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NoodleCast #196: Spiritual Values, Political Parties, Immigration, and More

 Posted by on 25 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 252013
 

On Sunday’s Philosophy in Action Radio, I answered questions on spiritual values, advancing liberty through a new political party, welfare reform versus immigration reform, declining a friend’s plans for business partnership, and more with Greg Perkins. The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading. You’ll find it on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

Remember, you can automatically download podcasts of Philosophy in Action Radio by subscribing to Philosophy in Action’s Podcast RSS Feed:

Podcast: Spiritual Values, Political Parties, Immigration, and More

Listen or Download:

Remember, with every episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, we show how rational philosophy can help you find joy in your work, model virtue for your kids, pursue your goals effectively, communicate with respect, and advocate for a free society. We can’t do that without your support, so please remember to tip your philosopher!

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Introduction (0:00)

My News of the Week: I’ve been super-busy with house repairs, but don’t forget to register for SnowCon!

Question 1: Spiritual Values (3:11)

In this segment, I answered a question on spiritual values.

What are “spiritual” values? In your recent discussion of “Materialism in Marriage,” you talked about the importance of “spiritual values.” However, I found that confusing, since I’ve always associated “spirituality” with religion, often of the woozy variety. So what are spiritual values? How are they different from material values? Why are they important?

My Answer, In Brief: Understood rationally, “spiritual values” are values that sustain and nourish the mind. They are objective requirements of a person’s life and happiness.

Listen or Download:

Tags:

Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Advancing Liberty Through a New Political Party (24:33)

In this segment, I answered a question on advancing liberty through a new political party.

When would creating a political party advance the cause of liberty? At the moment, creating a new political party might not make sense in the United States because the Republicans and Democrats dominate the elections and the media. But when would be the right time to do so, if ever? In other countries, even tiny parties are discussed in the news, and they can win a few seats. Under those circumstances, does it make sense to create a political party advocating for individual rights? If so, what would be a good name for such a party?

My Answer, In Brief: With the two-party system firmly in place in the US, an activist would be wasting his time by creating a new political party. At present, activism outside of political parties is likely most effective.

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Tags:

Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Welfare Reform Versus Immigration Reform (39:37)

In this segment, I answered a question on welfare reform versus immigration reform.

Is the welfare state a good reason to restrict immigration? Conservatives – and even some Objectivists – claim that immigrants are flocking to the United States for our welfare benefits. They claim that immigration must be restricted until the welfare state is curtailed. Doesn’t this view amount to punishing would-be immigrants for our own welfare state?

My Answer, In Brief: Restricting immigration due to concerns about welfare evades the core problem of the welfare state, while massively violating the rights of would-be immigrants and everyone else.

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Tags:

Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 4: Declining a Friend’s Plans for Business Partnership (51:03)

In this segment, I answered a question on declining a friend’s plans for business partnership.

How can I say no to a friend’s request to become a business partner? Over the past several years, I developed a home craft business. Now that it is successful, one of my friends wants to be involved. She sends messages asking to get together to discuss ideas for new products and expanding the business. However, I am not interested in having a partner. How can I let her know that I don’t want a partner – without coming across as mean or hurting her feelings? Also, since I want to support and encourage my friends’ interests, I’m struggling with guilt for saying “no.” How can I overcome that?

My Answer, In Brief: You need to be clear with your friend about the boundaries of your business, in a kind way – and perhaps apologize for any mixed signals sent in the past.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Business, Communication, Ethics, Friendship, Moral Wrong, Relationships

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (57:37)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • Is there such a thing as “rational religion”?

Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:00:13)

Be sure to check out my blog NoodleFood and to submit and vote on questions for upcoming episodes.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Remember, with every episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, we show how rational philosophy can help you find joy in your work, model virtue for your kids, pursue your goals effectively, communicate with respect, and advocate for a free society. We can’t do that without your support, so please remember to tip your philosopher!

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NoodleCast #195: Chris Mortensen on Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged

 Posted by on 21 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 212013
 

On Wednesday’s Philosophy in Action Radio, I interviewed documentary producer Chris Mortensen about “Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged.” The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading. You’ll find it on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

Remember, you can automatically download podcasts of Philosophy in Action Radio by subscribing to our Podcast RSS Feed:

Podcast: Chris Mortensen on “Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged”

Chris Mortenson directed the excellent documentary, Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged. How did that project get started? What was required to make it a reality? How was it received? What’s next?

