talk about philosophical liberalism: Its rationales and varieties. Plus, preschool orientation, and Greek gods creating a new world.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff. This episode includes the post-game to give you a sample.

Sponsor: Visit FactorMeals.com/improv50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit.

PEL Presents (SUB)TEXT: Terminal Wooings in "The Odyssey" (Part 3 of 3)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Wes & Erin discuss the final 12 books of "The Odyssey," translated by Emily Wilson.

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode St. John’s College, and Füm. Learn more about undergraduate–and graduate–Great Books programs at St. John’s in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Annapolis, Maryland at sjc.edu/subtext. Head to TryFum.com and use code SUBTEXT to save 10 percent off when you get the Journey pack today.

For bonus content, become a paid subscriber at Patreon or directly on the Apple Podcasts app. Patreon subscribers also get early access to ad-free regular episodes.

This podcast is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Visit AirwaveMedia.com to listen and subscribe to other Airwave shows like Good Job, Brain and Big Picture Science.

Email advertising@airwavemedia.com to enquire about advertising on the podcast.

Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Android | RSS

Ep. 328: Guest Yascha Mounk Against Identity Politics (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:12:08 +0000

On The Identity Trap (2023), an intellectual history of wokeness (aka "the identity synthesis") and defense of philosophical liberalism against this set of ideas. Are our differences more important than that which unites us?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Pretty Much Pop #161: Revisiting "The Exorcist"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the original 1973 film (and the 1971 novel), the new Exorcist: Believer, with some talk of the early sequels. What makes the original film so scary? Its adjacency to real-life parental fears? Does the new film really dialogue intelligently with that original? Is demonic possession an inherently problematic plot device?

Subscribe directly at prettymuchpop.com or search Pretty Much Pop on your desired podcast app to hear our "aftertalk" to this episode (where we catch up on what we're consuming and engage in other off-topic chatter) and avoid any ads. You'll get that sort of treatment for every episode by supporting us via patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PREMIUM-PEL Fall Nightcap 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 20:01:53 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth talk more about bullshit, Derrida and other difficult and arguably bullshitty philosophy, expressing truths through bodily movement, horror movies, and our coverage of author-guests and works that provide an introductory roadmap to some philosophical area.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 327: Harry Frankfurt on Bullsh*t and Authenticity (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 03:05:10 +0000

On Frankfurt's essay "The Importance of What We Care About" (1982), which distinguishes the question of what to value from ethical questions and explores the extent to which deciding what to care about is a free act.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive Nightcap discussion getting more into bullshit, hypocrisy, and more.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents NEM#204: Tim and Sue Lee Learn Their Craft, from Windbreakers to Bark

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Tim began with The Windbreakers in Mississippi in 1982 and has released around 30 albums including solo albums starting in the late '80s plus albums with his wife Susan Bauer Lee (first on bass, then on drums) as The Tim Lee 3 and now Bark.

We discuss Bark's "Love Minus Action" from Loud (2023), "Magnolia Plates" by Tim Lee 3 from 33 ⅓ (2015), "Like Sand" from Tim's Crawdad (1998), and the title track from The Windbreakers' Run (1987, with lyrics by Sherry Cothren). We conclude by listening to "Dead Guy Story" from Concrete Dog (2006). Intro: "All That Stuff" by The Windbreakers from Terminal (1985). Learn more at bark-loud.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Visit FactorMeals.com/nem50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit.

Ep. 327: Harry Frankfurt on Bullshit and Authenticity (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:36:06 +0000

Mark, Wes, Dylan, and Seth discuss the celebrated 1986 essay "On Bullshit."

Does bullshit necessarily involve lying? Frankfurt defines it as instead indifferent to truth, though still deceptive about what kind of speech act the audience is supposed to think that it is.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month e-commerce trial at shopify.com/pel. Get 15% off MasterClass at masterclass.com/PEL.

PEL Presents PMP#160: Mvto to "Reservation Dogs"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the groundbreaking Native-written/starring TV show about four teens trying to get away from their Oklahoma reservation, getting into its treatment of death, community, wokeness, and more.

Subscribe directly at prettymuchpop.com or search Pretty Much Pop on your desired podcast app to hear our "aftertalk" to this episode (where we catch up on what we're consuming and engage in other off-topic chatter) and avoid any ads. You'll get that sort of treatment for every episode by supporting us via patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

If you like our podcast, check out The Opus podcast from Consequence Media, about great albums.

PEL Presents PvI#63: Virtual Socrates w/ David Chalmers

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0000

The New York University Prof and author of many influential books including the new Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy joins Mark and Bill to simulate debates about AI, cybersex, actor vs. character, and keeping children safe from reality.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Visit FactorMeals.com/improv50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit.

Ep. 326: Michael Tomasello on the Evolution of Agency (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 06:31:58 +0000

Wes, Dylan, and guest Chris Heath continue to discuss The Evolution of Agency (2022) in light of our interview with the author.

We relate examples from the book of animals of various levels of complexity making deliberative decisions, exhibiting rationality, experiencing causality, or otherwise engaging in agentive behaviors.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents PvI#62: Cutting Every Edge w/ Jeremy Richards

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0000

The author of The Accomplished Creative, a sort of anti-self-help book based around Jeremy's improv experience and what he learned as a philosophy major, joins Mark and Bill to talk impostor syndrome and benign violations, get real meta about Die Hard scenarios, and have a cheese intervention.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more and get the link to the video for this episode at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Ep. 326: Guest Michael Tomasello on the Evolution of Agency (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:53:37 +0000

On The Evolution of Agency (2022), with the author, and guest panelist Chris Heath.

What is human agency? How would we determine whether an animal is a legitimate agent, as opposed to just acting automatically? Tomasello investigates this by thinking about what capabilities and behaviors constitute agency and the degree to which near-human animals have these.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Learn about St. John's College at sjc.edu/pel.

PEL Presents PMP#159: Watching "How To with John Wilson"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000

https://prettymuchpop.com/2023/10/04/pmp159-how-to-with-john-wilson/Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al all watched the three seasons of this groundbreaking, polarizing documentary show that serves as a visual diary and collection of essays by its creator. While episode titles sound like practical advice, the investigations invariably swerve into something weird or philosophical. But did we enjoy it?

Subscribe directly at prettymuchpop.com or search Pretty Much Pop on your desired podcast app to hear our "aftertalk" to this episode (where we catch up on what we're consuming and engage in other off-topic chatter) and avoid any ads. You'll get that sort of treatment for every episode by supporting us via patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Presents NEM#203: Andy White Tells the Truth

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Andy has released 20 albums since 1986, touring with just him and his acoustic guitar. We discuss "The Happiness Index" from AT (2023), his second collaboration with Tim Finn; the title track from The Guilty and the Innocent (2017); and "Speechless" from Out There (1992). End song: "Italian Girls on Mopeds" from Boy 40 (2003). Intro: "Vision of You" from Rave On (1986). More at andywhite.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page.

Sponsor: Visit FactorMeals.com/nem50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit.

Ep. 325: Paul Grice on Meaning and Conversation (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 13:54:56 +0000

Continuing on "Meaning" (1957), "Utterer’s Meaning and Intentions" (1969), and "Logic and Conversation" (1975) with guest Steve Gimbell.

We tie the articles together, talk more about the rules implicit in conversation, and try to relate Grice's project to other parts of philosophy.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

PEL Presents (SUB)TEXT: Foolish Adventures in "The Odyssey" (Part 2 of 3)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Wes & Erin continue their discussion of the Odyssey, translated by Emily Wilson. In this episode, part 2 of our 3-part series, they look closely at the heart of the poem, books 5-12, in which Odysseus arrives in Phaeacia and provides the tale-within-the-tale of his adventures after the Trojan War. They discuss the significance of Odysseus’s fantastical encounters and asking what they might reveal both about his character and about the nature of our own progress—through times of safety, complacency, excitement, danger, and loss—as we wend our way back home.

Sponsors: Head to factormeals.com/subtext50 and use code subtext50 to get 50 percent off. Learn more about undergraduate–and graduate–Great Books programs at St. John’s in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Annapolis, Maryland at sjc.edu/subtext. Head to TryFum.com and use code SUBTEXT to save 10 percent off when you get the Journey pack today.

PEL Presents PMP#158: "Oppenheimer" and Other Christopher Nolan Films

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the writer-director's work, touching on not only his recent tour-de-force, but back to Memento, Dunkirk, Tenet, Inception, The Prestige, Interstellar, Insomnia, and The Following.

Is Nolan overrated as a thinker and storyteller? Do his plots actually make sense? We talk heroes, noir, philosophy, twists, and his depiction of women.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Get 60% off (and free shipping) on America's #1 Meal Kit for Eating Well at GreenChef.com/60pmp (code 60pmp).

Ep. 325: Paul Grice on Meaning and Conversation (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:04:08 +0000

On "Meaning" (1957), "Utterer’s Meaning and Intentions" (1969), and "Logic and Conversation" (1975), featuring Mark, Seth, Dylan, and guest Steve Gimbell.

Grice tries to give a rigorous analysis of what it means for a speaker (as opposed to a sentence) to mean something in particular. Let the increasingly elaborate potential counter-examples commence!

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 episode coming out next week.

Sponsors: Get a $1/month shopify.com/pel. Check out Drilled, a true-crime podcast about climate change.

PEL Presents PvI#61: TEAM PLAY CIRCUS with Adal Rifai and Jenny Hansen

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

It's St. Lawrence University philosophy prof Jenny in the ring with UIC instructor/Podcaster with Hey Riddle Riddle and Hello From the Magic Tavern Adal, along with Mark and Bill, of course. And the Bullshot is flying! Who will be hit?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Visit FactorMeals.com/improv50 (code improv50) to get 50% off America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit.

