Best Brain In A Vat Podcasts (2025)

1
Living The Philosophical Life | Agnes Callard 55:21

4d ago55:21

55:21

In this episode, Brain in a Vat is joined by public philosopher and author Agnes Callard to explore the relevance of philosophy in everyday life. Drawing from her work on Socrates, Agnes makes a case for why philosophical inquiry matters, now more than ever. From the pig farmer analogy to Socratic love, this conversation is a deep dive into how phi…

1
The Israel Palestine Conflict | David Benatar 59:21

12d ago59:21

59:21

Are Jews entitled to their own homeland? Is the Israeli response to the massacre of civilians perpetrated by Hamas on October 7th justified? Should there be a ceasefire? David's Article in Quillette: https://quillette.com/2023/10/21/its-not-the-occupation/ Raja Halwani wrote to us about Jason's exposition of his view at 33:06. Here is Raja's clarif…

1
#206: Data-Driven Supply Chain Transformation with Ruth Beadle of Sanofi 30:32

17d ago30:32

30:32

*Hosted by Stéphanie Moles-Rota* In this compelling episode, I interviewed Ruth Beadle, the Head of Supply Chain at Sanofi, where we talked about her transformative leadership journey across various industries and geographies. Ruth shared pivotal moments that shaped her career, the challenges of leading large-scale ERP and AI-driven initiatives, an…

1
The Ideal State: An AI Debate - Plato vs Nozick 47:59

19d ago47:59

47:59

In this episode of Brain in a Vat, we examine two competing political visions through an AI debate between Plato and Robert Nozick. Plato defends rule by philosopher kings and a unified society, while Nozick argues for individual liberty and a minimal state. Following our previous episode featuring Mill and Kant, we continue investigating major phi…

1
#205: How Unilever’s Ice Cream Division Became the $8.5B “Magnum Company” with Sandeep Desai, CSCO 31:28

24d ago31:28

31:28

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Unilever is turning its iconic ice cream business, home to Magnum and Ben & Jerry’s, into a standalone powerhouse. What does it really take to spin off an €8.5B global business? Sandeep Desai, Chief Supply Chain Officer of Unilever Ice Cream, takes us inside the transformation. From leading 9,000+ employees across 38 fact…

1
Organ Markets | James Stacey Taylor (Rebroadcast) 1:13:57

26d ago1:13:57

1:13:57

Should we be allowed to sell our organs on the open market? Would the poor be exploited under such a system? And does organ donation impose an unfair burden on the relatives of those that need a transplant? Check out FeedSpot's list of 90 best philosophy podcasts, where Brain in a Vat is ranked at 15, here: https://podcast.feedspot.com/philosophy_p…

1
Academic Freedom in Universities | Eric Sampson and Rebecca Tuvel 1:07:23

1M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Eric Sampson and Rebecca Tuvel explore the contested issue of academic freedom. They discuss the tensions that emerge when universities try to balance the promotion of diverse intellectual perspectives with concerns over potential harm to community members, as seen in controversies involving figures like philosopher Peter Singer. Drawing on debates…

1
#204: Tariffs and Global Supply Chains with Brian Nemeth of AlixPartners 29:50

1M ago29:50

29:50

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, I interviewed Brian Nemeth, Managing Director at AlixPartners, where we talked about the ripple effects of tariffs on global supply chains. We dived into real-world case studies, the resurgence of the bullwhip effect, and the strategic decisions supply chain leaders must make under pressure. Brian shared …

1
Children's Rights and Parenting | Connor Kianpour and Ella Coleman 1:02:09

1M ago1:02:09

1:02:09

Connor examines involuntary commitment, substance abuse disorders, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding parenting and children's welfare. Should children be allowed to transition genders? When is the state justified in removing children from harmful environments? And what is the role of non-parental caregivers in a child's life? Join us for this th…

1
Are Conspiracy Theories Right? | Jared Millson and Ella Coleman 58:01

2M ago58:01

58:01

Jared Millson delves into the intriguing world of conspiracy theories, exploring well-known cases like Pizzagate and lesser-known but historically significant events such as the COINTELPRO. The discussion spans the definitions and philosophical debates about what constitutes a conspiracy theory, the criteria for evaluating these theories, and the p…

