All Courses

Instructor(s): Subrena Smith

Categories: Life & The Living, Metaphysics & Language, Society & Culture

The history and philosophy of human nature

Human nature continues to fascinate sociologists and philosophers alike. It seemingly tells us who we truly are, and highlights the limits of human possibility. But whilst many view human nature as governed by evolution, this may no longer be accurate. Jo

Start Time: 6th February 2024

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Untangling the mysteries of space and time

philosophy, science

Julian Barbour

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Julian Barbour

Categories: The Universe & Reality, Knowledge, Science & Method

Untangling the mysteries of space and time

Untangling the mysteries of space and time The nature of space and time has puzzled thinkers for centuries and never more so than now. The big questions continue to grip us; is time an illusion? How is space structured? In this academy, acclaimed physicis

Start Time: 30th November 2023

The Metaphysics of Naturalism

philosophy

Fiona Ellis

• Coming Soon

Instructor(s): Fiona Ellis

Categories: Ethics & Religion, Metaphysics & Language, Knowledge, Science & Method

The Metaphysics of Naturalism

The first course introduces the idea of an expansive naturalism which could accommodate God. The position has something in common with Iris Murdoch’s ‘true naturalism’ but it is more radical than this and both positions are contentious.

Unlocking the Developing World

politics

Stefan Dercon

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Stefan Dercon

Categories: The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology, Politics & Identity

Unlocking the Developing World

Oxford Economist and Director of the Centre for the Study of African Economies Stefan Dercon puts forward his new formula that allows the poorest countries to take these first steps towards economic prosperity and better lives for their populations: the d

Start Time: 11th July 2023

A New World Order

politics

Nigel Inkster

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Nigel Inkster

Categories: The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology

A New World Order

The war in Ukraine poses a major challenge to our global world order, and represents a battle for ideological supremacy. Where has this growing instability come from? And what has made it possible?

Start Time: 10th May 2023

The Power of the Unconscious Mind

philosophy, science

Sam Coleman

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Sam Coleman

Categories: Mind & Reason, Psychology & The Brain

The Power of the Unconscious Mind

Our unconscious mind is something we do not notice, but which is always with us. Could it be that who we are, how we view the world, and how we act are all governed by a force over which we have no control?

Physics and the Meaning of Life

philosophy, science

Sabine Hossenfelder

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Sabine Hossenfelder

Categories: The Universe & Reality, Knowledge, Science & Method

Physics and the Meaning of Life

Many have argued that science cannot answer the real mysteries of the universe. Yet this might not be the case. Join Sabine Hossenfelder, who asserts that through physics, we can make progress on the issues which have gripped philosophers for decades.

A New Approach To Race

Tommy Curry

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Tommy Curry

Categories:

A New Approach To Race

Critical Race Theory has taken centre stage in recent debates surrounding racism. However, critics argues that current incarnations offer ineffective solutions to the issue. Join Tommy Curry, who asserts a new strategy to approaching structural racism.

The Philosophy of Psychedelics

Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes

Categories:

The Philosophy of Psychedelics

It's time to take psychedelics, and the experiences they produce, seriously. They have historical, ethical, aesthetic and metaphysical significance. Join Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes to explore the philosophy of psychedelics.

Why We Misunderstand Mental Health

science

James Davies

• Available Now

Instructor(s): James Davies

Categories: Technology & Environment , Psychology & The Brain

Why We Misunderstand Mental Health

We are misunderstanding mental illness. The medical solution is not working, and rates of mental illness continue to soar. So what is the alternative? Join Dr James Davies, who argues that mental health issues have social causes, not biological ones.

The Evidence and the Solution to Culture Wars

politics

Eric Kaufmann

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Eric Kaufmann

Categories: The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology

The Evidence and the Solution to Culture Wars

Cancel culture has become a central talking point in modern life, causing a growing divide within friendships, families, and societies. Join Eric Kaufmann, who explores the options for escaping our current divisions.

Unwrapping Beauty

arts

Bence Nanay

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Bence Nanay

Categories: Art & Aesthetics

Unwrapping Beauty

What does it mean to experience beauty? Bence Nanay argues that our perception of beauty is purely a function of our cultural background and offers a radical new direction for the field of aesthetic appreciation.

To See The One That Sees You

arts

Janne Teller

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Janne Teller

Categories: Narrative & Reality, Society & Culture

To See The One That Sees You

Who are we? What defines our identity? In this course, Janne Teller rejects the current fashionable definition of identity based on external markers, such as nationality, religion, job and sexuality. Instead, she proposes a new perspective on identity.