PREMIUM-Ep. 324: Plato's "Cratylus" on Language (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark and Wes do a Closeread on the latter part of the dialogue, where Socrates argues to Cratylus that even if names (words) were devised to somehow depict the things they stand for, that wouldn't guarantee that they ACCURATELY describe the world. You can't look at the definitions of words to learn about the world; you have to actually investigate the world directly.

Closereads supporters (see patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy) can watch video for this episode and get all the Closereads content: 13 episodes so far, including new episodes on Epictetus' Discourses.

This Closeread and some others are also being made available to PEL supporters. If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, you can sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 324: Plato's "Cratylus" on Language (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 10:34:20 +0000

Continuing on Plato's mid-period dialogue about language. Is attaching a word to a thing, i.e. naming it, like other activities such as carpentry or sewing that can go wrong? Can we put the "form" of a thing into letters and syllabus of its name? We go through many examples where Socrates claims to have done just that.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

PEL Presents PMP#157: What Is a Pop Culture Podcast For? (Season Finale)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 15:00:00 +0000

What is media criticism, and is that what we're doing? For our Season 3 finale (i.e. the end of PMP's 4th year of operation), your now officially official hosts Mark Linsenmayer, Lawrence Ware, Sarahlyn Bruck, and Al Baker turn their gazes fully toward their collective navel to think about what purposes are served by discussions about pop culture and how we can do it better.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 60% off (and free shipping) on America's #1 Meal Kit for Eating Well at GreenChef.com/60pmp (code 60pmp). Check out the Articles of Interest podcast.

PEL Presents NEM#202: Richard Lloyd (Television): Guitar is Combustible

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Richard joined Television in 1973 and has released three albums with them, plus seven solo albums starting in 1980. He has also played with Matthew Sweet, John Doe, Rocket from the Tomb, and others, and has a 2019 memoir Everything Is Combustible.

We discuss "So Sad" from The Countdown (2018), "Glurp" from Radiant Monkey (2007), "Pleading" from Field of Fire (1985), and "Misty Eyes" from Alchemy (1980). We conclude by listening to "May This Be Love" from The Jamie Neverts Story, Richard's album of Jimi Hendrix covers. Intro: "Venus" by Television from Marquee Moon (1977). More at richardlloyd.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 324: Plato's "Cratylus" on Language (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 11:15:11 +0000

On Plato's mid-period dialogue from around 388 BCE. How do words relate to the things they represent? Socrates first argues that words represent things, and so doing etymology is a way of learning philosophical truths, then seemingly reverses himself.

Sponsors: Visit GreenChef.com/60pel (code 60pel) for 60% off and free shipping for the #1 Meal Kit for Eating Well. Maximize the power of your charitable giving at GiveWell.org (choose PODCAST and enter Partially Examined Life at checkout). Check out the U. of Portsmouth's Life Solved podcast.

PREMIUM-PEL End-of-Summer Nightcap 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 02:05:08 +0000

Mark, Seth, Dylan, and eventually Wes talk about traveling, Barbie, gender, evolutionary psychology, cognitive science, and more.

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents PvI#60: Elu-Sedations w/ Matt Teichman

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Philosopher Matt, host of the Elucidations podcast and frequent PEL guest, finally gets in on Philosophy vs. Improv in this, our Season Two Finale. And many is he a de dicto. Or is he a de re? Slowly learn the difference as we make things personal through scenes of shit-talking and crime reporting.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out The Good Life Method by Meghan Sullivan and Paul Blaschko.

Ep. 323: Acquiring Language: Tomasello vs. Chomsky (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:11:27 +0000

Continuing on Michael Tomasello's "Language Is Not an Instinct" (1995) and Constructing a Language: A Usage-Based Theory of Language Acquisition (2003), as contrasted with Chomsky universal grammar (the flag that Steven Pinker continues to carry). With guest Christopher Heath.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive Nightcap discussion about cognitive science, evolutionary psychology, and more.

Learn about the online Core Philosophy Texts course Mark is running this fall at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents (sub)Text: Home as Identity in "The Odyssey"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:30:00 +0000

He was famously a man of many ways, whether we interpret these as abilities or norms; designs or deceptions; reasons or identities. Yet despite such resources, he was also famously stuck, making a 10-year odyssey of his attempt to return home from a 10-year war. What keeps the man of master plans from homecoming and domestic bliss? In the first of a three part discussion of Homer’s classic, Wes & Erin try to figure out what Odysseus really wants, and whether the “lord of lies” can master the trick of entrusting his mind to others.

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode, Factor and The Inner Loop Radio. Head to factormeals.com/subtext50and use code subtext50 to get 50 percent off. Subscribe to Inner Loop at https://www.theinnerlooplit.org/radio.

The conversation continues on our after-show (post)script. Get (post)script episodes by becoming a paid subscriber at Patreon or directly on the Apple Podcasts app. Patreon subscribers also get early access to ad-free regular episodes.

This podcast is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Visit AirwaveMedia.com to listen and subscribe to other Airwave shows like Good Job, Brain and Big Picture Science.

Email advertising@airwavemedia.com to enquire about advertising on the podcast.

Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Android | RSS

Ep. 323: Acquiring Language: Tomasello vs. Chomsky (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:25:10 +0000

On Michael Tomasello's "Language Is Not an Instinct" (1995) and Constructing a Language: A Usage-Based Theory of Language Acquisition (2003). With guest Christopher Heath.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Give more effectively via GiveWell.org (and let them know we sent you!). Try e-commerce for one-dollar-per-month at shopify.com/pel.

It's not too late to sign up for Mark's fall Core Philosophy Texts class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PMP#156: Black Mirror's Tech Horrors

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:30:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about Charlie Brooker's British anthology TV series that began in 2011 and recently released its 6th season.

How has this show evolved from satirical science fiction to something more often just horror studies that study human nature? We talk about our favorite episodes and what does and doesn't work. Does the show have to be so dark to make its point? Does it always have a point, or is some of it just fun?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 50% off and free shipping at GreenChef.com/pmp50 (code pmp 50). Check out the Articles of Interest podcast.

PEL Presents NEM#201: Ivan Neville Gets Personal (but Still Funky)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Ivan is the keyboardist/singer/multi-instrumentalist son of Aaron Neville and has played with the Neville Brothers, The Rolling Stones The Spin Doctors, etc. He has released eight albums since 1988, half of these under the band name Dumpstaphunk.

We discuss "Pass It Around" and listen to "Hey All Together" from Touch My Soul (2023), "They Don’t Care" by Dumpstaphunk from Dirty Word (2013), "What You Want from Me" from Saturday Morning Music (aka Scrape) (2002), and "Stay What You Are" (feat. Aaron Neville) from Thanks (1995). Intro: "Not Just Another Girl" from If My Ancestors Could See Me Now (1988). More at ivannevillemusic.com and dumpstaphunk.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

If you like our podcast, check out another show: Articles of Interest.

PEL Closereads: Emerson's Oversoul (New Podcast Premiere)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 14:05:08 +0000

Are we underlyingly all really a single, unified organism? Or do we just have a lot in common? PEL's most verbose hosts Mark Linsenmayer and Wes Alwan begin unraveling this puzzling claim by reading Ralph Waldo Emerson's 1841 essay "The Over-Soul" and explaining it line-by-line. Watch this episode on video at YouTube. We encourage you to read along in the essay with us.

This is the first of four parts. To hear the others as they are released this week, plus weekly episodes going forward and three episodes already posted, please support this new effort at patreon.com/closereadsphilosophy (or support PEL and Closereads together via support at the $10 level at patreon.com/partiallyexaminedlife.

Sponsor: Check out Drilled, a true-crime podcast about climate change.

Enrollment is now open for Mark's Core Philosophy Texts class at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Support PEL to get this discussion ad-free, plus tons of bonus content.

PEL Presents PvI#59: Yes, and Technological Dystopia w/ Anthony LeBlanc

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000

How does new technology affect ethics? Anthony (who is on strike, but that doesn't apply to improv) is an improviser with a computer science degree who now coaches kid TV actors. We talk personal identity, transhumanism, genetic engineering, AI, organizational ethics, Black Mirror, Beastars, and transporter virginity.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

If you like our podcast, check out another show: Articles of Interest.

PEL Presents PMP#155: Existentialist Barbie

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the most discussable movie of the summer made by the unlikely pairing of feminist indie director Greta Gerwig and Barbie's corporate overlords at Mattel. Does the film convey at least a legitimate teen version of feminist existentialism? It is actually enjoyable? What sort of irony is this, and can any film be both a blockbuster children's film yet also be a meditation on serious social and philosophical issues?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

Ep. 322: Schelling on Art vs. Nature (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:14:02 +0000

Mark and Wes conclude with some close reading of Part 6 of System of Transcendental Idealism (1800), section 3: "Relation of Art to Philosophy." Schelling thinks that art enables us to do intuitively what philosophy tries to do with concepts.

We're providing this typically supporter-exclusive content for all of you in anticipation of the new Closereads: Philosophy with Mark and Wes project that we'll be unveiling next week.