1
Animal Liberation Now | Peter Singer (Rebroadcast) 1:05:15

2M ago1:05:15

1:05:15

Peter Singer delves into difficult ethical questions regarding animal rights, the morality of factory farming, and difficult human-related ethical dilemmas. Singer discusses his views as a consequentialist, examining the impact of our choices on animal suffering, the ethical considerations around organ donation from anencephalic children, and the b…

1
End Taxes? | Jessica Flanigan 55:05

2M ago55:05

55:05

Jess Flanigan argues that personal income tax is illegitimate. But is the state ever justified in extracting money from its population to pay for public goods? Are property taxes and privatization of state functions better options? And if taxes are illegitimate, are we permitted, or even obligated, to stop paying our taxes? [00:00] Introduction and…

1
The Problem with Democracy | Jason Brennan (Rebroadcast) 1:01:12

2M ago1:01:12

1:01:12

If most voters are misinformed, is democracy legitimate? What sort of voting system should we have in its place? And should some votes count more than others? [00:00] Introduction to the Problems of Democracy [00:17] Brexit: A Case Study in Misinformed Voting [05:33] Voter Behavior: Social Benefits and Signaling [18:29] The Legitimacy of Democratic…

1
#203: Leading Global Operations in the Semiconductor Industry with Thomas Berden of VAT Group 27:59

2M ago27:59

27:59

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Thomas Berden, COO of VAT Group where we discussed VAT’s strategy of staying ahead of the curve, investing in capacities and capabilities, and maintaining a flexible cost model with a 25% temporary workforce. Thomas emphasizes the importance of customer focus, technology innovation, and a decentrali…

1
Mass Shootings | Kurt Blankschaen 58:00

2M ago58:00

58:00

Does our common understanding of mass shootings help us to prevent them? Blankschaen argues that our common beliefs and media narratives around gun ownership, mental illness, and school policies are unhelpful in preventing future mass shootings. Can we even provide an adequate definition of mass shootings? Should we give up the concept of mass shoo…

1
The Problems with Virtue Ethics | Travis Timmerman 58:02

3M ago58:02

58:02

Through comparisons to consequentialism and deontological ethics, Travis dissects the core principles and critiques of virtue ethics. Along the way, we discuss moral dilemmas, the application of virtues, and the real-world implications of ethical theories. Whether you're a student of philosophy or just curious about moral reasoning, this discussion…

1
The End Goal of Wokeness | Nathan Cofnas 1:11:13

3M ago1:11:13

1:11:13

What is the underlying logic of woke ideology? Is it consistent, and can it justify the pursuit of equality of outcome, such as redistributing wealth and land? Cofnas discusses the origins and evolution of wokeism, the moral and empirical premises underlying it, and the political dynamics between conservatives and liberals. Tune in to gain a deeper…

1
Effective Altruism and Making a Difference | Jacob Bauer 57:38

3M ago57:38

57:38

How should we allocate our donations to address global issues effectively? Jacob discusses the principles guiding Effective Altruism, the importance of evidence-based charitable giving, the ethical implications of supporting local versus global causes, and the challenges of predicting long-term impacts. The episode also delves into the significant …

1
Ultimate Meaning | Rivka Weinberg (Rebroadcast) 51:03

3M ago51:03

51:03

Is it possible for us to lead meaningful lives? Is there an ultimate point to our existence? Can we enrich our lives with the pursuit of love, knowledge and friendship? [00:00] Introduction to the Meaninglessness of Life [00:14] Tolstoy's Existential Crisis [01:39] The Appropriateness of Sadness [04:18] Everyday Meaning vs. Ultimate Meaning [06:13]…

1
Affirmative Action and Medical School | Stephen Kershnar 51:12

4M ago51:12

51:12

Join us for a provocative episode on Brain in a Vat as we rejoin the infamous Stephen Kershnar, whose prior discussions have made headlines. This episode delves into affirmative action, demographic considerations in education and employment, and the ethics of statistical predictions informed by race. The discussion debates the legitimacy and conseq…