The Power of the Brain

philosophy, science

Lisa Feldman Barrett

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Lisa Feldman Barrett

Categories: Mind & Reason, Psychology & The Brain

The Power of the Brain

For a long time, the brain served as an object of mystery. However, over recent years, we have begun to understand more about this fascinating organ. Join Prof. Lisa Feldman Barrett to uncover the secrets of the brain.

Engineering Our Humanity

arts, philosophy, science, politics

Melanie Challenger

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Melanie Challenger

Categories: Ethics & Religion, Technology & Environment , The World & The Future, Knowledge, Science & Method, Society & Culture, Psychology & The Brain

Engineering Our Humanity

For the first time, we have technologies that allow us to engineer what it is to be human. But will this make dreams of longer lives, endless health and even immortality come true? Or are we entering dystopia?

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The Future of Liberalism

politics

Mark Littlewood

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Mark Littlewood

Categories: Ideas & Ideology

The Future of Liberalism

Why has liberalism become a dirty word in recent years? Join Mark Littlewood as he sets out his vision for the moral and economic future of liberalism, and outlines why we need it now more than ever.

Stoicism as Practical Philosophy

arts, philosophy

Massimo Pigliucci

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Massimo Pigliucci

Categories: Ethics & Religion, Society & Culture

Stoicism as Practical Philosophy

Stoicism is an ancient Greco-Roman philosophy that has been repurposed for the needs of the 21st century. CUNY philosopher Massimo Pigliucci, author of How to Be a Stoic, walks us through the basic theory and some practical applications.

What Men Really Want

arts, politics, science

Nina Power

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Nina Power

Categories: Technology & Environment , The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology, Politics & Identity, Society & Culture, Psychology & The Brain

What Men Really Want

Who are 'men'? What do they want? How did we get to this point of fear and mistrust? And where can we go next?

AI: Bias, Trust, and Doing Good

science, politics

Joanna Bryson

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Joanna Bryson

Categories: Technology & Environment , The World & The Future

AI: Bias, Trust, and Doing Good

AI is one of the new frontiers defining the 21st century. We know it's game changing. But what we don't know is if those changes will make our dreams or nightmares come true?

China's Next Moves

arts, politics

Rana Mitter

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Rana Mitter

Categories: The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology, Society & Culture

China's Next Moves

What are China's political origins? What has shaped their ideology most? Where is China headed today? Join Rana Mitter as he charts a riveting course through Confucianism, WW2, Maoist doctrine and the modern CCP.

Life Lessons from David Hume

philosophy

Julian Baggini

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Julian Baggini

Categories: Mind & Reason, Ethics & Religion, Knowledge, Science & Method

Life Lessons from David Hume

How should we think? How should we live? How ought we to treat others? From Hume’s philosophy, to his life's history, to his observations on human behaviour; Julian Baggini gathers together life lessons from one of the most important names in philosophy.

Breathing Life into the Laws of Physics

philosophy, science

Sara Walker

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Sara Walker

Categories: The Universe & Reality, Life & The Living, Knowledge, Science & Method

Breathing Life into the Laws of Physics

Fundamental physics has been a great success story. Yet the central phenomenon of our existence - life itself - has been left out. Join theoretical physicist and astrobiologist, Sara Walker.

Jared Diamond on Personal and World Crises

politics, science

Jared Diamond

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Jared Diamond

Categories: Technology & Environment , The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology, Psychology & The Brain

Jared Diamond on Personal and World Crises

What is a crisis? How have countries dealt with them previously, and how should they deal with them? From personal crises to national and global ones, Jared Diamond explores the similarities in crisis management between people and nations.

Exploring Intelligence

science, philosophy

Susan Schneider

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Susan Schneider

Categories: Mind & Reason, Life & The Living, Technology & Environment , Psychology & The Brain

Exploring Intelligence

What is intelligence? Join Susan Schneider, one of the world’s most prestigious philosophers of mind, as she disentangles our confusions in thinking through the smarts of conscious and non-conscious systems.

How to Lose a Country and How to Save It

arts, philosophy, politics

Ece Temelkuran

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Ece Temelkuran

Categories: Ethics & Religion, The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology, Society & Culture

How to Lose a Country and How to Save It

Award-winning Turkish author and journalist Ece Temelkuran delivers a stark warning about the insidiousness of nationalism, and proposes a solution through a new conception of humanity and morality.