Sponsors: Get 50% off the #1 Meal Kit for Eating Clean (plus free shipping) at greenchef.com/pel50 (promocode pel50). Give more effectively via GiveWell.org (and let them know we sent you!). Check out the Articles of Interest podcast.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

There are still spots available in Mark's Core Philosophy Texts class this fall. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents NEM#200: Mikaela Davis: Singer-Songwriter-Harpist

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mikaela has a degree in harp performance and has been recording since 2011. We discuss "Cinderella" (and listen at the end to "Leave It Alone") from her second label-released album, And Southern Star (2023), "Left Hand Path" (2002, released on the compilation album Spelljams), and "In My Groove" from Delivery (2018). Intro: "When You're Away" (recorded 2015). Hear more at mikaeladavis.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

PEL Presents PvI#57: Happier Cancer w/ Monica McCarthy

Mark Linsenmayer — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Monica is an actor and writer who ran a live-on-stage philosophy podcast called The Happier Hour, and so naturally we talk about happiness, or flourishing (eudaimonia).

You can watch this episode in its unedited video form.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Take a class this fall from him at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/improv16 (code improv16). Visit Twit.tv/apple for three great podcasts about all things Apple.

Ep. 322: Schelling on Art vs. Nature (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:06:28 +0000

Continuing on "On the Relation Between the Plastic Arts and Nature" (1807) and Part 6 of System of Transcendental Idealism (1800).

We talk sculpture vs. painting and why art is the direct, intuitive way to achieve the insight that philosophy can only approximate using concepts.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Learn about the online Core Philosophy Texts course Mark is running this fall at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

(sub)Text: Competing Affections in "The Lion in Winter" (Peter O'Toole, Katherine Heburn)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 04:30:00 +0000

Before Henry VIII changed history for lack of a son, Henry II had too many. His eldest, Richard, a fierce soldier who controls the wealthy Aquitaine, is the favorite of his mother, Eleanor. The youngest, John, is immature and dull, but his father’s favorite. And the middle son, scheming Geoffrey, is, quite dangerously, no one’s favorite. In the end, there are no winners; competing affections and power schemes serve only to cancel each other out. Is it true then, as this story suggests, that being a favorite amounts to nothing more than a target on one’s back, as its benefits are counteracted by the destructive envy of the disfavored? What drives our own propensities for favoritism? And does occupying any position in the pecking order entail, in Eleanor’s words, learning to live with disappointment? Wes & Erin discuss the 1968 film "The Lion in Winter," starring Peter O’Toole and Katharine Hepburn.

Thanks to our sponsors for this episode, Factor and The Inner Loop Radio. Head to factormeals.com/subtext50 and use code subtext50 to get 50 percent off.

Subscribe to Inner Loop at https://www.theinnerlooplit.org/radio

Ep. 322: Schelling on Art vs. Nature (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 11:09:20 +0000

Discussing "On the Relation Between the Plastic Arts and Nature" (1807) and Part 6 of System of Transcendental Idealism (1800).

Is the goal of art to imitate nature? Only if that means showing the divine, ideal, dynamic aspect of the subject matter (and the artist)!

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Give more effectively via GiveWell.org (and let them know we sent you!). Get 15% off a newly cheaper annual membership at MasterClass.com/pel.

Learn about the online Core Philosophy Texts course Mark is running this fall at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents NEM#199: Alan Jenkins' Cornucopia of Experiments

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Alan has released 50+ albums, starting in the late '70s with The Deep Freeze Mice, then with several collaborative bands, experimental surf in the '00s with The Thurston Lava Tube, and now typically records as Alan Jenkins and the Kettering Vampires.

We discuss "The Multibear" from Be My Enemy £1 (2023), "Hitler’s Knees" by The Deep Freeze Mice from Saw a Ranch House Burning Last Night (1983), "The Morozovo Meteorite” by The Melamine Division Plates from Novosibirsk (2023), and "The Eagle Hates Your Poetry" by Alan Jenkins & The Creams from ie (1994). End song: "Nobody’s Getting My Hair" by The Chrysanthemums from Decoy for a Dognapper! (2022). Intro: "A Red Light for the Greens" by The Deep Freeze Mice from The Gates of Lunch (1982). For more, see cordeliarecords.co.uk.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 50% off (and free shipping) for America's #1 Meal Kit at HelloFresh.com/nem50 (code nem50). Check out KEWL.FM for a great mix of music.

PEL Presents PMP#153: Kids' Films, Adult Messages

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, and returning parents/panelists Michelle Parrinello-Cason and Chris Sunami take on animated blockbuster films by Pixar, et al. Why do some adults prefer these? What's the ideology of this kind of media?

We touch on Puss in Boots, Turning Red, Soul, Trolls, Enola Holmes, and many other things that we watched with our kids and/or as kids. Note that this discussion was recorded in late April, so no Little Mermaid for you!

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50). Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

Pretty Much Pop #154: Indiana Jones and the Various MacGuffins

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk about the blockbuster archaeological adventure films created in 1981 by George Lucas and Stephen Spielberg that we grew up with and which have now been revived and apparently concluded twice, currently via James Mangold's Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 50% off and free shipping at GreenChef.com/pmp50 (code pmp 50). Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap 7-9-23

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth talk about how we might cover philosophy of technology, and other areas like medical ethics, business ethics, environmental ethics, etc. Do we remember things that we recorded a few years back? What summer films are we looking forward to? Finally, can we cover David Foster Wallace?

If you're not hearing the full version of this discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 321: August Schlegel on Beauty (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:21:48 +0000

We continue on Theory of Art, getting more into sections of the text about the relationship between beauty and purposiveness, genius, unconscious vs. conscious creation, style vs. manner, and art imitating nature.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive Nightcap discussion largely about philosophy of technology.

Learn about the online Core Philosophy Texts course Mark is running this fall at partiallyexaminedlife.com/class.

PEL Presents PvI #56: Interpreting the Monkey Man w/ Chris George

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Chris has an act called "I Am the Show" where he improvises to a film that he hasn't seen that's playing silently, making up all the dialogue and sound effects.

Mark and Bill talk to Chris about being a spectator or critic of art: To understand a work, is it good or necessary to try to divine the artist's intentions, or is meaning in art something that happens after a work becomes an objective thing, such that the artist's intentions are not really relevant, and in fact the author might not have any better idea than you do of its meaning?

This spurs us for some reason to enact some scenes initiated by pantomime, i.e. silence. Darts, anyone? You can watch the unedited video of this episode for free.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/improv16 (code improv16). Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

Ep. 321: August Schlegel on Beauty (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:43:55 +0000

Covering the elder Schlegel brother's Theory of Art (ca. 1800). How does our experience of Beauty relate to the infinite? Schlegel provides a Romantic response to Kant on knowing the divine, inner essences of things through art, how genius works, and the relationship between art and nature.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get 15% off a newly cheaper annual membership at MasterClass.com/pel. Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PEL Presents NEM#198: Chris Stamey Keeps on Developing

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Chris started in the mid 70s in Sneakers, then backed Alex Chilton, started a record label, and then founded the dB's, which he left after two albums in 1983. He then became a producer and has released nine solo albums plus avant garde guitar collaborations with Kirk Ross and four reunion albums with Peter Holsapple and/or the dB's.

We discuss "I Will Try" from The Great Escape (2023), the title track from Lovesick Blues (2013), "Glorious Delusion" from Fireworks (1988, released in 1991), and "I Don't Think of You" by Chris Stamey & The Fellow Travelers feat. Ramune Martin from A Brand-New Shade of Blue (2020). Intro: "The Summer Sun" (1977 single). More at chrisstamey.com

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 50% off (and free shipping) for America's #1 Meal Kit at HelloFresh.com/nem50 (code nem50). Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

PEL Presents PvI#55: Oversouled Behavior w/ Genevieve Joy

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Genevieve is a comedian, podcaster, and she was a philosophy major who's studying for her doctorate in Divinity.

We talk about the idea that "we are all one" (and thus we are all God, if you want to call the sum of all things by that name) that's in various traditions. Ralph Waldo Emerson called this the "oversoul."

We spend the rest of the discussion under the bleachers not making out, getting bored at the Grand Canyon, being nervous before the big show, and considering everyone's food allergies.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of most recent episodes (not this one!), and other bonus stuff.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/improv16 (code improv16). Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PREMIUM-Ep. 320: Friedrich Schlegel on Romanticism (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 20:27:27 +0000

Mark and Wes conclude our discussion of the younger Schlegel brother by going through more of his critical fragments, largely published in 1797 in the journal Lyceum Tier Schonen Kunste.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 320: Friedrich Schlegel on Romanticism (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:20:05 +0000

We continue on Schlegel's "Dialogue on Poesy" (1799) and "Concerning the Essence of Critique" (1804).

How can Romantic art always aim at some common source of our humanity yet also require originality? How can having some sort of common mythology help artists be original in this way, and how can we embrace mythology as modern people?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

Sponsors: Get 15% off a newly cheaper annual membership at MasterClass.com/pel. Check out the Articles of Interest podcast.

PEL Presents PMP#152: BELIEVE in Ted Lasso

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al disagree about the Jason Sudeikis-headed Apple TV+ pandemic hit that's just wrapped up with its third season. Was it actually as good as everyone thought when its first season hit, or was its vibe just something we needed at the time? Should it have stayed slim and comic instead of becoming the stretched out, soapy dramedy that it ended up as?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

Ep. 320: Friedrich Schlegel on Romanticism (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:00:08 +0000

On selected fragments from 1797-1801, "Dialogue on Poesy" (1799), and "Concerning the Essence of Critique" (1804).

What makes art "Romantic"? Schlegel sees good art as uniquely, authentically reaching out to a divine source that underlies and connects each of us.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

PEL Presents NEM#197: Bonjo Iyabinghi Noah's African Head Charge

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Bonjo started in the '70s as a session hand percussionist, played for a few years with Creation Rebel, and became a band leader in 1980, first recording a bit as Noah House of Dread, then creating African Head Charge, which has had more than 20 releases. More at africanheadcharge.bandcamp.com.