1
Should Only Queer Actors Play Queer Roles? | Kurt Blankschaen & Travis Timmerman 1:02:05

4M ago1:02:05

1:02:05

Was Kit Conner obligated to reveal his queer sexual orientation to play his role as a queer character on ‘Heartstopper’? Timmerman and Blankschaen argue that straight actors can authentically portray queer characters, addressing issues of character versus performer authenticity, potential harm to marginalized actors, and the broader impact on the i…

1
#202: Prioritizing Safety, Sustainability, and Smart Transformation with Victor Shevtsov of Carlsberg Group 36:24

4M ago36:24

36:24

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Victor Shevtsov, Executive Vice President Supply Chain and a Member of the Executive Committee at The Carlsberg Group. We discussed Carlsberg's significant health and safety achievements, including zero life-changing accidents, a 10% reduction in lost time accidents, and a 15% drop in accident rates…

1
The Moral Circle: Are AI and Animals Included? | Jeff Sebo 1:12:08

4M ago1:12:08

1:12:08

Who should be included in our 'moral circle' when we make our moral decisions? Jeff discusses the ethical responsibilities we might have towards non-human beings, such as Neanderthals, AIs, or even figments of our imagination. The conversation critically examines issues related to animal welfare, the complexities of population ethics, and the poten…

1
Don't Vote | Chris Freiman with Rebecca Tuvel 57:41

4M ago57:41

57:41

Chris Freiman argues that we’re justified in ignoring politics. Freiman, whose book 'Why It's Okay to Ignore Politics' delves into this controversial stance, presents thought experiments and addresses common objections. The conversation also explores effective altruism, the moral implications of individual actions, and the complexities surrounding …

1
#201: Formula to Success - People, Innovation, and Impact with Eduardo Bachiega of Nomad Foods 22:18

4M ago22:18

22:18

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Eduardo Bachiega, the Chief Supply Chain Officer at Nomad Foods. We discussed his journey and the company’s growth. Nomad Foods, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, has integrated brands like Birds Eye, Igloo, and Findus and has grown its revenue from €1 billion to nearly €3 billion. Eduardo …

1
Alix Spiegel on Storytelling | Alix Spiegel 37:19

5M ago37:19

37:19

In this special episode, Alix Spiegel, host and producer of ‘Invisibilia’ and journalist for ‘This American Life’, joins us to talk about storytelling. Alix discusses storytelling techniques, the philosophical and political dimensions of narrative choices, and the emotional journey of confronting climate change. [00:00] Introduction to the Guest: E…

1
Why It's Okay to Eat Meat - Or Is It? | Dan Shahar (Rebroadcast) 53:10

5M ago53:10

53:10

Dan Shahar defends the view that eating meat is permissible, even though meat farming is not. Is this a coherent position? [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [00:48] The Alien Analogy [02:20] Moral Implications and Human Relationships [03:33] Vegetarian Perspective and Ethical Dilemmas [08:01] Super Cow Hypothetical [12:11] Real-World Ethi…

1
Who was Derek Parfit? | David Edmonds (Rebroadcast) 54:45

5M ago54:45

54:45

Parfit altered the landscape of the philosophy of identity. We speak to David Edmonds about his recently released biography on this influential philosopher, and ask: what made Parfit the man he was? [00:00] Introduction to David Edmunds [00:25] David's Personal Connection to Derek Parfit [01:42] Derek Parfit's Early Life and Education [04:17] Derek…

1
The Philosophy of Severance | Travis Timmerman (Rebroadcast) 1:00:59

5M ago1:00:59

1:00:59

Ben Stiller's superb series, Severance, raises fascinating questions about the nature of personal identity. Are we minds or brains? Is it possible for two persons to inhabit the same body? And can a person survive gaps in their existence? [00:00] Introduction to Severance [01:24] Philosophical Questions on Personal Identity [05:59] Real-Life Analog…

1
Anti-Semitism | Mark Oppenheimer (Rebroadcast) 1:04:08

6M ago1:04:08

1:04:08

What do anti-semites and ultra-orthodox Jews have in common? How did the ivy league discriminate against Jews? Is America still a safe haven for Jews? Follow Mark's work on https://markoppenheimer.substack.com/ [00:00] Introduction and Confession [00:17] The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting [03:59] Historical Context of Jewish Persecution [07:15] Un…