If you haven’t yet seen the documentary… don’t delay! It’s available on NetFlix streaming and Amazon streaming. If you enjoy the documentary, be sure to pick up the new book with the full text of the interviews, including much material that wasn’t included in the documentary. That’s available in paperback or for kindle.

Chris Mortensen is an award winning writer, producer and director has in the last fifteen years produced more than 100 hours of documentary and reality programming. His programs have appeared on History Channel, A&E, Discovery, TLC, BET, VH-1, TV-One, Lifetime Network, Fox Sports, ESPN, Travel Channel, Versus. GSN, TNN, Spike, and more. His latest project is “Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged,” a feature length documentary film that examines the resurging interest in Ayn Rand’s epic and controversial 1957 novel and the validity of its dire prediction for America.

Listen or Download:

Topics:

  • Chris Mortensen’s introduction to Ayn Rand and Atlas Shrugged
  • Documentary projects before Ayn Rand and the Prophecy of Atlas Shrugged
  • The theme of the documentary
  • Creating the documentary
  • How the documentary came about
  • Interviews for the documentary with Objectivist intellectuals
  • The documentary as fact-focused
  • Interviews for the documentary with businesspeople
  • Stories of and about Al Ruddy
  • The documentary and current politics
  • The response to the documentary
  • The value of Atlas Shrugged
  • If the documentary were made now…
  • The book of full interviews
  • America’s future

Links:

Tags:

Episode Sponsor

This episode was sponsored the incomparable Audible.com.

I’ve subscribed to Audible since 2005. With my “Platinum Annual Membership,” I enjoy 24 books per year for just under $10 per book. I read more books, thanks to Audible. I listen to books while in my car, as well as while cooking, cleaning, gardening, and more. I enjoy books more too, particularly fiction: a good reader adds a rich layer of color to the text.

If you want to try the delights of listening to books, be sure to take advantage of our special podcast-only offer of free 30-day trial subscription. You’ll get a great deal, and you’ll support Philosophy in Action in the process. It’s a win-win – and I love that!

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Remember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love doing that, but each episode requires our time, effort, and money. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

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NoodleCast #194: Marriage, Antibiotic Resistance, Guns, and More

 Posted by on 18 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 182013
 

On Sunday’s Philosophy in Action Radio, I answered questions on the value of marriage, antibiotic resistance in a free society, concern for attractiveness to others, semi-automatic handguns, and more with Greg Perkins. The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading. You’ll find it on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

Remember, you can automatically download podcasts of Philosophy in Action Radio by subscribing to our Podcast RSS Feed:

Podcast: Marriage, Antibiotic Resistance, Guns, and More

Listen or Download:

Remember, with every episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, we show how rational philosophy can help you find joy in your work, model virtue for your kids, pursue your goals effectively, communicate with respect, and advocate for a free society. We can’t do that without your support, so please remember to tip your philosopher!

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Introduction (0:00)

My News of the Week: I’ve been inundated with house repairs, plus working on some other small projects. If you plan to attend, please register for SnowCon sooner rather than later!

Question 1: The Value of Marriage (3:25)

In this segment, I answered a question on the value of marriage.

What is the value of marriage? How is it different from living with a romantic partner in a committed relationship? Is marriage only a legal matter? Or does it have some personal or social benefit?

My Answer, In Brief: The explicit, considered, and public commitment of a marriage offers major legal, business, social, and personal benefits over and above merely living together.

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Tags:

Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Antibiotic Resistance in a Free Society (21:13)

In this segment, I answered a question on antibiotic resistance in a free society.

How would antibiotic resistance be handled in a free society? Bacteria acquire resistance to antibiotics by exposure to low doses of antibiotics. Such low doses may come from misuse of antibiotics, for example when taken to combat a cold or flu (which are viral infection against which antibiotics do nothing) or by not completing the full course as prescribed by a doctor. Antibiotics are indeed awesome drugs which have saved millions of lives. But resistant bacteria pose a serious health problem, often causing serious and difficult-to-treat illness in third parties. What would be the proper way to address this problem in a free society?