We discuss "Microdosing" and listen to "A Bad Attitude" from A Trip to Bolgatanga (2023), "Fear of a Man God" from Voodoo of the Godsent (2011), "Orderliness, Godliness, Discipline and Dignity" from Songs of Praise (1990), and "Children of Misery" by Noah House of Dread from Heart (1980). Intro: "Stebani's Theme" from My Life in A Hole in the Ground (1981).

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/nem16 (code nem16). Check out the Banned Camp comedy podcast.

PREMIUM-Ep. 319: Schiller on Experiencing Beauty (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 17:18:33 +0000

We complete our treatment of On the Aesthetic Education of Man by considering its final letters in more detail.

Does Reason really make us more moral? And does the embrace of Beauty really point us to Reason, or does self-consciousness rule out immersion in art?

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 319: Schiller on Experiencing Beauty (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 11:10:33 +0000

Starting with letter 20 in On the Aesthetic Education of Man (1795), we tell more of the story of how art is supposed to get us from sensation to thinking.

Aesthetic perception ends up being essential to any conceptualization (thinking) whatsoever!

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PEL Presents PvI#54: Do You Want to Be Here? w/ Brain in a Vat

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark Oppenheimer and Jason Werbeloff of the Brain in a Vat podcast join Bill and Mark L. (aka Alf) to talk about rationality, broadly construed, while not moving a couch and not giving each other Christmas presents.

Does "reason" by itself tell us what to do and what to believe? Is trypophobia really just bigotry (it is not)? What's the rationale for making negative comments on a podcast? Are bigots bigger than bigamists? Was Ayn Rand a cannibal?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out the Banned Camp comedy podcast.

Ep. 319: Schiller on Experiencing Beauty (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 21:03:34 +0000

On the second half of Friedrich Schiller's On the Aesthetic Education of Man (1795), getting into the mechanics of how aesthetic experience work in giving us a midpoint between animality and pure rationality where we can feel free. Also, does art reveal truth?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get 15% off a newly-cheaper ($10/month) annual membership at MasterClass.com/pel. Visit GreenChef.com/pel60 and use code pel60 to get 60% off the #1 Meal Kit for Eating Well, plus free shipping.

PEL Presents PMP#151: Everybody's Talkin' 'Bout "Succession"

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

The regular gang (Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al) address Jesse Armstrong's prestige HBO dramedy that premiered in 2018 and has just wrapped up. Why all the fuss over this show? Is it really worthy of comparison to Shakespeare?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Get 50% off your first box of ready-to-eat meals at FactorMeals.com/pretty50 (use code pretty50). Check out the Banned Camp comedy podcast.

PEL Presents NEM#196: Michael Gira (Swans) Is Not Done

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 03:30:00 +0000

Swans started in the early '80s with a brutal sound gradually became more subtle and textured. The band broke up in 1995 after ten albums (and three other releases under the name World of Skin), then Michael released a couple of solo albums and six alt-country releases as Angels of Light before starting a new chapter of Swans in 2010 which has now released its sixth album.

We discuss "Michael Is Done" from The Beggar (2023), "It's Coming It's Real" from Leaving Meaning (2019), and "Power for Power" from Filth (1983). You then get to hear Michael's opus "The Beggar Lovers (Three)," also from the new album. Intro: "Screen Shot" from To Be Kind (2014). Hear more at swans.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PREMIUM-Ep. 318: Friedrich Schiller on the Civilizing Potential of Art (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:59:39 +0000

Mark and Wes dive deeper into the text of the first several letters of On the Aesthetic Education of Man (1795).

Are verbal descriptions of art destined to fall short? What is it to put yourself forward as a representative of your species? These and many more of Schiller's puzzling proclamations are debated in detail!

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 318: Friedrich Schiller on the Civilizing Potential of Art (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:29:11 +0000

We continue working through letters 1-15 of On the Aesthetic Education of Man (1795), helped by Markus Reuter.

We get clearer on what Schiller means by Beauty, and how two contrary drives toward matter and form somehow cancel each other out to combine in a "play drive" that is at the heart of appreciating and creating art.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

Sponsors: Get 15% off a newly-cheaper ($10/month) annual membership at MasterClass.com/pel. Check out the Jordan Harbinger Show at jordanharbinger.com/subscribe.

PEL Presents PMP#150: Dark Shadows w/ Kathryn Leigh Scott

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, and Sean Michael Cooney discuss the gothic romance vampire soap opera from 1966-1971 plus the spin-off movies and reboots. We interview one of the stars of the original show, the author Kathryn Leigh Scott, to talk about the appeal and enduring legacy of this show that was once massively popular but is now a quintessential cult property that will likely be rebooted for the fourth time within the next couple of years.

Is the show camp, or just low budget? Think of all the sensitive, reluctant vampires in today's media that this show launched! We're doing this show for Pride Month given its big gay following and leading gay actors.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Listen to The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

Ep. 318: Friedrich Schiller on the Civilizing Potential of Art (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 29 May 2023 12:09:54 +0000

Can art make us better people? Musician Markus Reuter joins Mark, Wes, and Seth to discussion the first half of On the Aesthetic Education of Man (1795).

Given the failure of the French Revolution, this famous German poet wondered what could make the masses capable of governing themselves? His answer: Beauty! Aesthetic appreciation puts us at a distance from our savage desires, enables the abstract thought necessary for Kantian rationalist morality, and yet keeps us in touch with our feelings so that we don't just become cogs in the industrial machine.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Secure your Internet and get three extra months free at ExpressVPN.com/PEL. Try The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

PEL Presents PvI#53: XTREME BEEF Quicheticles w/ Zach Thompson

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 27 May 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Zach is an improvisor who's written for MST3K, been a commentator for Resistance Pro Wrestling, and has been a recurring guest on Hello From the Magic Tavern.

He joins Mark and Bill to discuss competitiveness in all its forms. Is strife part of utopia, or would all conflict be removed in an ideal political situation? Is the controlled competitiveness of sports or improv games fundamentally different than mere aggression? Also, we chase a dog.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/improv16 (code improv16). Check out the Skeptoid podcast at skeptoid.com.

PREMIUM-Ep. 317: Character Philosophies in Dostoevsky's "Brothers Karamazov" (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 22 May 2023 12:04:49 +0000

To conclude our discussion of the novel, we turn to the philosophies of Dmitri and Ivan, plus the Biblical book of Job and our takeaways. Do we need some philosophy of transcendence to cope?

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents NEM#195: Nicholas Tremulis Reads Better Books

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 20 May 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Nick has fronted 10+ carefully arranged solo albums since 1985 in various styles from R&B to Latin to alt-country.

We discuss "Amanda and the God’s Honest Truth" from Rarified World (2021), "Buffalo Man" from Little Big Songs (2008), and "River of Love" from More Than Truth (1986). End song: "Super Human Love" from For the Baby Doll (2013). Intro: "Heartbeat Getting Stronger" from Nicholas Tremulis (1985). Follow @NickTremulis1.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 16 free meals and free shipping via HelloFresh.Com/nem16 (code nem16). Listen to The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

Ep. 317: Character Philosophies in Dostoevsky's "Brothers Karamazov" (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:32:11 +0000

Following up on our live episode, we further ponder the 1869 novel, revisiting the "problem of evil" arguments and how the various brothers cope with an imperfect world. Plus, we relate Dostoevsky to other existentialists.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a supporter-exclusive final part to this discussion.

PEL Presents PMP#149: Rocky and Creed

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 14 May 2023 13:00:00 +0000

It's our most successful sports film franchise ever, starting with the Best Picture winning, highest grossing film from 1976, through eight sequels to land us with Creed III.

Mark, Al, Sarahlyn, and Lawrence talk about the ups and downs of this journey. How can such an apparently simple formula stay fresh? Is there any rationale for a larger Rocky-verse?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: For ready-to-eat meal delivery, visit FactorMeals.com/pretty50 and use code pretty50 for 50% off your first box. Try the Straight To Video podcast at stvpod.com.

Ep. 316: Dostoevsky's "Brothers Karamazov": PEL Live in NYC (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 08 May 2023 11:46:13 +0000

Continuing on Dostoevsky's 1880 novel, we respond to some objections to the Christian arguments that the characters Alyosha and Zosima put forward to respond to Ivan's "Rebellion" and "Grand Inquisitor" arguments. Most of these objections come from the audience Q&A.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get lots of bonus content, including the ad-free, unbroken Citizen Edition of this episode.

Sponsors: Secure your Internet and get three extra months free at ExpressVPN.com/PEL. Try The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

PEL Presents PvI#52: Elegant Stoicism w/ Tanner Campbell

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 05 May 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Tanner runs the popular daily podcast Practical Stoicism, so of course we brought him on to talk about on-board flight services and attitudes among retail service workers.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Listen to The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

Ep. 316: Dostoevsky's "Brothers Karamazov": PEL Live in NYC (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 01 May 2023 13:10:34 +0000

On Fyodor Dostoevsky's 1880 existentialist novel, focusing mostly on the "Rebellion" and "Grand Inquisitor" chapters.

How can we reconcile ourselves to the existence of evil and suffering? The character Ivan argues that we can't, that children's suffering can't be justified by any alleged Divine Plan. Dostoevsky's answer to this challenge is practical, concrete love and service to others, but does this really address or merely sidestep Ivan's challenge?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get lots of bonus content, plus the ad-free, unbroken Citizen Edition of this episode.

Sponsors: Check out Continuing the Conversation by St. John's College at sjc.edu. Visit GreenChef.com/pel60 and use code pel60 to get 60% off the #1 Meal Kit for Eating Well, plus free shipping.