1
What Is a Woman? | Alex Byrne (Rebroadcast) 1:01:59

6M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Oxford University Press refused to publish Alex Byrne's book on gender. We discuss whether women are adult human females and whether sex is the same as gender. [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [02:38] Exploring Gender Identity [11:22] Historical Context and Gender Roles [19:00] Biological and Social Perspectives [27:51] Understanding Soc…

1
Sex Work or Prostitution? | Lori Watson (Rebroadcast) 58:53

6M ago58:53

58:53

Is sex work actually work? Is prostitution always a form of exploitation? And show we legalize or decriminalize prostitution? [00:00] Introduction and Opening Remarks [00:14] The Moral and Legal Concerns of Prostitution [04:11] Debating Terminology: Prostitution vs. Sex Work [06:37] Legal Frameworks and Models of Prostitution [11:24] The Unique Har…

1
Is Monogamy Wrong? | Harry Chalmers (Rebroadcast) 57:27

6M ago57:27

57:27

Is the restriction on having additional sexual or romantic partners similar to the restriction on having additional friends? Should you allow your partner to be free to pursue other partners? And are we able to overcome the jealousy associated with non-monogamy? [00:00] Introduction to the Debate on Monogamy [00:11] Thought Experiment: Friendship R…

1
The Privacy Paradox | David Boonin (Rebroadcast) 1:00:35

6M ago1:00:35

1:00:35

Is observing people in a public space from the privacy of your home an infringement of their rights? Can the widespread use of CCTV cameras be justified, or does it violate their privacy? And how do technological developments affect the delicate balance between safety and privacy? [00:00] Introduction [00:18] The Case of Mrs. A [02:06] Privacy and …

1
#200: Building a Supply Chain Career & Season Finale 16:49

7M ago16:49

16:49

What an incredible journey this season has been! 200 Episodes! Over the past 28 episodes of 2024, we’ve had the privilege of hearing from some of the greatest minds in the supply chain and logistics industry. Together, we have discussed some of the major trends, learned from inspiring leaders, and explored practical ways to navigate this ever-chang…

1
Benatar on Bullshit | With Rebecca Tuvel 55:12

7M ago55:12

55:12

Are there different kinds of bullshit? Do bullshitters know they are full of it? What should we do to stem the tide? [00:00] Introduction [00:19] David Benatar's Joke [02:25] Defining Bullshit: Philosophical Perspectives [04:21] Academic Bullshit and Real-World Examples [09:34] The Ethics of Calling Out Bullshit [23:14] The Tragedy of the Bullshit …

1
Unravelling “White Privilege” | Spencer Case 1:00:29

7M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

Can the definition of privilege be nuanced enough to address the broad range of individual experiences and historical contexts? Does recognizing and discussing privilege lead to meaningful social change? Or does talk of privilege oversimplify complex issues? [00:00] Introduction and Welcome [00:14] Exploring the Privilege Walk [04:57] Discussion on…

1
#199: Formula for a Successful Leadership 29:55

7M ago29:55

29:55

*Hosted by Stéphanie Moles-Rota* In this episode, I am joined by Karen-Marie Katholm, Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer and Member of the Executive Committee at AkzoNobel. Karen-Marie shared with me her career journey, emphasizing some of the key inflection points that helped her become the leader she is today, including her transition from pro…

1
Cultural Appropriation | Stephen Kershnar 51:42

7M ago51:42

51:42

Is it permissible for members of one group to appropriate the cultural practices of another? Is there anything wrong with cultural appropriation at all, or are there benefits to cultural appropriation? [00:00] Introduction and Thought Experiment [00:29] Criticism and Cultural Appropriation [02:07] Ownership of Ideas [04:49] Intellectual Property an…

1
Determinism, Free Will, and the Meaning of Life | Stephen Maitzen 59:53

7M ago59:53

59:53

Stephen Maitzen argues that the world is deterministic. But if all of our choices are determined, how should we understand free will, the meaning of life, and regret? Read Maitzen’s Book here: https://www.routledge.com/Determinism-Death-and-Meaning/Maitzen/p/book/9781032134185 [00:00] Introduction to Determinism and Thought Experiment [00:15] Clark…