My Answer, In Brief: In a free society, the development of antibiotics would not be hampered by the FDA, and private efforts could be made to minimize infections and promote proper use of antibiotics. The thorny legal question is whether the routine use of antibiotics in livestock, which contributes greatly to antibiotic resistance, constitutes a tort.

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To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Concern for Attractiveness to Others (38:21)

In this segment, I answered a question on concern for attractiveness to others.

Should you care whether other people find you attractive? I’ve heard some people say they don’t care what other people think of their physical appearance: they only care about their own judgment. To care, they say, is second-handed. Is that right? It is wrong to be pleased when someone compliments you on your clothes or hair?

My Answer, In Brief: A person can and should be concerned about his appearance and attractiveness to others, but only in a way that respects his own first-hand judgment of the facts.

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To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 4: Semi-Automatic Handguns (51:24)

In this segment, I answered a question on semi-automatic handguns.

Are semi-automatic handguns more dangerous than revolvers? In the wake of the Sandy Hook school shooting, many of my friends claimed that semi-automatic firearms should be banned. They think that people should only be permitted to own revolvers. What are the differences between these two kinds of handguns? Do those differences matter to public policy debates about gun rights and gun control?

My Answer, In Brief: In their basic functionality, semi-automatic handguns identical to revolvers. To demonize semi-automatics can only be based on ignorance.

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Tags: Firearms, Politics, Rights, Self-Defense

Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (1:04:06)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • Is a new school of philosophy required to classify Objectivism? Without such a classification won’t people continue to confuse Objectivism itself with a whole new open ended school?
  • Given that women will now be in combat, should the draft be extended to women?

Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:07:15)

Be sure to check out my blog NoodleFood and to submit and vote on questions for upcoming episodes.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Remember, with every episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, we show how rational philosophy can help you find joy in your work, model virtue for your kids, pursue your goals effectively, communicate with respect, and advocate for a free society. We can’t do that without your support, so please remember to tip your philosopher!

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NoodleCast #193: Michelle Minton on Your Freedom to Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

 Posted by on 14 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 142013
 

On Wednesday’s Philosophy in Action Radio, I interviewed Competitive Enterprise Institute’s consumer policy expert Michelle Minton about “Your Freedom to Eat, Drink, and Be Merry.” The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading. You’ll find it on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

Remember, you can automatically download podcasts of Philosophy in Action Radio by subscribing to our Podcast RSS Feed:

Podcast: Michelle Minton on “Your Freedom to Eat, Drink, and Be Merry”

The government heavily regulates food and drinks commonly regarded as dangerous or unhealthy. What motivates such regulations? Why are they so widespread? How can they be fought?

Michelle Minton is the Fellow in Consumer Policy Studies at the Competitive Enterprise Institute. The issues she manages include food policy, FDA regulation of non-pharmaceuticals, alcohol regulation, and the online gambling industry. Her work has been published and cited by nationally respected news outlets such as the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, prominent magazines, and scholarly journals.

Listen or Download:

Topics:

  • The most common regulations and laws pertaining to food and drinks
  • Colorado’s laws about grocery versus liquor stores
  • Federal versus state versus local regulations
  • The true purpose of these laws and regulations
  • The goal of Michelle’s advocacy
  • Why we have more regulations today
  • Conservative “solutions”
  • Bad studies and sloppy journalism: the phony case against the egg
  • The accusations against Four Loko
  • Future trends, including appeals to children
  • The three-tier system of alcohol distribution
  • Bootleggers and Baptists
  • Not being in the pocket of “big business”
  • Advocating for freedom in this area
  • Economic versus moral arguments for freedom
  • Effective arguments
  • Maintaining integrity in public policy work
  • Whether to support or oppose mixed proposals
  • How to support Michelle’s work

Links:

Tags:

Episode Sponsor

This episode was sponsored the incomparable Audible.com.

I’ve subscribed to Audible since 2005. With my “Platinum Annual Membership,” I enjoy 24 books per year for just under $10 per book. I read more books, thanks to Audible. I listen to books while in my car, as well as while cooking, cleaning, gardening, and more. I enjoy books more too, particularly fiction: a good reader adds a rich layer of color to the text.

If you want to try the delights of listening to books, be sure to take advantage of our special podcast-only offer of free 30-day trial subscription. You’ll get a great deal, and you’ll support Philosophy in Action in the process. It’s a win-win – and I love that!