PEL Presents NEM#194: Vashti Bunyan Is Not a Folk Singer

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Vashti was discovered in the mid-60s by the Rolling Stones manager, recorded a seminal acoustic album in 1970, then quit music until her work was rediscovered in 2000, recording two albums and releasing an autobiography since then.

We discuss "I Want to Be Alone" (a 1965 single), "Rose Hip November" from Just Another Diamond Day (1970), "Wayward from Lookaftering (2005), and the title track from Heartleap (2014). Intro: "Train Song" (1966 single); the singles were released on Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind (2007). More at anotherday.co.uk.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Listen to The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman.

PREMIUM-Ep. 315: Mengzi (Mencius) on Virtuous Leaders (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:23:48 +0000

To conclude our treatment of this seminal Confucian text, we consider a particularly puzzling passage about ethics and then move to politics and economics.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents PMP#148: Resource Management Video Games

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Mark, Al, our editor Tyler Hislop, and Dr. Jamie Madigan of the Psychology of Video Games podcast talk about a wide range crafting and building games from Minecraft to Starcraft to Sim City to Civilization to Rimworld to Subnautica. Given what a time commitment these typically require, what makes some of them worthwhile?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsors: Listen to The Psychology Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman and The History of Literature Podcast with Jacke WIlson.

Ep. 315: Mengzi (Mencius) on Virtuous Leaders (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:01:00 +0000

Continuing from ep. 314, we go further into the collected teachings of this early Confucian (aka Ruhist) from the late 4th century BCE. What's the best way to be a virtuous person and hence an effective leader?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion, including a supporter-exclusive final part to this discussion.

Sponsor: Check out Continuing the Conversation by St. John's College at sjc.edu

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap April 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Recorded 4/3/23 as we prepped for our live show, Mark, Wes and Dylan talk about The Last of Us and possible future episodes on animal ethics and/or animal consciousness, the death drive, plus the already tentatively scheduled episodes about the Romantics and Kierkegaard. In the course of this, we consider the relationship between philosophy and scientific fact.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents NEM#193: Peter Case's Songs About Now

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Initially compared as a rock singer with John Lennon in the late '70s and early '80s with The Nerves and The Plimsouls, his subsequent sixteen solo albums beginning in 1986 have embraced blues, solo acoustic guitar, and on his new album, highly percussive piano (on his new album).

We discuss "Have You Ever Been in Trouble?" from Dr. Moan (2023), "Every 24 Hours" feat. Richard Thompson from Let Us Now Praise Sleepy John (2007), "When You Find Out" by the Nerves from their self-titled EP (1976). End song: "Anything" from Torn Again (1995). For more, see petercase.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 314: Mengzi (Mencius) on Moral Psychology (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:44:33 +0000

Continuing on the teachings of Mengzi from ca. 350 BCE, without our guest.

We go into textual quotes, covering the "sprouts" of virtue, whether human nature is good or simply malleable, whether tastes are universal, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Get your streaming or in-person ticket to our April 15 live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

Sponsor: Secure your Internet and get three extra months free at ExpressVPN.com/PEL.

Ep. 314: Mengzi (Mencius) on Moral Psychology (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:00:00 +0000

On the greatest early philosopher interpreting and expanding on Confucius, from ca. 350 BCE. with guest Krishnan Venkatesh of the St. John's College Eastern Classics program.

We talk about the challenges of connecting ancient Chinese and Greek philosophies and explore Mencius' distinctively Chinese take on respecting your parents.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Get your streaming or in-person ticket to our April 15 live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

If you like classic literature, try The Classic Tales Podcast at classictalesaudiobooks.com.

PEL Presents PvI#50: Pro Tips w/ Marla Cáceres

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Marla is an improviser from the Whirled News Tonight iO Theater show. We talk about obeying proper forms of behavior and drawing improv inspiration from outside sources. Plus, a thruple blind date and BBQ chain of custody. And introducing a new character, Lil' Confucius.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

PREMIUM-Ep. 313: Mozi's Political Ethics (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 02 Apr 2023 14:43:41 +0000

We get into quotes from Mozi about his arguments against fatalism and Confucianism, support for meritocracy and identifying with superiors, and description of the Will of Heaven.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PMP#147: Nostalgic Mysteries (Knives Out, Poker Face) from Rian Johnson

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 18:50:00 +0000

prettymuchpop.com, patreon.com/prettymuchpop

Ep. 313: Mozi's Political Ethics (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:54:31 +0000

Continuing on the central Mohist text, with guest Tzuchien Tho.

We talk about Mozi's ideas about encouraging morality, preventing war, restricting music and elaborate funerals, plus the Will of Heaven, identification with one's superiors, and fatalism.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and a supporter-exclusive part three to this discussion.

Sponsors: Check out the Continuing the Conversation web series by St. John's College at sjc.edu. Check out the Hermitix podcast at hermitix.net.

Get your streaming or in-person ticket to our April 15 live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

PEL Presents NEM#192: Guitarist Ivan Julian Serves the Song

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Ivan was a founding member of Richard Hell and the Voidoids in 1977, fronted The Outsets in the '80s, and has put out two solo albums while playing with Matthew Sweet, Shriekback, and other projects.

We discuss "I am Not a Drone (Alone)" (and listen to "Voodoo Christmas") from Swing Your Lanterns (2023), the title track from Naked Flame (2011), and "Liars Beware," by Richard Hell and the Voidoids from Blank Generation (1977). Other clips: "Everything or Nothing" by Outsets from Punk Voodoo Collection (1984) and "Someone to Pull the Trigger" by Matthew Sweet from Altered Beast (1993). For more, see ivanjulian.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon to get an extra Ivan song with some more interview footage.

Sponsor: Check out the Songs My Ex Ruined podcast.

Announcement: PEL Live April 15 in NYC, Streamed Worldwide

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Folks should join us on at the Caveat in Lower Manhattan on Saturday, 4/15/23 at 7pm ET. You can also stream the even either at the time or afterwards. See partiallyexaminedlife.com/live for tickets.

Ep. 313: Mozi's Political Ethics (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:32:11 +0000

On selections of the central Mohist text, from ca. 430 B.C.E., with guest Tzuchien Tho.

Mozi claims that we should regard everyone on the same level as our family and believe whatever doctrines will be most beneficial to the people.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including a new Nightcap discussion relevant to this episode about tributes to the dead.

Sponsors: Check out the Continuing the Conversation web series by St. John's College at sjc.edu. Check out The Daily Shower Thoughts Podcast at https://bit.ly/DailyShowerThoughts.

Get your streaming or in-person ticket to our April 15 live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

PEL Presents PvI#49: Ferrets in Uniform with Cole Nasrallah

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 03:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Philosophy vs. Improv, we talk transcendental idealism and Schopenhauer with Cole, who teaches philosophy at the College of Southern Nevada. Also, the least effective confidential informant!

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap Late March 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:38:43 +0000

Mark, Seth, and Dylan talk about what makes for a fitting tribute for those departed, mourning customs, how Daoism has personally affected us, and more.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 312: The Dao De Jing on Virtue (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:24:20 +0000

Concluding our discussion of the Daodejing with guest Theo Brooks. We cover some more ambiguous cosmological passages and return to political philosophy.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Get 3 months VPN free at ExpressVPN.com/pel. Check out the Hermitix podcast at hermitix.net.

PEL Presents #146: Black Panther Films and Comics

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Perhaps alone in the Marvel Universe, Black Panther is taken seriously as a political statement, both in the content of its stories and in how the films are produced. Wakanda purports to present an alternate historical condition of Africa had it not been colonized.

Mark, Lawrence Ware, Anthony LeBlanc, and Viola Burlew discuss the comics and films, getting into the political ideas, the social function, the heroic character, and the unique challenge of making the film when the main actor has died.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out the PopPsych101 podcast at anchor.fm/poppsych101.

PEL Presents NEM#191: Chris Slusarenko and John Moen As (And Before) Eyelids

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Chris and John are veterans of the Portland music scene since the mid '80s. By the '00s, John was drumming for bands like the Decembrists, while Chris was playing bass for Guided by Voices. They recorded together as Boston Spaceships (aka The Takeovers) with GBV frontman Robert Pollard from 2005-2011 and then founded Eyelids, which has now issued 17 releases including four full albums.

We discuss "Runaway, Yeah" from A Colossal Waste of Light (2023), "Seagulls Into Submission" from 854 (2014), "Shrunken Head" by Chris' band Svelt from Souvenir (1996), and we listen to "Blindfold Follies" by John's band The Maroons from You’re Gonna Ruin Everything (2002) and "Ceremony" by Eyelids from The Accidental Falls (2019). Intro: "My Will" by The Takeovers from Bad Football (2007). For more, see musicofeyelids.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsor: Try The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers podcast.

Ep. 312: The Dao De Jing on Virtue (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:58:33 +0000

For our second full discussion on the Daodejing by Laozi, we talk about the actions and attitudes that characterize the Daoist sage. With Theo Brooks.

Topics include being virtuous vs. just following rules, Daoist tranquility, achieving without trying too hard, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including a new Nightcap discussion about philosophy as self-help.

Sponsors: Get 60% off and free shipping for organic meal delivery at greenchef.com/pel60 (use code pel60). Check out The Adam Ferrara Podcast.

Get your streaming or in-person ticket to our April 15 live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/live.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap Early March 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 15:39:27 +0000

Mark, Wes, Dylan, and Seth reflect on the interpretive challenges of the Daodejing, and in the full Nightcap, take on the question of whether philosophy works as self-help.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 311: Understanding the Dao De Jing (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 12:25:41 +0000

Continuing on the central Daoist text with guest Theodore Brooks. We explore practical vs. metaphysical interpretations of the Dao, the relation of things to their opposites, emptiness, and "straw dogs."