Massive Gravity

science

Claudia de Rham

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Claudia de Rham

Categories: The Universe & Reality

Massive Gravity

What is a graviton, and how might giving it mass fix age-old problems in physics? Award-winning theoretical physicist Claudia de Rham outlines her new theory of gravity.

Pure Awareness and the Ethics of Machine Learning

philosophy, science

Thomas Metzinger

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Thomas Metzinger

Categories: Mind & Reason, Ethics & Religion, Life & The Living, Technology & Environment , Knowledge, Science & Method, Psychology & The Brain

Pure Awareness and the Ethics of Machine Learning

Artificial consciousness could soon emerge - and with it, a potential for limitless artificial suffering. Using meditation as his starting point, Theoretical Philosopher Thomas Metzinger explains why we should care about computer suffering.

Thinking Like a Scientist

philosophy

Jim Baggott

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Jim Baggott

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

Thinking Like a Scientist

When sensationalism is prioritised over truth, how can we distinguish fact from speculation? Jim Baggott examines the rise of pseudoscience, and talks through the flawed methods to blame.

A Passion for Ignorance

philosophy

Renata Salecl

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Renata Salecl

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

A Passion for Ignorance

How much do we want to know when it comes to our bodies? Does knowledge have a different value in sickness than in health? Psychoanalyst and author of A Passion for Ignorance, Renata Salecl, argues that sometimes the wisest choice is to remain ignorant.

Our Place in the Universe

science

George Ellis

• Available Now

Instructor(s): George Ellis

Categories: The Universe & Reality

Our Place in the Universe

Does physics allow free will? Templeton Prize-winning cosmologist George Ellis presents his account of what chance, necessity and purpose in the universe mean for agency.

Medicine Out of Its Depth

philosophy, science

Janet Radcliffe-Richards

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Janet Radcliffe-Richards

Categories: Ethics & Religion, Life & The Living, Psychology & The Brain

Medicine Out of Its Depth

Are technologies advances leaving traditional medical ethics behind? Oxford Professor of Practical Philosophy Janet Radcliffe-Richards explores new ways forward for modern bioethics.

Philosophy in motion

arts

Noël Carroll

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Noël Carroll

Categories: Art & Aesthetics

Philosophy in motion

From It's a Wonderful Life to the Matrix, films have often been used to present philosophical ideas. Leading figure in the Philosophy of Art and specialist in the moving image Noël Carroll looks at cinema to ask what it means to truly 'philosophise'.

Values as our New Religion

arts, philosophy, politics

Linda Woodhead

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Linda Woodhead

Categories: Ethics & Religion, Ideas & Ideology, Society & Culture

Values as our New Religion

In Britain and the US, more and more people identify as having no religion. Yet having strong values is seen as more important than ever. Professor of Religion and Society Linda Woodhead discusses and critiques the liberal, moral and religious landscape.

Truth, Post-Truth and Technology

philosophy

Ella McPherson

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Ella McPherson

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

Truth, Post-Truth and Technology

Ella McPherson, Co-Director of the Centre of Governances and Human Rights, looks at how technologies are changing the work of human rights fact-finders.

Speculative Realism

philosophy

Graham Harman

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Graham Harman

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

Speculative Realism

Speculative Realism has rapidly gone from a loose idea to a discipline-spanning, bonafide philosophical movement. But what is it? Join Distinguished Professor of Philosophy Graham Harman as he delves into the new and exciting field of SR.

The Epistemology of Fake News

philosophy

Anandi Hattiangadi

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Anandi Hattiangadi

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

The Epistemology of Fake News

Fake news and misinformation are making it difficult to discern the truth. But might it be actually impossible? Professor of Philosophy Anandi Hattiangadi discusses how misinformation is damaging democracies and outlines a way to achieve real knowledge.

The Case for Transhumanism

philosophy

Steve Fuller

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Steve Fuller

Categories: Mind & Reason

The Case for Transhumanism

Transhumanism is the idea that our species can enhance itself using technology – from immoratlity to uploading our minds into machines. Is this humanity’s next step? Warwick sociologist Steve Fuller lays out his vision for the future.

Facts in a Post-Truth Era

arts

Åsa Wikforss

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Åsa Wikforss

Categories: Narrative & Reality

Facts in a Post-Truth Era

Why do we sometimes believe what we want to believe, even when it goes against the evidence? Theoretical philosopher at Stockholm University Åsa Wikforss explores psychology, human biases, disinformation, trust and 'alternative facts' to outline her view.