1
Abortion: An AI Debate - Mill vs Kant 43:08

8M ago43:08

43:08

We explore the complex moral landscape of abortion through the perspectives of two philosophical giants, John Stuart Mill and Immanuel Kant, as simulated by AI. Mill defends abortion from a utilitarian standpoint, emphasizing individual autonomy and the consequences of our actions, while Kant objects to abortion from a deontological approach, focus…

1
Will Machines Rule the World? | Barry Smith 1:00:45

8M ago1:00:45

1:00:45

Does Searle’s Chinese Room show that AI is not intelligent or creative? Does AI learn the way humans do? And could AI ever be capable of truly creative thought? [00:00] Introduction to the Chinese Room Argument [03:55] The Evolution of Human Language [05:58] ChatGPT's Capabilities and Limitations [12:09] Human Understanding vs. AI Responses [15:33]…

1
Reimagining Democracy as Lottocracy | Alexander Guerrero (With Travis Timmerman) 1:05:04

8M ago1:05:04

1:05:04

'Lottocracy' is a system where political representation is determined randomly. Is this a better system than democracy? We discuss the shortcomings of current electoral democracies, including the influence of media and special interests, and examine innovative models like deliberative democracy and specialized legislative structures. How should we …

1
Navigating Kinky Sex: Ethics, Safety, and Risk | Georgi Gardiner 1:02:41

8M ago1:02:41

1:02:41

Georgi Gardiner discusses the intricate philosophy of safe sex, kink, and BDSM. She delves into the complexities of power dynamics, moral judgments, and ethical implications in kinky sex. How should we think about risk perception and its relation to STIs, and the value of sexual liberation? [00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:10] A Curious Real Li…

1
Comedy, Satire, and Laughing at the Uncomfortable | John Vlismas 59:10

9M ago59:10

59:10

Dive into the intersection of comedy and philosophy with South African comedian John Vlismas. We explore the power of humor as a political tool, its role in confronting societal issues, and the fine line between making people laugh and challenging their deeply held assumptions. Vlismas shares his insights on the evolving landscape of comedy, the et…

1
#198: Danone and the 4Cs of Supply Chain Excellence 43:38

9M ago43:38

43:38

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, I interviewed Vikram Agarwal, Danone's Chief Operations Officer. Vikram provided an overview of Danone's global supply chain, which spans 55 countries and 48,000 employees and integrates economic growth with social responsibility. As well as shared his career journey and the strategic role of supply chain…

1
The Value of Bad Movies | Matt Strohl (with Travis Timmerman) 1:05:04

9M ago1:05:04

1:05:04

Join hosts Mark Opennheimer and Travis Timmerman as they dive into the world of bad movies with Matt Strohl, author of 'Why It's Okay to Love Bad Movies.' The episode explores 'bad' films like 'Dancing It's On,' the creative triumphs of low-budget movies, and the merits of B-movies. The conversation then shifts to the controversial film 'Cannibal H…

1
#197: Purpose of Essity, End-to-end, and Holistic Leadership 43:51

9M ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, I interviewed Donato Giorgio, President of Global Supply Chain for Essity, where we discussed the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and holistic leadership. Donato shared his journey in supply chain, highlighting some of the inflection points, like starting at Procter & Gamble and the joining the SCA Group and subseque…

1
Refugees and Border Control | Bradley Hillier-Smith 1:10:33

9M ago1:10:33

1:10:33

Bradley Hillier-Smith argues that states have a duty not to harm refugees, and a duty to improve the lives of refugees. He argues that wealthier nations, therefore, have an obligation to accept and support at least some refugees. But what is the impact of refugee policies on citizens? And just how far do our obligations go toward helping refugees? …

1
#196: Smarter Collaboration: A New Approach to Breaking Down Barriers and Transforming Work 39:38

9M ago39:38

39:38

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, I interviewed Dr. Heidi K. Gardner, author of “Smarter Collaboration,” where we discussed the concepts in her book. We explored the topics of collaboration in teams, breaking down silos, and their importance in hiring and M&A. We also delved into the challenges that hinder collaboration, ways to address t…

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