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsors: Check out the Continuing the Conversation web series by St. John's College at sjc.edu. Subscribe to the Brain in a Vat podcast.

PEL Presents NEM#190: Jad Fair (Half Japanese): Being Productive = Being Yourself

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Jad estimates he's released over 180 albums between his band, solo, and collaborative work. He started Half Japanese with his brother David in 1975.

We discuss "Fate Is On Our Side" by Jad with Samuel Locke Ward from Happy Hearts (2023), "Hold On" by Half Japanese from Perfect (2016), "Frankenstein Must Die" (1977), "Do It To It" from Now It's Back (2021), and conclude by listening to "Cupid" by Teenage Fanclub and Jad from Words of Wisdom and Hope (2002). Intro: "Said and Done" by Half Japanese from Charmed Life (1988). For more see jadfair.net. For the results of Jad's 150 albums in one year experiment, see jadfair1.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 15% off at at MasterClass.com/examined. Try the Inside the Mix podcast at marcmatthewsproducer.com/inside-the-mix-podcast.

PEL Presents PMP#145: Growing Up Sitcommed

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Sarahlyn, Lawrence, and guest Landen Celano from the Grunt Work podcast talk about talk about our ambivalence toward the three-camera, laugh-tracked half-hour comedies that filled our childhoods. Why did some of these stand the test of time? Are some shows well suited for hate-watching or background watching? Why the Night Court reboot doing so well?

We touch on some new shows like Kevin Can F*** Himself and Reboot that reflect on sitcom tropes, shows that subverted the format even at the time (Norman Lear), the juggernaut that is Chuck Lorre, catch phrases, and our memories of Three's Company, Happy Days, Good Times, Saved by the Bell, A Different World, etc.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 311: Understanding the Dao De Jing (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 14:00:17 +0000

On the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) by Laozi (ca. 500 BCE), with guest Theodore Brooks.

We talk about the wildly different, interpretive translations of this foundational Daoist (Taoist) text, its political views, and what the Dao might actually be.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the Continuing the Conversation web series by St. John's College at sjc.edu.

Buy tickets to attend or live-stream our discussion of Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov in NYC on April 15.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #48: Debates in the Orthaganon

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Mark and Bill act out a couple of scenes of a person trying to convince a stubborn person of something. But there's a twist in the characterization! Also, before you were born, the world did not exist.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out the Self Esteem Party podcast on TheSonarNetwork.com.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap February 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 16:49:37 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Seth anticipate our Dao De Jing and Dostoevsky recordings and talk about Russian literature. In the full episode, we also talk about covering Hebrew ethics, and, of course, Chat f-ing GPT.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 310: Wittgenstein On World-Pictures (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:34:10 +0000

Concluding our discussion of On Certainty, with guest Chris Heath.

We try one last time to get a handle on Wittgenstein's philosophy of science. How do people actually change their minds about fundamental beliefs?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including a new Nightcap discussion that includes exclusive advance access to tickets to our 4/15 live show.

Sponsors: Get 60% off and free shipping for organic meal delivery at greenchef.com/pel60 (use code pel60). Check out the Philosophers in Space podcast.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #47: What's In the Chili? w/ Rachael Mason

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Rachael was a mentor of Bill's and works with him at the newly reopened iO Theater. So it's like we have TWO improv instructors here. We run some scenes, talk a bit too much about chili, and touch on functionalism, idealism, napism, and other isms. Jump into the marzipan! Brucie and Frucie are waiting for you!

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions, video versions of recent episodes, and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out the History Cache Podcast.

PEL Presents PMP#144: Androids and Us

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Do movie robots want to love us, be us, or kill us? Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al talk through various ethical and narrative problems having to do with the creation of artificial life.

We all watched M3GAN and Steve Spielberg's A.I., and also touch on After Yang, Ex Machina, Bicentennial Man, the BBC show Humans, and of course this is an element in classic sci-fi properties like Alien, Blade Runner, Star Trek, etc.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 310: Wittgenstein On World-Pictures (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:27:57 +0000

We continue with Ludwig Wittgenstein's On Certainty (written 1951), with guest Christopher Heath.

What is Wittgenstein's philosophy of science as it's reflected in this book? We talk about Weltbilds (world pictures) and how these relate to language games, relativism, verification, paradigms, testimony, and more.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Try the History That Doesn't Suck podcast. Attend our live show in NYC on April 15.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap January 2023

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

We compare translations of Dostoyevsky in prep for our April live show, discuss future show topics, and go over insights from our past discussions on Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 309: Wittgenstein On Certainty (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:17:17 +0000

Continuing to discuss On Certainty, we get deeply into textual quotes.

How does he actually respond to Moore's argument about his hand? How does he extend his account to talk about mathematical and scientific statements? Is Wittgenstein a pragmatist?

Check out the Tolkien Road Podcast at TolkienRoad.com. Keep up to date with the PEL 4/15 NYC live show at partiallyexaminedlife.com/liveshow.

PEL Presents PvI#46: Seize the Day How Exactly? w/ Nick Riggle

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 04:30:00 +0000

What does the shortness of our lives and the beauty of the world actually entail in terms of behavior and philosophy? Nick is a former pro skater who teaches philosophy at U. of San Diego and has written This Beauty about this question.

Mark and Bill engage Nick via car wash planning, the appearance of Bill's imaginary friend, Groundhog Day, and other invitations to awesomeness.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out Spencer Wants to Know.

PEL Presents PMP#143: Pinocchio the Unfilmable (Yet Frequently Filmed)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 28 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al discuss the original 1883 freaky children's story and consider the recent rush of film versions, from a new Disney/Robert Zemikis CGI take to Guillermo del Toro's stop-motion passion project to a heavily costumed Italian version by Matteo Garrone. Why do people keep remaking this story, and how has the original moral of "be a good boy and obey" changed over the years?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

If you like this podcast, try The Social Breakdown at TheSocialBreakdown.com.

Ep. 309: Wittgenstein On Certainty (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:33:33 +0000

Discussing the notes Ludwig Wittgenstein made at the end of his life in 1951 that were published as On Certainty in 1969.

Can we coherently doubt propositions like "physical objects exist," "the world is more than 50 years old," and "this is my hand"? Wittgenstein looks at these questions via his framework of language games. Is doubting one of these a legitimate move in a game?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Check out the Overthink podcast and Conversations with Coleman. Attend our live show in NYC on April 15.

PEL Presents PMP#142: Lyric Literality w/ Dave Philpott

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:39:10 +0000

Since 2008, Dave has written cheeky (but actually heavily researched) letters to rock stars that point out logical flaws in and/or deliberately misunderstand their lyrics. Many of these have been answered by the artists and housed in three books: Dear Mr. Kershaw, Dear Mr. Popstar, and Grammar Free In The U.K.

Mark and Al Baker talk to Dave about the "green ink" stereotype in British comedy, metaphors in songwriting, how meaning escapes the intentions of the author, the clash between lyrical meaning and musical style, avoiding clichés, and more.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Prewsents NEM#188: Pat Irwin (Raybeats, B-52s, SUSS) Writes for TV (and Himself)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Pat started in the late '70s New York No Wave scene with 8-Eyed spy, but quickly got into soundtrack work for shows like Nurse Jackie, plus cartoons and indie films.

We discuss clips from Dexter: New Blood (2022), Bored to Death (2011), and Rocco's Modern Life (feat. the B-52s, with whom he was playing at the time in 1992), plus "In Another Time" from Duets for Electric Guitar and Piano (2018) (the outro is the version of that with J. Walter Hawkes from Wide Open Sky (2019)), "Hoodlum Priest" by The Raybeats from Glass: The Lost Philip Glass Sessions (1982), and conclude by listening to "Winter Was Hard" (2022) by SUSS.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Get 15% off an annual membership masterclass.com/examined. Check out Music Rewind at musicrewindpodcast.com.

Ep. 308: Moore's Proof of Mind-Independent Reality (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:44:55 +0000

We quickly complete our treatment of G.E. Moore’s "Proof of the External World" (1939) and move on to consider "Certainty" (1941).

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and first crack at tickets for PEL Live in Manhattan on April 15.

Sponsors: Check out the Weird Studies podcast at weirdstudies.com. Get a highly effective donation of up to $100 matched at Givewell.org, pick PODCAST and enter THE PARTIALLY EXAMINED LIFE at checkout.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #45: Meaningful Road Trips w/ Dee Bradley Baker

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Voice actor Dee, who has a background in both improv and stand-up, talks to Mark and Bill about the meaning of life and engages in THREE scenes all about a parent trying to get some kids into a vehicle and on the road. Also, does COVID cause ennui?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

Sponsor: Check out Killed to Death, an improvised true crime podcast.

Ep. 308: Moore's Proof of Mind-Independent Reality (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 13:00:23 +0000

On G.E. Moore’s "Proof of the External World" (1939) and "Certainty" (1941).

Moore shows you his hands and says "these are my hands, which are physical objects, and thus the external world exists!" Does this defeat skepticism?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Check out the Overthink podcast and Conversations with Coleman. Attend our live show in NYC on April 15.

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap 2022 Wrap-Up

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 15:46:04 +0000

Recorded by Mark, Wes, and Dylan before our Moore discussion, we play one more listener appreciation clip that leads us into an examination of whether you listeners should try to read the texts we cover yourselves.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents NEM#187: Eszter Balint Interprets Her Past

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Eszter is an actor/musician, gaining initial fame starring in Jim Jarmusch's first major film Stranger Than Paradise (1984). She has released four albums of often autobiographical songs since 1998.

