Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Philosophy Crossroads, host Hanson Wen engages with Dr. Frank Saunders, an esteemed philosopher from Hong Kong Chu High College, specializing in Chinese comparative and cross-cultural philosophy. Dive deep into the profound concepts of Daoism, the role of Dao in ethics, and the intriguing intersections with Western and Indian philosophical traditions. Dr. Saunders shares his insights on the Dao, its application in modern life, and how cross-cultural philosophies can reshape our understanding of ethics and truth. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance.

Send us a Text Message.Begging for an ultimate purpose for everything is typically unanswered. Existentialists argue that there is, in fact, no inherent meaning in life. Purpose originates from  solely from oneself, but it may be hard to navigate this depressing landscape. With no hardcore philosophy, this episode of Philosophy Crossroads simply serves to map a quick introduction to how you be true to yourself, and find what you most value.

Send us a Text Message.In this enlightening episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we are joined by Mr. Matt White, a dedicated philosophy lecturer and Ph.D. candidate from the University of Cape Town. Delve into a compelling discussion that spans the intriguing realms of epistemology and the ethics of technology. Mr. White shares his transition from studying philosophical skepticism to tackling the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and simulated realities. Discover the complexities of simulation ethics, the moral status of virtual beings, and the provocative simulation hypothesis. Whether you're a philosophy enthusiast or simply curious about the intersection of technology and ethics, this conversation offers profound insights into how virtual worlds might shape our moral landscape.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we dive into the deep waters of moral skepticism, questioning the existence and knowability of moral truths. From the argument from disagreement to Mackie's argument from queerness, we explore the compelling cases for skepticism. However, the journey doesn't end there. We also consider the resilient defenses against skepticism, such as common sense realism and the practical necessity of morality. Join us on this philosophical voyage as we challenge our moral convictions and deepen our understanding of moral philosophy.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we dive deep into the heart of ethical discussion and explore the distinction between cognitivism and non-cognitivism in meta ethics. We examine what exactly we're doing when we make moral statements—are we stating facts or merely expressing our feelings? Tune in as we unravel the philosophical underpinnings of both views and their profound implications on how we engage in moral discourse.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we delve into the complex world of moral realism and anti-realism. We explore the philosophical arguments that advocate for the existence of objective moral facts, as well as those that challenge this notion. Throughout our journey, we consider the profound implications these theories have for how we understand morality, negotiate ethical disagreements, and navigate the complexities of a diverse world.

Send us a Text Message.In this series of Metaethics, we embark on a captivating journey into the heart of metaethics, exploring the profound questions that underpin our moral beliefs and ethical discourse. From the historical roots of moral philosophy to the pressing debates of cognitivism vs. non-cognitivism and moral realism vs. anti-realism, we delve deep into the essence of what it means to make moral judgments, the nature of moral facts, and the intricate language of morality. Join us as we navigate through these philosophical landscapes, uncovering the significance of metaethical inquiry not just for scholars, but for anyone seeking to understand the deeper layers of ethical life and human values.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersections and divergences between the philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche and Indian/Buddhist thought. We delve into concepts such as Nietzsche's Will to Power, the Übermensch, and eternal recurrence, and contrast these with Buddhist principles like Anatta, Karma, Dharma, Moksha, and Nirvana. This philosophical journey sheds light on profound insights about the nature of self, existence, and morality, and their implications in our contemporary world. Join us as we navigate the complexities of these philosophies, seeking a deeper understanding of the self and the world around us.

Send us a Text Message.This is the last episode where we delve deep into the core content of Plato's "The Republic," exploring its writing background, the philosophical discussions it presents, and its challenging ideas. We discuss the three waves of gender equality: community of property, wives and children, and the philosopher king. We also grapple with the concepts of justice, truth, and the nature of reality itself, seen through Plato's intricate analogies. Join us as we navigate through the volatile world of ancient Greek politics and the captivating philosophical rabbit holes of Plato's thought.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of the Republic series, we continue to delve into the intricate philosophical views of Socrates as presented in Plato's "The Republic". We explore the complex analogy Socrates constructs between the soul and the city-state, and the definition of the four virtues within each. We also examine the notion of a "noble lie" and how it is used to maintain order and harmony within a city-state. The concepts of justice and the health of the soul are brought to the forefront, reminding us of the importance of maintaining a healthy soul for a good life. Tune in as we continue our journey into the philosophies of Socrates and Plato.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of the Republic Series, we delve into the life and philosophy of Plato. We explore how his experiences, including the political upheaval in Athens, the death of his mentor Socrates, and his failed attempts to create a philosopher-king, shaped his philosophical views. We then take a deep dive into his masterpiece, "The Republic," discussing the three views of justice it challenges - the everyday idea, the realpolitik view, and the contractarian understanding. The episode ends with a look at the challenge presented by Plato's brothers, Glaucon and Adeimantus, who question the inherent goodness of justice. Join us as we journey through the world of Plato, exploring his profound insights and enduring influence.