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Remember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love doing that, but each episode requires our time, effort, and money. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

Philosophy in Action's NewsletterPhilosophy in Action's Facebook PagePhilosophy in Action's Twitter StreamPhilosophy in Action's RSS FeedPhilosophy in Action's YouTube Channel


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NoodleCast #192: Anti-Discrimination Laws, Cultural Change, and More

 Posted by on 11 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 112013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Sunday, 10 February 2013, answering questions on the wrong of anti-discrimination laws, Objectivism’s potential to save the culture, declining to socialize at work, and more. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers was my co-host.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast (or segments thereof) any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

To automatically download every new episode, just subscribe to the Philosophy in Action Podcast RSS Feed in your music player:

Podcast: 10 February 2013: Anti-Discrimination Laws, Cultural Change, and More

My News of the Week: I’ve been working on house repairs, planning for SnowCon 2013, and finalizing my dissertation for publication.

Listen or Download:

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Question 1: The Wrong of Anti-Discrimination Laws (2:06)

In this segment, I answered a question on the wrong of anti-discrimination laws.

What’s wrong with anti-discrimination laws? Most people support anti-discrimination laws, even though such laws violate the freedom of association. Have such laws done genuine good by making racism, sexism, and homophobia unacceptable in the culture? Have such laws had negative side-effects? Should they be abolished – and if so, why?

My Answer, In Brief: However well-intentioned, anti-discrimination laws violate every person’s right of free association and encourage systems of racial quotas. They also drive racism underground, cast unjust doubt on their supposed beneficiaries, and promote a race-focused culture.

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Tags: Culture, Discrimination, Ethics, Free Society, Law, Race, Racism

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Objectivism’s Potential to Save the Culture (28:46)

In this segment, I answered a question on Objectivism’s potential to save the culture.

Can Objectivism save the culture? Advocates of Ayn Rand’s philosophy of Objectivism often claim that the philosophy is necessary for substantially changing the culture for the better. That seems presumptuous to me. Is it true? Also, is the philosophy sufficient for saving the culture? Or is more needed?

My Answer, In Brief: Objectivism is important resource and guide in work of cultural change, but it’s not sufficient and only partly necessary. The goal must be to actively apply and circulate its core values – including secularism, rationality, egoism, virtue, individual rights.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Activism, Culture, Objectivism, Philosophy

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Declining to Socialize at Work (50:44)

In this segment, I answered a question on declining to socialize at work.

How can I politely tell my co-workers that I’m not interested in socializing? I have always struggled with the pressure to form friendships at work. Personally, I don’t want to hang out with my coworkers after work. I don’t want to chit chat during work. I won’t want to celebrate birthdays or other personal events. This is always interpreted as me being snobbish, aloof, and worst of all “not a team player.” It’s so annoying. I just want to do a good job and then leave, not join a social club. How can I communicate that without being offensive?

My Answer, In Brief: A person can be friendly and pleasant at work while declining to participate in social activities outside of work.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Communication, Friendship, Personality, Productivity, Psychological Visibility, Relationships, Work

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (1:03:12)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • What do you think the DiSC personality types of Ayn Rand’s heroes would be?
  • What do you think of the proposed Idaho bill that would require school children to read “Atlas Shrugged”?
Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:08:43)

Thank you for joining us for this episode! Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love producing every episode, but each requires requires our time, effort, and money – week in and week out. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

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NoodleCast #189: Studying Personality, The Golden Rule, and More

 Posted by on 4 February 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Feb 042013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Sunday, 3 February 2013, answering questions on the value of studying personality, the golden rule, yelling at employees, atheism as religion, and more. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers was my co-host.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast (or segments thereof) any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

To automatically download every new episode, just subscribe to the Philosophy in Action Podcast RSS Feed in your music player:

Podcast: 3 February 2013: Studying Personality, The Golden Rule, and More

My News of the Week: Last night, I attended a great lecture by Craig Biddle on “The Trinity of Liberty.” Also, registration for SnowCon 2013 is now open!

Listen or Download:

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Question 1: The Value of Studying Personality (2:29)

In this segment, I answered a question on the value of studying personality.