How DNA Makes Us Who We Are

science

Robert Plomin

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Robert Plomin

Categories: Life & The Living

How DNA Makes Us Who We Are

What made you, you? What made your personality, mental health and cognitive abilities? Robert Plomin, world-leading behavioural geneticist, concludes that inherited DNA differences are the major systematic force that shapes us as individuals.

Moments of Truth

philosophy

Sophie Grace Chappell

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Sophie Grace Chappell

Categories: Ethics & Religion

Moments of Truth

What are epiphanies, and how do they come into our daily lives? Join Professor of Philosophy at the Open University and the UK's only trans philosophy professor, Sophie-Grace Chappell as she takes us on an epiphanic journey.

The Case for Idealism

philosophy

Bernardo Kastrup

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Bernardo Kastrup

Categories: Mind & Reason

The Case for Idealism

The idea that reality exists outside and independently of mind seems so obvious as to be indisputable. But is it possible we've all got it completely wrong? Join philosopher and scientist Bernardo Kastrup as he argues that reality is fundamentally mental.

The Moral Brain

science

Patricia Churchland

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Patricia Churchland

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

The Moral Brain

What are the origins of the morals we live by? Pioneering neurophilosopher Patricia Churchland dismisses reason and religion, and traces the roots of conscience to our evolved biology.

Life as Process

philosophy

John Dupré

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John Dupré

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

Life as Process

We assume life and the world around us is made up of objects. What could be gained understanding life as processes instead?

Simone de Beauvoir Jean Paul Sartre in Beijing 1955 1

The Philosophy and Feminism of Simone de Beauvoir

philosophy

Kate Kirkpatrick

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Kate Kirkpatrick

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

The Philosophy and Feminism of Simone de Beauvoir

Has Beauvoir's philosophy been overlooked? KCL philosopher and author of Becoming Beauvoir, Kate Kirkpatrick, draws on unpublished writings to interrogate her ground-breaking philosophy.

The Non-Existence of the Real World

philosophy

Jan Westerhoff

• Coming Soon

Instructor(s): Jan Westerhoff

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

The Non-Existence of the Real World

Does the external world really exist? Professor Jan Westerhoff of Oxford University combines the analytic methods of contemporary Western philosophy with a deep knowledge of Eastern thought to propose that there is no external world.

The Neuroscience of Sex

science

Daphna Joel

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Daphna Joel

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

The Neuroscience of Sex

Are male and female brains really so different? Senior Professor of Psychobiology at Tel Aviv University Daphna Joel examines the latest research into the neurological differences between men and women.

The Philosophy of Quantum Theory

science

Tim Maudlin

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Tim Maudlin

Categories: The Universe & Reality

The Philosophy of Quantum Theory

How can we make sense of quantum mechanics? NYU philosopher of science and author of The Metaphysics of Physics puts forward his view of the philosophical insights hidden in the theory.

Intelligence vs Creativity

science

Marta Halina

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Marta Halina

Categories: Technology & Environment

Intelligence vs Creativity

What is creativity? Can machines replicate it? Cambridge philosopher and psychologist Marta Halina uses recent advances in psychology, neuroscience and artificial intelligence to paint a new picture of the creative mind.

Strategy in the 21st Century

politics

Lawrence Freedman

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Lawrence Freedman

Categories: Ideas & Ideology

Strategy in the 21st Century

How has strategy changed through the ages? What global strategies are being employed today? Eminent Professor of War Studies at KCL and author of The Future of War, Lawrence Freedman, explores how we can navigate the new cyber and guerrilla warfare.

The Future of Being Human

science

Anders Sandberg

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Anders Sandberg

Categories: Life & The Living

The Future of Being Human

Should we upgrade our bodies and minds? Fellow at Oxford’s Future of Humanity Institute, Anders Sandberg, investigates the road we must take to reach the mind-boggling possibilities of a transhuman future.

The Case Against Reality

philosophy

Donald Hoffman

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Donald Hoffman

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

The Case Against Reality

Is reality how it appears? Or not as it seems? Professor of Cognitive Science and author of The Case Against Reality, Donald Hoffman, puts forward the radical suggestion that our perceptions fail to map onto reality.

Being Free in the Digital Age

arts

James Williams

• Available Now

Instructor(s): James Williams

Categories: Society & Culture

Being Free in the Digital Age

How can we lead meaningful lives amidst relentless and powerful forms of digital distraction? Ex-Google strategist turned Oxford ethicist James Williams invites us to rethink technology and take back control.