We discuss "The First Day" (and end by listening to "Freaks") from I Hate Memory (2022) feat. Stew and Syd Straw; this album has been made into a stage show. We then turn to "Exit at 63" from Airless Midnight (2015) and "Almost Gone" from Flicker (1998). The introduction is the theme from her debut film, Screamin' Jay Hawkins' "I Put a Spell on You." For more, see eszterbalint.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Upgrade your showering at nebia.com/nem (code NEM). Check out Jughead's Basement (a punk music interview podcast) at jugheadsbasementpodcast.com

Ep. 307: G.E. Moore Defends Common Sense (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 13:53:13 +0000

Continuing on "A Defense of Common Sense" (1925). Moore argues that physical facts are not dependent on minds and considers the various ways of analyzing the act of seeing and identifying your hand. Yes, he really does this!

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including our year-end Nightcap discussion.

Sponsors: Check out The Mad Scientist Podcast at themadscientistpodcast.com. Get a highly effective donation of up to $100 matched at Givewell.org, pick PODCAST and enter THE PARTIALLY EXAMINED LIFE at checkout.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #44: Stand-Up vs. Improv w/ Matty Goldberg

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

As our first stand-up comedian (albeit one on sabbatical) guest, Matty has inspired us to largely ignore the philosophy on this one and instead look at these two different ways of producing comedy. Do the motivations of improv folks and comics differ? Which group is more annoying?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff, including a video version of this episode.

Sponsor: Check out the A Pastor and a Philosopher Walk Into a Bar podcast.

Ep. 307: G.E. Moore Defends Common Sense (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 13:27:03 +0000

On "A Defense of Common Sense" (1925), featuring Mark, Wes, Seth, and Dylan.

Moore defends our pre-philosophical certainty in beliefs about the existence of physical objects and other minds against skeptics and idealists. Is his apparently simple argument effective or just glib?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the Meta Minds podcast at metamindstherapy.com.

Pretty Much Pop #141: Christmas Songs

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 03:30:00 +0000

The PMP A-Team (Mark, Lawrence, Sarahlyn, and Al) talk about the canon of Christmas songs, from centuries-old carols to current attempts by pop stars to get added to this cycle of cash-flow. Happy holidays, everybody!

We also do a bit of year-end reflection, getting into various things we've watched with some recommendations and ambivalent reflections.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out RetroZest podcast at retrozest.com.

PEL Presents (sub)Text: Pagan Poetics in “Sunday Morning” by Wallace Stevens

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 25 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Wallace Stevens was an ungainly insurance executive, but his poetry is serene and secularly reverential. In particular, his poem “Sunday Morning” seems to suggest that the rhythm of the natural world—if we give it enough rapt attention—is as good as any chant or prayer. But can a return to nature worship solve the problem of nihilism, once monotheism has been eclipsed by modernity? Are memory and desire as permanent heaven, and can the poet become their high priest? “Sunday Morning” is a poetic dialogue about these questions. And whether or not we’re satisfied with its conclusion that the world is nothing more than an “old chaos of the sun,” the poem itself is an orderly and beautiful form of communion.

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, MasterClass, where you can learn from the world’s best minds--anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace. This holiday, give one annual membership and get one free by going to masterclass.com/subtext.

Subscribe: (sub)Text won’t always be in the PEL feed, so please subscribe to us directly: Apple | Spotify | Android | RSSBonus content: The conversation continues on our after-show (post)script. Get this and other bonus content at by subscribing at Patreon or directly on the Apple Podcasts app. Follow (sub)Text: Twitter | Facebook | Website

PREMIUM-Ep. 306: Dworkin and the Dobbs Decision (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 24 Dec 2022 22:29:19 +0000

Concluding on the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2021) Supreme Court decision. We talk more about the rationale for the decision and in particular the dissent by Breyer, Sotomayor, and Kagan.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 306: Dworkin and the Dobbs Decision (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:22:16 +0000

Continuing on Ronald Dworkin's "Unenumerated Rights: Whether and How Roe Should be Overruled" (1992) and the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (2021) decision featuring guest Robin Linsenmayer.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including the supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

Sponsors: Visit StoryWorth.com/pel to save $10 making it easy for your loved one to write their story. Get a highly effective donation of up to $100 matched at Givewell.org, pick PODCAST and enter THE PARTIALLY EXAMINED LIFE at checkout.

PEL Presents NEM#186: Simon Ratcliffe (Basement Jaxx, Village of the Sun): From House Music to Jazz Fusion

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Simon has produced programmed dance music since the early '90s, winning Grammys and topping charts with his partner Felix Buxton as Basement Jaxx through their seven albums and several EPs.

We discuss "Village of the Sun" by his new project of that name from First Light (2022), "Flying by the Sun" by Ratcliffe from Dorus Rijkers EP (2011), to "Alkazaar" by Basement Jaxx from Zephyr (2009), and "Ephemerol" a 1992 single Simon released under the name Tic Tac Toe. Intro: "Where's Your Head At" by Basement Jaxx from Rooty (2001). For more, see thevillageofthesun.bandcamp.com and basementjaxx.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Buy one annual membership and get one free at masterclass.com/examined. Upgrade your showering at nebia.com/nem (code NEM).

Ep. 306: Dworkin and the Dobbs Decision (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:09:32 +0000

Does the U.S. Constitution guarantee the right to an abortion? We discuss Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (2021) and Ronald Dworkin's "Unenumerated Rights: Whether and How Roe Should be Overruled" (1992). With guest Robin Linsenmayer.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Check out the Conversations with Coleman podcast.

PREMIUM-Ep. 305: Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 22:14:29 +0000

To conclude our discussion of Blood Meridian, we talk about the roles of maturation and regression in the novel, plus more on Judge Holden's philosophy, and more.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 305: Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 14:05:34 +0000

Continuing on McCarthy's 1985 novel, we discuss the philosophy of war held by the character Judge Holden, plus whether the book's violence is gratuitous and why it might be unfilmable.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including the supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

The Partially Examined Life is sponsored by BetterHelp. Save 10% of your first month of therapy at BetterHelp.com/partially.

Get a highly effective donation of up to $100 matched at Givewell.org, pick PODCAST and enter THE PARTIALLY EXAMINED LIFE at checkout.

PEL Presents PMP#139: The Sandman Cometh

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

We cover the first chunk of Neil Gaiman's 1989 comic and its new Netflix adaptation. Mark is joined by Anthony LeBlanc, Sarahlyn Bruck, and Al Baker.

What are the narrative challenges of depicting a god? What is the show's metaphysics the role of storytelling in it? Were the updates and story choices for the TV show helpful, or was the comic truly "unfilmable," as was long thought?

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Presents NEM#185: Bruce Thomas' Bass Lines Before, After, and During the Attractions

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Bruce is best known as Elvis Costello's bassist for his first on about a dozen albums as The Attractions, but he's been in bands since 1970 and has done numerous session gigs.

We discuss his work on "Blood Makes Noise" by Susanne Vega from 99.9 Degrees (1992), play clips from several of the most famous Attractions tunes plus "La La La La Loved You" by The Attractions from Mad About the Wrong Boy (1980), the first half of the title track of Quiver's Gone in the Morning (1972), and we conclude by listening to "There's a Place" by Spencer Brown and Bruce Thomas from Back to the Start (2018). Intro: "Radio Radio" by The Attractions feat. Fito Paez from Spanish Model (2021). For more info, see brucethomas.co.uk.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Buy and sell music products like beats, loops, etc. at beatstars.com/NEM, which is free for beginners, or get a free one-month virtual store using code NEM. Upgrade your showering at nebia.com/nem (code NEM).

Ep. 305: Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 05:49:48 +0000

On McCarthy's 1985 anti-Western novel, featuring Wes, Seth, and Dylan.

How does violence play a role in the way the world works? This novel about a rogue band of scalp hunters presents a pessimistic, nihilistic philosophy where violence is central to the human condition and is the way to self-knowledge.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Subscribe to Talk Nerdy with Cara Santa Maria.

PEL Presents (sub)Text: Production for Use in “His Girl Friday”

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 22:00:00 +0000

Before she settles down to life of homemaking, security, and insurance policies with Bruce Baldwin in Albany, star reporter Hildy Johnson has one more story to write for her ex-husband and ex-boss Walter Burns, editor of the Morning Post. Hildy must write up an interview with convicted killer Earl Williams that will grant him a last-minute reprieve on the basis of insanity. The ingenious angle she finds to prove he’s insane: Earl listened to so many soapbox speeches in the park about the socialist concept of “production for use” that when a gun was placed into his hands, he had to shoot it.

Howard Hawks’s 1940 film His Girl Friday knits together two plots from two very different genres. One is a romantic comedy that intends to reunite its main couple in something like wedded bliss. The other is a dark drama of murder and corruption, complete with a gallows lurking just outside the window and a suicide attempt that takes place on screen. Yet Earl Williams and Hildy Johnson’s fates in their respective plots are twinned. Both are, in a sense, looking for their own reprieves. And Hildy has her own production-for-use dilemma. What was she made for—the life of a newspaperman, or the life of a housewife? To what kinds of production should we devote our own lives? What are we made for—risk and adventure or security and insurance? Wes & Erin discuss.

Subscribe: (sub)Text won’t always be in the PEL feed, so please subscribe to us directly: Apple | Spotify | Android | RSS

Bonus content: The conversation continues on our after-show (post)script. Get this and other bonus content at by subscribing at Patreon or directly on the Apple Podcasts app.