What is the value of understanding personality differences? You’ve become increasingly interested in personality theory lately. What are the major practical benefits of better understanding personality? Is understanding personality differences as important – or perhaps more important – than knowing philosophy?

My Answer, In Brief: If a person wants to deeply integrate the virtues into his own life, make better choices about his life and work, and enjoy more rewarding relations with others, then studying personality theory is invaluable!

Listen or Download:

Tags: Ethics, Personality, Psychology

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: The Golden Rule (24:55)

In this segment, I answered a question on the golden rule.

Is the Golden Rule a valid and useful principle of ethics? In past podcasts, you’ve mentioned that you consider the Golden Rule – meaning, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” – as flawed. What are some of the problems with this rule? Does it have any value?

My Answer, In Brief: The Golden Rule aims at some genuine values in ethics, but it’s too deeply rooted in subjectivism and formalism to be a valid or useful principle of ethics.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Christianity Religion, Ethics, Judaism, Justice

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Yelling at Employees (39:49)

In this segment, I answered a question on yelling at employees.

Is yelling at and shaming an employee ever justifiable? Imagine that a product at work must be shipped by a certain deadline – and if it’s late, the company will suffer a major loss. All the workers involved know that, yet as the deadline approaches, one worker works slowly, seemingly without concern for the deadline. When reminded, he acknowledges the deadline, yet his work continues to be as slow as ever. In such cases, might yelling at that worker – even shaming him in front of co-workers – be just what he needs to motivate him to get the project done? If not, what else should be done?

My Answer, In Brief: Yelling at and shaming employees is a disastrously unprofessional tactic in the workplace. It’s not only likely to backfire with that particular employee, but likely to destroy your relationships with your other employees too.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Ethics, Personality, Productivity, Work

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 4: Atheism as Religion (49:41)

In this segment, I answered a question on atheism as religion.

Is atheism just another form of religion? I often hear from religious people that atheism is just another form of religion – and just as much based on faith as Christianity and the like. Is that right or wrong?

My Answer, In Brief: Atheism is not any kind of religion or faith. Religion involves belief (without adequate evidence) in the supernatural, and atheism denies such claims because they’re utterly without rational foundation.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Atheism, Faith, Religion

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (58:22)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • Who are you rooting for in the Super Bowl?
  • What do you think about celebrating Ayn Rand’s birthday as “Randsday”?
Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:03:24)

Thank you for joining us for this episode! Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love producing every episode, but each requires requires our time, effort, and money – week in and week out. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Philosophy in Action's NewsletterPhilosophy in Action's Facebook PagePhilosophy in Action's Twitter StreamPhilosophy in Action's RSS FeedPhilosophy in Action's YouTube Channel


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NoodleCast #190: William E. Perry on What It’s Really Like to Be a Prosecutor

 Posted by on 31 January 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Jan 312013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Wednesday, 30 January 2013, interviewing former Arizona prosecutor William E. Perry about “What It’s Really Like to Be a Prosecutor.”

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

Podcast: 30 January 2013: William E. Perry on “What It’s Really Like to Be a Prosecutor”

What is the work of a prosecutor really like? In this interview, former Arizona prosecutor William E. Perry discussed the cases he prosecuted and various issues in criminal law – including the role of juries, standards of evidence, the drug war, confessions, and plea bargaining.

William E. Perry was a lawyer for 34 years. He spent seven years as a defense attorney and one year as a temporary judge. Most of the rest of the time he was a prosecutor for the Navajo Nation and four counties in Arizona. Mr. Perry supervised the criminal prosecutors in Arizona’s third largest county. He was was a major fraud and public corruption prosecutor, and then a homicide prosecutor, in Maricopa County. (That county includes Phoenix and the surrounding area. It was the sixth largest county in the United States at the time.) He is now retired.

Listen or Download:

Topics:

  • Becoming a prosecutor, including prosecuting for the Navajo Nation
  • How criminal cases get to trial
  • Preliminary hearings and grand juries
  • The problem of corruption
  • The trial process
  • Prosecutor caseload
  • Sentencing
  • The reliability of juries
  • Judges versus juries
  • The problem with “the drug war”
  • Police as hamstrung versus out-of-control
  • Confessions
  • Plea bargaining
  • Most interesting and rewarding cases

Relevant Links:

Tags:

Episode Sponsor

This episode was sponsored the incomparable Audible.com.