Rethinking Feminism, Sex and Violence

politics

Finn Mackay

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Finn Mackay

Categories: The World & The Future

Rethinking Feminism, Sex and Violence

What goals should modern feminists adopt? “World-changing woman” (Guardian) and founder of the London Feminist Network Dr Finn Mackay outlines a bold new manifesto.

A Brief Guide to Everything

science

John Ellis

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John Ellis

Categories: The Universe & Reality

A Brief Guide to Everything

The microscopic quantum world of fermions and bosons is a far cry from the grand expansion of the universe, yet they are connected. CERN’s John Ellis offers an account of what physicists do and don’t know.

Race, Gender and Invisibility: Why Intersectionality Matters

politics

Kimberlé Crenshaw

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Kimberlé Crenshaw

Categories: Politics & Identity

Race, Gender and Invisibility: Why Intersectionality Matters

How do attitudes to race and gender overlap to entrench injustice? Pioneer of intersectionality Kimberlé Crenshaw shows us a way of bringing hidden and neglected forms of discrimination to light to build a fairer society.

The History of Sex

politics

Véronique Mottier

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Véronique Mottier

Categories: Politics & Identity

The History of Sex

What is sexuality and how does it reflect power relations within society? Award-winning Cambridge sociologist Véronique Mottier provides a provocative cultural history.

Nine Myths About Schizophrenia

science

Richard Bentall

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Richard Bentall

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

Nine Myths About Schizophrenia

Clinical Psychologist Richard Bentall challenges nine myths of schizophrenia accepted by mental health professionals and proposes a more humane, scientific approach to care.

Dark Matter of the Mind

philosophy

Daniel Everett

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Daniel Everett

Categories: Mind & Reason

Dark Matter of the Mind

Does the mind arise from the brain? Is the self a fantasy? American anthroplogist and linguist Daniel Everett interrogates our assumptions and questions if the self is made from more than just matter.

The Science of Psychedelics

politics

David Nutt

• Available Now

Instructor(s): David Nutt

Categories: Politics & Identity

The Science of Psychedelics

What impact do psychedelic drugs have on the brain? What does research show about their potential for use? Psychiatrist David Nutt examines the evidence behind some common misconceptions.

Biology Beyond Genes

science

Denis Noble

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Denis Noble

Categories: Life & The Living

Biology Beyond Genes

Is the selfish gene metaphor radically misguided? Should we give up the idea that the gene is the foundation of life? Oxford biologist Denis Noble maps out the future for biology beyond the genome.

Hallucinations

science

Richard Bentall

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Richard Bentall

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

Hallucinations

Are the voices in our heads more than just mental disorders? Clinical psychologist Richard Bentall uncovers the origin of hallucinations and argues they have been radically misguided.

The Future of Money

politics

Nigel Dodd

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Nigel Dodd

Categories: The World & The Future

The Future of Money

Money is the fantasy that makes the world go round. Where did it come from and what is its future? From the Bank of England to Bitcoin and the Bristol Pound, LSE sociologist Nigel Dodd explores.

What Philosophy Can Do

philosophy

Amie Thomasson

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Amie Thomasson

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

What Philosophy Can Do

Can philosophy give us answers? Author of Fiction and Metaphysics and Ontology Made Easy Amie Thomasson tackles philosophy's grandest aspiration and argues that, rather than discovering truths, its real value is its power to radically transform how we thi

Predicting Ourselves

science

Andy Clark

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Andy Clark

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

Predicting Ourselves

How do we think, dream and feel? Philosophy Andy Clark examines the ‘predictive brain’ approach – touted as a unifying theory for neuroscience – and explores its dramatic implications for science, psychiatry and society.

The History of Privatization

politics

Guy Standing

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Guy Standing

Categories: The World & The Future

The History of Privatization

From forests to city squares, parks to libraries, our common spaces are under attack. Economist Guy Standing traces the history of creeping privatization of the natural and social resources in the UK, and makes a passionate case for reform.

Atheism for the 21st Century

philosophy

Michael Ruse

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Michael Ruse

Categories: Ethics & Religion

Atheism for the 21st Century

Must atheism be trimphalist and aggressive? Philosopher and author of Science, Evolution and Religion Michael Ruse takes the New Atheists to task and argues for a richer, more respectful and more morally reflective tradition of non-belief.

