Guest Introduction
Dr. Brennan McDavid is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Chapman University. She specializes in Roman and Greek Philosophy and was my instructional professor for my philosophy of history course in undergrad. In today’s episode, we chat about her journey into philosophy, why she decided to focus on Roman and Greek Philosophy, how ancient perspectives inform modern problems, and much more. As always, if you like the episode, like the post, and consider sharing it with friends.
Show Notes
[0:25] Dr. McDavid introduces herself
[2:05] Dr. McDavid’s disillusionment with politics and her growing interest into philosophy
[8:10] How did Dr. McDavid get into ancient philosophy?
[11:25] Why did Dr. McDavid tolerate intense academic environments well?
[15:55] The most humbling classes are philosophy classes
[22:05] What is lost when people stop valuing the process of philosophical examination and deliberation?
[28:40] Straddling the balance between reading the ancients from a dispassionate perspective and evaluating their claims seriously
[31:45] The importance of trying to put on a hat of skepticism when dealing with any text
[36:55] Why avoid confirmation bias and seek those who believe different propositions from you?
[42:15] The Tradition of the Ancients was that the University is place to encounter those who disagree with you to figure out what you actually believe
[45:15] What did I really get out of University?
[46:55] Merging Science and Philosophy
[50:20] Dr. McDavid’s advice for aspiring scientists and medical professionals
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