I’ve subscribed to Audible since 2005. With my “Platinum Annual Membership,” I enjoy 24 books per year for just under $10 per book. I read more books, thanks to Audible. I listen to books while in my car, as well as while cooking, cleaning, gardening, and more. I enjoy books more too, particularly fiction: a good reader adds a rich layer of color to the text.

If you want to try the delights of listening to books, be sure to take advantage of our special podcast-only offer of free 30-day trial subscription. You’ll get a great deal, and you’ll support Philosophy in Action in the process. It’s a win-win – and I love that!

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love producing every episode, but each requires requires our time, effort, and money – week in and week out. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

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NoodleCast #189: Addiction, Government Unions, Materialism, and More

 Posted by on 28 January 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Jan 282013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Sunday, 27 January 2013, answering questions on the nature of addiction, unions for government employees, materialism in marriage, mandatory child support, and more. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers was my co-host.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast (or segments thereof) any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

To automatically download every new episode, just subscribe to the Philosophy in Action Podcast RSS Feed in your music player:

Podcast: 27 January 2013: Addiction, Government Unions, Materialism, and More

My News of the Week: I’ve been enjoying the National Western Stock Show with my parents and Paul, then getting back to work.

Listen or Download:

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Question 1: The Nature of Addiction (3:09)

In this segment, I answered a question on the nature of addiction.

Is addiction a genuine phenomena? Can a person become dependent on alcohol or drugs to the point that he cannot prevent himself from consuming it, except perhaps by a supreme effort of will? Is such addiction physiological – or just a matter of bad habits of thought and action? Similarly, can a person be addicted to certain foods (such as sugar or wheat) or certain activities (like gambling or pornography)? If so, what does that mean? If a person is addicted to something, is the cure to abstain from it forever?

My Answer, In Brief: Drug and alcohol abuse and dependence are very serious problems, yet the standard disease model whereby a person cannot control his use of drugs or alcohol is wrong.

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Tags: Addiction, Alcohol/Drugs, Character, Ethics, Food, Habits, Psychology, Values

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Unions for Government Employees (33:58)

In this segment, I answered a question on unions for government employees.

Should government employees be permitted to unionize? In your 16 December 2012 discussion of “right to work” laws, you said that business owners should have the right to refuse to hire union members (or to fire them). How would that work for government employees? In a free society, could legislators (or departments) forbid government workers from being union members? Could they require union membership?

My Answer, In Brief: The role of unions for government employees can and ought to be set by the voters and/or legislators, but a smart policy would permit such unions to exist, but forbid any collective bargaining or any form of closed shop.

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Tags: Free Society, Government, Law, Politics, Rights, Unions, Work

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Materialism in Marriage (39:31)

In this segment, I answered a question on materialism in marriage.

Are materialistic couples less likely to have a lasting relationship? A recent study by Brigham Young University claims to show that concern for money causes stress in a relationship and that people who love money tend to be more impersonal and less passionate towards their loved ones. Is that right? Does it reveal some defect with a morality of worldly values?

My Answer, In Brief: The study in question was flawed — as is the standard distinction between “materialism” and “non-materialism.” People should recognize the importance of both material and spiritual values in their pursuit of the best that this world (i.e. the only world) has to offer.

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Tags: Capitalism, Ethics, Finances, Justice, Marriage, Psychology, Romance, Value-Density, Values, Wealth

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 4: Mandatory Child Support (53:29)

In this segment, I answered a question on mandatory child support.

Isn’t mandated child support basically just welfare for needy children? What is the moral difference between compelling parents to support their children and compelling all people to support the needy in society? Many critics of the welfare state believe that parents should be compelled to support their children with basic levels of physical sustenance and education, such that failing to provide these constitutes violating children’s rights. But how is that different from compelling people to support other needy or vulnerable people? Is the blood relationship what creates the obligation to support the child – and if so, how?

My Answer, In Brief: The obligations of parents to care for their children are not based on need or blood, but rather the voluntary assumption of that responsibility.