Neuroscience and Out of Body Experiences

science

Susan Blackmore

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Susan Blackmore

Categories: Psychology & The Brain

Neuroscience and Out of Body Experiences

What can neuroscience tell us about out of body experiences? Psychologist Susan Blackmore investigates the new science of OBEs and finds unexpected insights into the self and consciousness.

Why The World Looks The Same In Any Language

philosophy

John McWhorter

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John McWhorter

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

Why The World Looks The Same In Any Language

Does the language we speak shape the way we think? John McWhorter explores the 'language hoax', claiming that despite magnificent variation, the world looks the same in any language.

How Stories Seduce Us

arts

Stanley Fish

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Stanley Fish

Categories: Narrative & Reality

How Stories Seduce Us

Arguments are woven throughout our public and private lives. What determines which win the day? Renowned literary and legal theorist Stanley Fish leads us through literature, politics and the domestic to reveal the power - and inevitability - of rhetoric.

Heidegger Meets Van Gogh Simon Glendinning

Heidegger Meets Van Gogh: Art, Freedom and Technology

arts

Simon Glendinning

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Simon Glendinning

Categories: Society & Culture

Heidegger Meets Van Gogh: Art, Freedom and Technology

Have we become enslaved to technology? Is our fear of losing control our greatest danger? Director of the Forum for European Philosophy Simon Glendinning explores Heidegger, art and freedom.

Knowledge and Rationality

philosophy

Corine Besson

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Corine Besson

Categories: Mind & Reason

Knowledge and Rationality

Is our knowledge of the world essentially rational? What does it mean to be burdened with the gift of rationality? Philosopher Corine Besson considers the nature of humanity's defining trait.

Narratives of Empire

politics

Kwasi Kwarteng

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Kwasi Kwarteng

Categories: The World & The Future

Narratives of Empire

What are the forces which drive empires? Historian and politician Kwasi Kwarteng examines imperial projects through history arguing that narratives of dominance have played a crucial role.

Evidence and Ideology

politics

Nancy Cartwright

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Nancy Cartwright

Categories: Ideas & Ideology

Evidence and Ideology

From drug laws to terror threats, we want political decisions to reflect the facts. But is objective evidence impossible and the facts ours to interpret? Philosopher Nancy Cartwright investigates.

The Future of Belief

philosophy

John Cottingham

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John Cottingham

Categories: Ethics & Religion

The Future of Belief

Has our scientific age outgrown religion? Is faith still an essential component of human existence? Philosopher and theologian John Cottingham argues for the importance of religion in the modern world.

Realism in Perspective

philosophy

Michela Massimi

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Michela Massimi

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

Realism in Perspective

Can science and knowledge be true when they arise from a human vantage point? Philosopher of Science Michela Massimi brings together realism and perspectivism to forge a new kind of realism on science.

Unveiling Reality

philosophy

Bryan Roberts

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Bryan Roberts

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

Unveiling Reality

Are there mysteries that science cannot explain? Do we still need philosophy in order to understand the universe? Philosopher of physics Bryan Roberts explores the limits of our greatest source of knowledge.

Why The World Exists

science

John Ellis

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John Ellis

Categories: The Universe & Reality

Why The World Exists

Where did the universe come from? What don’t we understand about its future? From dark energy to cosmic inflation, theoretical physicist John Ellis gives a contemporary account of how it all began.

Harmony and Balance

science

Frank Wilczek

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Frank Wilczek

Categories: The Universe & Reality

Harmony and Balance

From Dark Energy to Quantum Gravity, the cosmos remains mysterious. How should we approach the puzzles that remain? Nobel Laureate Frank Wilczek argues that, in science, beauty will lead us to truth.

The Universe As We Find It

science

John Heil

• Available Now

Instructor(s): John Heil

Categories: The Universe & Reality

The Universe As We Find It

Didn’t science kill philosophy? Can metaphysics uncover the way the world is? Philosopher John Heil revives metaphysics and confronts the big questions of substance, causation and consciousness.

Transformative Technologies and the Future of Punishment

politics

Rebecca Roache

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Rebecca Roache

Categories: Ideas & Ideology

Transformative Technologies and the Future of Punishment

From mind uploading to moral enhancement, future technologies will offer radical new possibilities for punishment. How should these new tools be used? Philosopher Rebecca Roache explores the future of justice.

The Sex Work Fantasy

politics

Julie Bindel

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Julie Bindel

Categories: Politics & Identity

The Sex Work Fantasy

Is sex-work a job like any other? What lies behind the image of the ‘happy hooker’? Radical feminist activist and journalist Julie Bindel challenges an emerging neoliberal story.

