On today’s show, Chong and Dan address the idea of freedom, its promises and perils. We start with a popular definition of freedom ("I can do whatever I want, and not be subject to anything else") and trace its roots to the Existentialist philosophy of the 20th century. We then discuss examples of how this idea is expressed in (Western) society and culture, before tackling the problems with it. Rather than focusing on freedom, should we instead be thinking more carefully about the constraints and aspirations we wish to live by?
Connect with us
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ingoodfaithfm
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ingoodfaithfm
- Email - ingoodfaithmail@gmail.com
Show notes
Freedom - definition and roots (06:13)
- Pop culture definition
- Existentialist philosophy - "existence precedes essence"
- Freedom to (do whatever I want); freedom from (any constraints)
Existentialism (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy)
Examples in society and culture (18:13)
- Disney - Frozen and Zootopia
- Advertising
- Rick and Morty (Season 1, Episode 8)
- Natasha Bedingfield - "Unwritten"
Youtube - Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten (Official Video)
The problems with existential freedom (33:26)
- No such thing as freedom from everything and freedom to do anything
- Pursuit of freedom can be at odds with good/evil and human nature
- The paradox of freedom - more freedom is not an unambiguous good
Conclusion (54:13)
- A cautionary tale of desiring freedom from Dante's Inferno
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.