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Tags: Abortion, Adoption, Children, Ethics, Fatherhood, Free Society, Government, Law, Parenting, Pregnancy, Welfare

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (1:00:07)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • You said that Ayn Rand got a few things wrong on Aristotle. Which things?
  • Why do many people talk about nihilism as if it’s a type of depression?
  • Are there any works you’d recommend that in your opinion proof the legitimacy of transsexuality?
  • Do you consider yourself primarily a philosopher?
Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:06:51)

Thank you for joining us for this episode! Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love producing every episode, but each requires requires our time, effort, and money – week in and week out. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

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NoodleCast #188: Racism, Aristotle, Abortion, Marriage, and More

 Posted by on 21 January 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Jan 212013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Sunday, 20 January 2013, answering questions on solutions to widespread racism, recommended works of Aristotle, veto power over abortion, staying in a marriage, and more. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers was my co-host.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast (or segments thereof) any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

To automatically download every new episode, just subscribe to the Philosophy in Action Podcast RSS Feed in your music player:

Podcast: 20 January 2013: Racism, Aristotle, Abortion, Marriage, and More

My News of the Week: I’ve been having fun while my parents are visiting, plus working on the content and design of my soon-to-be-published dissertation.

Listen or Download:

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Question 1: Solutions to Widespread Racism (2:10)

In this segment, I answered a question on solutions to widespread racism.

Should the government intervene when widespread racism makes life impossible for some people? Given that the effect of strictly respecting the rights of private property owners in the South was that blacks could not find accommodations, health care, transportation, food, and other basic necessities of life, shouldn’t the government have intervened? Didn’t civil rights legislation help eliminate racism – and wasn’t that a good thing – even if that meant violating the right to property of racists?

My Answer, In Brief: Severe and widespread racism can only survive when enforced by government. As such, the solution to such racism is the elimination of the government’s violations of rights based on race. That will radically change a culture in and of itself. To attempt to do more – particularly to ban racism in private transactions – violates the rights of innocent people and sets a terrible precedent.

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Tags: Activism, Capitalism, Culture, Discrimination, Economics, Ethics, Free Society, History, Law, Race, Racism

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Recommended Works of Aristotle (30:21)

In this segment, I answered a question on recommended works of Aristotle.

What works of Aristotle do you recommend reading? As a layperson interested in philosophy, I’d like to educate myself on the philosophy of Aristotle. I’m particularly interested in developing a better understanding of epistemology and metaphysics. What works should I read, and where should I start? Do you recommend any secondary sources?

My Answer, In Brief: Aristotle is difficult but rewarding reading. Choose your readings based on your interests, and be very selective about any secondary sources.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Aristotle, Philosophy

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Veto Power over Abortion (46:56)

In this segment, I answered a question on veto power over abortion.

Should a man be able to prevent his pregnant girlfriend from aborting his baby? Sometimes, a man will get his girlfriend pregnant accidentally, and they disagree about what should be done. If the man wants the woman to carry the pregnancy to term, whether to give up the baby for adoption or him take sole custody, while the woman wants to get an abortion, should he be able to prevent her? It’s his baby, shouldn’t he have some say?

My Answer, In Brief: The right to abortion is not based on any property right in the fetus. Rather, the right to abortion is based on a woman’s right to her own body, including the fact that the embryo or fetus is not a person. The man might object, but he has no moral or legal right to interfere.

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Tags: Abortion, Children, Ethics, Fatherhood, Pregnancy, Rights

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 4: Staying in a Marriage (56:07)

In this segment, I answered a question on staying in a marriage.

If a married couple wouldn’t marry again, should they split? Many married couples seem to stay together due to inertia, not because they truly value each other. My view is that if a couple wouldn’t marry again, they should get divorced. Is that too high a bar in marriage?

My Answer, In Brief: A married couple probably should divorce if they wouldn’t marry again, provided that the romance is truly dead.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Children, Communication, Marriage, Romance

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (1:02:12)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • Which house in Hogwarts would you be sorted into?
  • What do you think of Lance Armstrong’s confession to doping?
  • How do the “open system” advocates reconcile the fact that the Ayn Rand Institute and supporters of it are producing new philosophical content?
Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:07:07)

Thank you for joining us for this episode! Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. We love producing every episode, but each requires requires our time, effort, and money – week in and week out. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar. We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is appreciated. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Philosophy in Action's NewsletterPhilosophy in Action's Facebook PagePhilosophy in Action's Twitter StreamPhilosophy in Action's RSS FeedPhilosophy in Action's YouTube Channel


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NoodleCast #187: Free Will, Romance and Religion, and More

 Posted by on 14 January 2013 at 8:00 am  NoodleCast
Jan 142013
 

I broadcast a new episode of Philosophy in Action Radio on Sunday, 13 January 2013, answering questions on free will and natural law, romance between an atheist and a believer, bringing children into a statist world, and more. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers was my co-host.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to or download the audio podcast (or segments thereof) any time. You’ll find the podcast on the episode’s archive page, as well as below.

