Release date: October 7, 2012





By its very nature, science fiction has always been particularly suited to philosophical exploration. In fact, some of the best science fiction novels, short stories, movies, and TV shows function like extended philosophical thought experiments: what might cloning tell us about our views on personal identity? If we could all take a pill to be happy, would we want to do that? In this episode, Massimo and Julia recall some of their favorite philosophically-rich science fiction, and debate the potential pitfalls in using science fiction to reach philosophical conclusions.

Julia's pick: "3 WORLDS COLLIDE"

Massimo's pick: "Four kinds of philosophical people"

References:

The Philosophical Roots of Science Fiction

Science Fiction and Philosophy: From Time Travel to Superintelligence