Can You Be Moral in a Corrupt World?

politics

Janne Teller

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Janne Teller

Categories: The World & The Future

Can You Be Moral in a Corrupt World?

Have globalisation and online anonymity broken down moral order? What should guide our actions in the 21st Century? Author of Nothing and former UN conflict resolution expert Janne Teller explores.

The World in Eleven Dimensions

science

Michael Duff

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Michael Duff

Categories: The Universe & Reality

The World in Eleven Dimensions

General relativity and quantum mechanics are the most successful theories in science. But at least one is wrong. Imperial's Michael Duff outlines why M-theory is our only candidate for an ultimate theory.

Why The World Does Not Exist

philosophy

Markus Gabriel

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Markus Gabriel

Categories: Metaphysics & Language

Why The World Does Not Exist

Can reality be described by a single theory? Does our failure to find a theory of everything expose the limits of knowledge, or might the world not exist at all? Philosopher Markus Gabriel explores.

How To Be A 'Promiscuous Realist'

philosophy

James Ladyman

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Instructor(s): James Ladyman

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

How To Be A 'Promiscuous Realist'

We take it for granted that the quantum fields and particles exist. Metaphysician James Ladyman provides reasons to be skeptical about scientific knowledge. Is the evidence too strong to be denied?

Why Diversity Should Be Limitless

politics

Chandran Kukathas

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Chandran Kukathas

Categories: The World & The Future

Why Diversity Should Be Limitless

How should a free society accommodate cultural diversity? Should we tolerate the intolerable? Radical LSE political theorist Chandran Kukathas explores the tension at the heart of modern liberal society.

The Neuroscience of Love

arts

Berit Brogaard

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Berit Brogaard

Categories: Society & Culture

The Neuroscience of Love

Can love be rational? Are we ever in control? American philosopher of mind Berit Brogaard outlines her new theory of love and uncovers the simple truths about the most complex emotion.

Artificial Intelligence and the Last Man: Kenneth Cukier

The Past and the Future of Artificial Intelligence

science

Kenneth Cukier

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Kenneth Cukier

Categories: Technology & Environment

The Past and the Future of Artificial Intelligence

Is AI humanity's savior, or do the threats outweigh its benefits? Best-selling author and Data Editor of The Economist Kenneth Cukier uncovers how to be prepared for the next phase of human evolution.

New Adventures in Spacetime

science

Eleanor Knox

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Instructor(s): Eleanor Knox

Categories: The Universe & Reality

New Adventures in Spacetime

We live in the moment. Or so it might seem. King’s College philosopher of physics Dr Eleanor Knox reveals how Einstein’s work has radical implications for past, present and future.

Physics: What We Still Don't Know

science

David Tong

• Available Now

Instructor(s): David Tong

Categories: The Universe & Reality

Physics: What We Still Don't Know

What’s left to discover at the deepest levels of reality? Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge David Tong gives his personal take on what we still don’t know.

The Infinite Quest

science

Peter Cameron

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Peter Cameron

Categories: The Universe & Reality

The Infinite Quest

From Zeno to Gödel, philosophers and mathematicians have grappled with the infinite. Prize-winning mathematician Professor Peter Cameron proposes that infinity itself may be an illusion.

The Future of Capitalism

politics

Anatole Kaletsky

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Instructor(s): Anatole Kaletsky

Categories: The World & The Future

The Future of Capitalism

Many thought the financial crash was a final blow to capitalism. Why does it still reign supreme? Chair of the Institute for New Economic Thinking Anatole Kaletsky outlines the shape of things to come

Looking for The Meaning of Life

philosophy

Steve Fuller

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Steve Fuller

Categories: Ethics & Religion

Looking for The Meaning of Life

Does it make sense to ask for a meaning to life, and if so what might it be? Philosopher and Auguste Comte Professor at Warwick, Steve Fuller approaches the ultimate Why?

Science vs. Religion

philosophy

Mark Vernon

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Mark Vernon

Categories: Knowledge, Science & Method

Science vs. Religion

What’s at the heart of the conflict between science and religion? Can it be solved? Philosopher and author Mark Vernon answers one of modernity’s most complex problems.