To automatically download every new episode, just subscribe to the Philosophy in Action Podcast RSS Feed in your music player:

Podcast: 13 January 2013: Free Will, Romance and Religion, and More

My News of the Week: I’ve been SnowCon 2013 and working on the publication of my dssertation. Also, last night I discovered that an awesome picture of me and my shotgun appears in this CNN photoessay (#11).

Listen or Download:

You can download or listen to individual questions from this episode below.

Question 1: Free Will and Natural Law (4:26)

In this segment, I answered a question on free will and natural law.

Is free will merely an illusion? While I dislike the idea that we’re just puppets of physics and natural law, I wonder whether our seemingly “free” decisions are actually determined by the combination of our biology and our environment. After all, if our brain is merely a physical and chemical system, how could any any decisions be made freely? Wouldn’t that violate natural law? In essence, how can our knowledge that the physical universe is deterministic be reconciled with our subjective feeling that we choose our actions?

My Answer, In Brief: The evidence for free will is overwhelming, and the attempts to deny that are not scientific but rather based on a dogmatic adherence to reductionistic materialism.

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Tags: Causality, Free Will, Introspection, Materialism, Metapysics, Science

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: Romance Between an Atheist and a Believer (28:26)

In this segment, I answered a question on romance between an atheist and a believer.

Can a romance between an atheist and a religious believer work? What are the major obstacles? Should the atheist attend church or church socials with his spouse? Should they have a religious wedding ceremony? Should they send their children to religious schools? Do the particular beliefs – or strength of beliefs – of the religious person matter?

My Answer, In Brief: Religion is a fundamental motivator of values, and so romance between an atheist and a religious believer is possible, but fraught with danger.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Atheism, Character, Children, Compromise, Ethics, Honesty, Integrity, Marriage, Relationships, Religion, Romance

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 3: Bringing Children into a Statist World (51:46)

In this segment, I answered a question on bringing children into a statist world.

Is it wrong to have children in an increasingly irrational and statist culture? People should think about the long-range effects of their actions, and act based on principles. So if a person thinks that our culture is in decline – and perhaps even slipping into dictatorship – is it wrong for that person to have children? Is such an assessment accurate? Along similar lines, were people wrong to have children in the Soviet Union and other dictatorships?

My Answer, In Brief: If you don’t want to have children, that’s fine, but don’t use the ridiculous dogma of secular apocalypticism to justify that decision. Life, particularly for children, is better than ever before.

Listen or Download:

Tags: Apocalypticism, Children, Culture, Parenting, Politics

Relevant Links:

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Rapid Fire Questions (1:00:41)

In this segment, I answered questions impromptu. The questions were:

  • Imagine that you were to be able to trace every event in a person’s life back to infancy, such that you would be able to predict all their decisions based on their past experiences? What would the technical term for that be?
  • If pedophiles cannot change their sexuality, then is it wrong to simply attempt to suppress that?
  • Is it rational to refrain from flying because you object to the policies and actions of the TSA, even though you’d quite enjoy taking a vacation abroad with friends?
Listen or Download:

To comment on these questions or my answers, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion (1:06:29)

Thank you for joining us for this episode! Support
Our WorkRemember, Philosophy in Action Radio is available to anyone, free of charge. That’s because our goal is to spread rational principles for real life far and wide, as we do every week to thousands of listeners. So if you enjoy and value our work, please contribute to our tip jar! We suggest $5 per episode or $20 per month, but any amount is welcome. You can send your contribution via Dwolla, PayPal, or US Mail.

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio applies rational principles to the challenges of real life in live internet radio shows on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.

Philosophy in Action's NewsletterPhilosophy in Action's Facebook PagePhilosophy in Action's Twitter StreamPhilosophy in Action's RSS FeedPhilosophy in Action's YouTube Channel


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