Is Tarot a Tool for Thought? | Georgi Gardiner

Brain in a Vat

In this episode of Brain in a Vat, philosopher Georgie Gardner returns to explore the epistemic value of tarot: its capacity to shape self-understanding, spark creative reflection, and influence major life decisions.

Drawing on personal experience and philosophical analysis, Georgie examines how tarot can serve as a mirror for introspection while also raising concerns about confirmation bias and self-deception. The discussion also considers the history and diversity of tarot practices, and compares tarot with artificial intelligence as a tool for navigating uncertainty and meaning.

Whether you are a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers a thoughtful examination of how we seek knowledge and what counts as a good reason to believe.

[00:00] Introduction and Guest Welcome

[00:11] Georgie's Personal Journey with Tarot

[00:51] The Impact of Tarot on Decision Making

[11:50] The Epistemic Value of Tarot

[28:22] Potential Criticisms of Tarot

[31:28] The Five Waves of Tarot History

[38:29] Confirmation Bias and Flipping the Reading

[42:25] Comparing Tarot and AI in Epistemology

[44:09] The Role of Tarot in Education and Research

[59:01] Concluding Thoughts