The Physics of the Possible and the Impossible: Constructor Theory

science

Chiara Marletto

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Chiara Marletto

Categories: The Universe & Reality

The Physics of the Possible and the Impossible: Constructor Theory

Is information fundamental to reality? Did the universe emerge from a bundle of bits? Oxford constructor theorist Chiara Marletto outlines the new theory which seeks to explain life, the universe and everything in it.

Are Animals Moral Agents?

science

Mark Rowlands

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Mark Rowlands

Categories: Technology & Environment

Are Animals Moral Agents?

Do we radically misclassify animals? University of Miami Professor of Philosophy Mark Rowlands challenges the boundaries between humankind and animals as minds and moral agents alike.

Fear and Trembling in the 21st Century

philosophy

Clare Carlisle

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Clare Carlisle

Categories: Ethics & Religion

Fear and Trembling in the 21st Century

From Paris to Palestine, the perils of undying faith still hold the world hostage. When should we abandon our beliefs? KCL philosopher Clare Carlisle reinterprets Kierkegaard's Fear and Trembling.

Life, Meaning and Morality: Christopher Hamilton

Nietzsche, God and the Search for Meaning

philosophy

Christopher Hamilton

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Christopher Hamilton

Categories: Ethics & Religion

Nietzsche, God and the Search for Meaning

If 'God is dead', what place does meaning and morality have in our lives? KCL philosopher and author of Living Philosophy Christopher Hamilton examines the perplexities of experience.

Beyond Beyoncé Feminism

politics

Beatrix Campbell

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Beatrix Campbell

Categories: The World & The Future

Beyond Beyoncé Feminism

Has neoliberalism destroyed gender equality? Advocate, author and broadcaster Beatrix Campbell examines the emergence of a new model of patriarchy and proposes solutions.

The History of Fear

arts

Frank Furedi

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Frank Furedi

Categories: Society & Culture

The History of Fear

We are less familiar with pain and suffering than our ancestors, yet new forms of fear play an ever-expanding role in 21st century life. Sociologist Frank Furedi asks why.

Heaven in Disorder

politics

Slavoj Žižek

• Coming Soon

Instructor(s): Slavoj Žižek

Categories: The World & The Future, Ideas & Ideology

Heaven in Disorder

We are in a state of chaos; living in an age marred by economic inequality, international tensions and a climate crisis. However, whilst Mao Zedong famously proclaimed “There is great disorder under heaven; the situation is excellent.”, Slavoj Zizek conte

Start Time: 27th February 2024

The Sociology of Identity

politics

Frank Furedi

• Available Now

Instructor(s): Frank Furedi

Categories: Politics & Identity

The Sociology of Identity

Identity has played a crucial role in the modern era. Join Frank Furedi, a leading sociologist, and one of the world's leading thinkers on cultural issues, in this academy course, as he explores the notion of ‘identity’ and charts the evolution of what id

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The history and philosophy of human nature

science, philosophy, arts

Subrena Smith

Untangling the mysteries of space and time

philosophy, science

Julian Barbour

The Metaphysics of Naturalism

philosophy

Fiona Ellis

Unlocking the Developing World

politics

Stefan Dercon

A New World Order

politics

Nigel Inkster

The Power of the Unconscious Mind

philosophy, science

Sam Coleman

Physics and the Meaning of Life

philosophy, science

Sabine Hossenfelder

A New Approach To Race

Tommy Curry

The Philosophy of Psychedelics

Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes

Why We Misunderstand Mental Health

science

James Davies

The Evidence and the Solution to Culture Wars

politics

Eric Kaufmann

Unwrapping Beauty

arts

Bence Nanay

To See The One That Sees You

arts

Janne Teller

The Power of the Brain

philosophy, science

Lisa Feldman Barrett

Engineering Our Humanity

arts, philosophy, science, politics

Melanie Challenger

The Future of Liberalism

politics

Mark Littlewood

Stoicism as Practical Philosophy

arts, philosophy

Massimo Pigliucci

What Men Really Want

arts, politics, science

Nina Power

AI: Bias, Trust, and Doing Good

science, politics

Joanna Bryson

China's Next Moves

arts, politics

Rana Mitter

Life Lessons from David Hume

philosophy

Julian Baggini

Breathing Life into the Laws of Physics

philosophy, science

Sara Walker

Jared Diamond on Personal and World Crises

politics, science

Jared Diamond

Exploring Intelligence

science, philosophy

Susan Schneider

How to Lose a Country and How to Save It

arts, philosophy, politics

Ece Temelkuran

Massive Gravity

science

Claudia de Rham

Pure Awareness and the Ethics of Machine Learning

philosophy, science