Follow (sub)Text: Twitter | Facebook | Website

PREMIUM-PEL Nightcap November 2022: Listener Testimonials

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 15:42:04 +0000

We recently put out a call among our supporters for some short audio clips of folks telling us about their relationship to PEL, and here they are. Mark, Seth, and Dylan play and respond to some of these.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 304: Dworkin v. Hart on Legal Judgment (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:21:20 +0000

Continuing on Roland Dworkin's "The Model of Rules" (1967) and Scott J. Shapiro's "The 'Hart-Dworkin' Debate: A Short Guide for the Perplexed" (2007), plus some of Dworkin's "Hard Cases" (1977).

How do Hartians respond to Dworkin's initial attack? Can Hart's theory incorporate the fact that judges consult their culture's moral standards without making the law dependent on morality?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including the supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

Sponsor: Check out the Profoundly Pointless podcast at profoundlypointless.com.

PEL Presents PMP#138: What Are "Creatives"?

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Is there really a division in today's culture between those who create and the merely receptive masses? Mark gathers three artists in different media about the place of the artist in society: sci-fi author Brian Hirt, art photographer and academic Amir Zaki, and musician/novelist/ex-English prof John Andrew Fredrick (of The Black Watch).

We touch on art education, the self-understanding of artists, the relation between artist and consumer, art vs. commerce, bad art vs. non-art, and much more.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PEL Presents NEM#184: Mike Baggetta Feels Out the Guitar

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Mike has put out 18 releases of largely instrumental guitar music since 2004 and is now playing with legendary bassist Mike Watt and with drummer by either Jim Keltner.

We discuss the title track to Everywhen We Go (2022), "Hospital Song" from Wall of Flowers (2019), and "The Mystery Of" from Main Street Stop Valve (2020). End song: "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Social Justice" from mssv Meets Nels Cline (a 2022 EP). Intro: The title track by Tin/Bag from There, Just As You Look For It (2005). For more see mikebaggetta.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Upgrade your showering at nebia.com/nem (code NEM). Get 15% off at at MasterClass.com/examined.

Ep. 304: Dworkin v. Hart on Legal Judgment (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 13:17:32 +0000

On Ronald Dworkin's "The Model of Rules" (1967) and Scott J. Shapiro's "The 'Hart-Dworkin' Debate: A Short Guide for the Perplexed" (2007).

How do judges make decisions in hard cases? When the law "runs out" and doesn't definitively decide an issue, do judges then just draw on their personal moral judgments? Dworkin says no, that moral principles are (contra Hart) built into the legal principles which guide judges, even if these principles are not written out in legal rules.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Visit StoryWorth.com/pel to save $10 making it easy for your loved one to write their story.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #42: The Worth of a Human Life w/ Carneades the YouTube Star

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 18:00:00 +0000

The anonymous policy wonk who runs the Carneades.org YouTube channel joins Mark and Bill to discuss the core concept of his new book, Are All Lives Equal?: Why Cost-Benefit Analysis Values Rich Lives More and How Philosophy Can Fix It.

Should economics really be measuring the value of life at all? Can it do this in any principled way? Can economists really understand how much joy cat videos really bring us? What should parasitic micro-organisms value? Were all the world's religions originally infections diseases? No question is off the table!

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

PREMIUM-Ep. 303: H.L.A. Hart on the Foundations of Law (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 20:47:53 +0000

On The Concept of Law (1961), ch. 6, "Foundations of a Legal System," on Hart's concept of a rule of recognition that ultimately determines what will count as a law in a given society. This ends up being more complicated than merely "The Constitution," but the action itself of officials respecting, obeying, and enforcing that Constitution.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 303: H.L.A. Hart on the Foundations of Law (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:40:03 +0000

Continuing on "Positivism and the Separation of Law and Morals" (1958) and The Concept of Law (1961), ch. 5 and 6.

If law is not based on morality, then why obey the law? What makes a legal system exist at all, as opposed to a lawless state? Is saying something is legally required just a way of predicting that people will generally obey it?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including the supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

Sponsor: Get 10% off a month of therapy at BetterHelp.com/partially.

PEL Presents PMP#137: Slashing the "Halloween" Film Franchise

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 18:00:00 +0000

What's the appeal of this 13-film franchise that started with John Carpenter's 1978 film Halloween and has purportedly wrapped up with David Gordon Green's Halloween Ends?

Mark Linsenmayer, Al Baker, Lawrence Ware, and Nathan Shelton debate the ideology and effectiveness of the various films.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Sponsor: Check out The Create Unknown podcast.

Pretty Much Pop #136: Nathan Fielder's "The Rehearsal"

Mark Linsenmayer — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 14:21:09 +0000

Mark, Lawrence, Sarah, and Al convene an emergency podcast recording to react to this brilliant, mind-blowing, possibly immoral HBO comedy docuseries, wherein Fielder supposedly helps ordinary people rehearse difficult personal confrontations.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

Ep. 303: H.L.A. Hart on the Foundations of Law (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 11:54:56 +0000

On "Positivism and the Separation of Law and Morals" (1958) and The Concept of Law (1961), ch. 5 and 6.

What's the relationship between law and morality? If law isn't founded on morality, what is it founded on? Hart's legal positivism makes a sharp distinction between law as a human invention and morality.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Try the Mind Escape podcast to explore consciousness and fringe narratives.

PEL Presents Philosophy vs. Improv #41: Situatedness in Three Persons w/ Sarah Shockey

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 22:30:00 +0000

What is personhood? How can a group best collaboratively invent a scene? Sarah is a host of Marty and Sarah Love Wrestling and a repeat guest on Hello From the Magic Tavern. We fit in THREE scenes, some discussion of the various layers of what it is for something to be (or not be) person, and some musings about the weather and such.

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.

PEL Presents NEM#183: Neil Gust (No. 2, Heatmiser) Walks Around

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Neil is known as the long-time collaborator of the late Elliot Smith in the Portland band Heatmiser, which released three albums and an EP starting in 1993. Then Neil fronted the band No. 2 for two albums before taking a break until recently from music.

We discuss "You Might Be Right" (and listen at the end to "I'm on a Mission") from the new No. 2 album First Love, "Critical Mass" from No Memory (1999), and "Why Did I Decide to Stay" by Heatmiser from Cop and Speeder (1994). Intro: "Rest My Head Against the Wall" by Heatmiser from Mic City Sons (1996). Hear more at no2music.bandcamp.com.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Sponsors: Upgrade your showering at nebia.com/nem (code NEM). Check out the Unsung Podcast for more music chatting.

PREMIUM-Ep. 302: Erasmus Praises Foolishness (Part Three)

Mark Linsenmayer — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 14:52:57 +0000

Mark, Wes, and eventually Dylan recap The Praise of Folly, getting into Erasmus' ambivalent take on asceticism.

In the full episode, we get seriously personal and cover his sexism and comments on love, the folly of fandom, and the role of humor in philosophy.

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

Ep. 302: Erasmus Praises Foolishness (Part Two)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:44:07 +0000

Continuing on The Praise of Folly with guest Nathan Gilmour.

Can foolishness actually make us more prudent? Is it necessary for us to all get along in the world and accomplish things? Erasmus critiques pretentious, performative theologians among many others.

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion including the supporter-exclusive part three to this episode.

PEL Presents NEM#182: Allan and Barb Vest Together as doubleVee

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Through the 00's and four studio albums, Allan led the "baroque pop" Oklahoma band Starlight Mints. Then he met his wife Barb; as doubleVee, they've released two albums and an EP since 2017.

The three of us talk about "The Middle Side of Me" from Treat Her Strangely (2022), then the title track from Jack the Rider (2017), then "Submarine #3" by Starlight Mints from The Dream That Stuff Was Made Of (2000). End song: "Map the Channels" from Songs for Birds and Bats (2019). Intro: "Eyes of the Night" by Starlight Mints from Drowaton (2006). More at doublevee.net.

Hear more Nakedly Examined Music. Like our Facebook page. Support us on Patreon.

Ep. 302: Erasmus Praises Foolishness (Part One)

Mark Linsenmayer — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:36:00 +0000

On Desiderius Erasmus' The Praise of Folly (1509), featuring Mark, Wes, Dylan, and Nathan Gilmour from the Christian Humanist podcast. Does some amount of foolishness enhance life?

Get more at partiallyexaminedlife.com. Visit partiallyexaminedlife.com/support to get ad-free episodes and tons of bonus discussion.

Sponsor: Visit Shopify.com/pel to start your free trial growing your business.

PEL Presents PMP#135: The Breaking Bad-O-Verse

Mark Linsenmayer — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Given the end of Better Call Saul, Mark, Lawrence Ware, Sarahlyn Bruck, and Al Baker discuss this strange TV "franchise" that amazingly produced a prequel that was arguably better than the original. We cover the characterization and pacing, novelistic TV vs. not having a plot roadmap in advance, and whether we want to see another installment in this world.

For more, visit prettymuchpop.com. Hear bonus content at patreon.com/prettymuchpop or by subscribing via Apple Podcasts to the Mark Lintertainment Channel.

PREMIUM-PEL Representation Nightcap October 2022

Mark Linsenmayer — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:52:27 +0000

Mark, Wes, and Dylan explore the question, "Is it necessary for us to have representatives of an affected group with us as guests when we talk about an issue in philosophy that affects that group?" What do you think?

If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.

PEL Presents PvI#40: Rules and Voices with Stephen West (Philosophize This!)

Mark Linsenmayer — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Stephen West from the juggernaut Philosophize This! podcast joins Mark and Bill to learn to say no and talk about reason vs. emotion in grounding ethics. What do the voices in your head (or at your lunch table) say to you?

Mark philosophizes at partiallyexaminedlife.com.

Bill improvises (and teaches) at chicagoimprovstudio.com.

Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast to get all our post-game discussions and other bonus stuff.