Send us a Text Message.In this thought-provoking episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we dive deep into the heart of absurdism, a philosophical perspective that explores the human struggle for meaning in an indifferent universe. Guided by the insights of Albert Camus, we unravel the essence of the absurd condition, the rebellion against this absurdity, and the concept of the absurd hero who navigates life's inherent meaninglessness with defiance and authenticity. From the historical roots of absurdism and its distinction from existentialism to its ethical implications and relevance in today's world facing existential threats, we journey through the philosophical landscape to understand how embracing the absurd can lead to a more liberated and meaningful existence. Join us as we confront the silence of the universe and discover the potential for joy, passion, and purpose in the face of the absurd.

Send us a Text Message.In this illuminating episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we embark on a profound journey into the heart of existentialism to explore the concept of authenticity. Delving into the minds of existentialist giants such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, and Heidegger, we uncover the essence of living authentically in a world that often pressures us to conform. From the historical roots of existentialist authenticity to its challenges and manifestations in the modern era, we navigate the complex interplay between freedom, responsibility, and the quest for a genuine existence. Join us as we dissect the impact of social media, consumer culture, and the sense of alienation on our ability to live true to ourselves. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own paths towards authenticity, offering insights into how we might embrace our existential freedom and craft lives of deep, personal meaning. Tune in to "Unveiling Authenticity: A Journey Through Existentialist Thought" for a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to live authentically in an existential world.

Send us a Text Message.In this thought-provoking episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we welcome Dr. Yan Xiaojun, an associate professor of politics and public administration at the University of Hong Kong. As a leading expert on authoritarian politics and political development in contemporary China, Dr. Yan provides profound insights into the complex interplay between traditional Chinese philosophical concepts like Confucianism and Legalism and modern Chinese politics. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical debates around political legitimacy and citizens' obligation to obey in China and Western democracies, the role and purpose of the state versus the individual in Chinese philosophical thought, and how historical philosophies impact political accountability, transparency, and the rule of law in China today.

Send us a Text Message.In this thought-provoking episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we delve into the intricate philosophical debate surrounding Bernard Mandeville's controversial theory that private vices can lead to public virtues. From the historical roots in 'The Fable of the Bees' to modern-day economic and ethical implications, we examine how personal greed, ambition, and desire might unexpectedly contribute to societal progress. Join us as we navigate the complex interplay between individual morality and collective welfare, challenging conventional views on ethics and economics. This episode promises to provide a nuanced perspective on a timeless philosophical question, relevant in today's ever-evolving world.

Send us a Text Message.In this enlightening episode of Philosophy Crossroads, we embark on a deep dive into the fascinating world of moral nonnaturalism. Join us as we unravel the complexities of this compelling ethical theory, renowned for its advocacy of objective moral truths independent of natural properties. We explore the historical roots, theoretical foundations, and key figures like G.E. Moore and John McDowell, who have shaped the landscape of nonnaturalist thought. Engaging with the critiques and challenges facing moral nonnaturalism, we examine its intersections with other philosophical disciplines, its adaptation to contemporary ethical dilemmas, and its significant implications for personal ethics and societal norms. This episode is not just a theoretical journey but an exploration of how moral nonnaturalism influences our daily ethical decisions and the broader societal and global ethical framework. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey through the realm of moral nonnaturalism, where we delve into the quest for understanding objective moral truths in our complex world.

Send us a Text Message.Mr Desh Subba is a Nepal-born author and poet.His book Philosophy of Fearism published through the self-publishing US service Xlibris. It portrays fear as major part of life. According to him life is conducted, guided and controlled by fear. He also argue utility of fear, impact of fear, dephilosophy of philosophy etc.

Send us a Text Message.Explore the rapidly growing field of Green Finance and ESG investing with Hong Kong University Professor Dragon Tang, where he talks about the past, present and future of this field, and how moral and ethics can be applied to it.