Does moral truth exist? In this episode I talk to the philosopher Sharon Rawlette about her work on moral realism, and her pursuit of a universal ethical theory grounded in the intrinsic value of conscious states. We discuss her book, The Feeling of Value, utilitarianism, the deep nature of value, hedonism, darwinian suffering, and Sharon’s belief in the teleological (purpose-driven) nature of reality. 

My Patreon ~ https://www.patreon.com/wakingcosmos

Sharon’s website ~ https://sharonrawlette.wordpress.com/

Consciousness and Moral Realism | Sharon Rawlette

I discuss the philosophy, history and movement of sentientism with Jamie Woodhouse.

Please support Waking Cosmos on Patreon here https://www.patreon.com/wakingcosmos

Jamie's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Sentientism

As mentioned in this episode, here is my conversation with David Pearce: https://on.soundcloud.com/suSUP

Jamie's conversation with David Pearce: https://youtu.be/zpjZWJGM5ak?si=a8oWS8lgoEAbBOWu

Is Sentientism the Future of Ethics? | Jamie Woodhouse | The Waking Cosmos Podcast

Philosopher Philip Goff joins me to talk about panpsychism, cosmic fine-tuning, and his hypothesis that the universe is driven to the creation of conscious life and value.

Please support Waking Cosmos on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/wakingcosmos

Philip's website: https://philipgoffphilosophy.com

Does the Universe have a Purpose? Cosmic Fine-Tuning and Consciousness | Philip Goff

For all of science’s impressive advancements, one problem has stubbornly eluded us: Why do we have consciousness? How does inert unconscious matter give rise to the light of conscious experience? Neuroscientist Donald Hoffman has been pondering this question throughout his career. His thinking has gradually led him to a surprising possibility — that consciousness itself is fundamental to reality. Donald’s theory, however, differs from that of the growing number of other scientists and philosophers now arriving at this conclusion. 
The fundamental nature of reality, Donald theorizes, is comprised of an infinite network of interacting conscious agents. Uniquely, Donald offers a precise mathematical definition of a conscious agent. He believes the theory may be used to reconstruct the universe and existing scientific discoveries purely through the interaction of these units of consciousness. As Donald has gradually become “a student of the math” his theory has led him to consider fantastic possibilities, including the existence of infinitely great minds which exist beyond our realm of perception. Among other possibilities, Donald believes “conscious realism” leaves the door open to life after death.
In my conversation with Donald we explore the surprising implications of his theory, and what it suggests about our own place in reality.

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider supporting Waking Cosmos on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/wakingcosmos

Pick up Donald Hoffman’s book “The Case Against Reality” (also on Audible) here: https://amzn.to/2T31Kes

Is there an Infinite Mind?  | Donald Hoffman Ph.D. | The Waking Cosmos Podcast

The universe is an extraordinary place, full of beauty and mystery. And yet, for all of the amazing things that science has discovered, the most surprising and mysterious aspect of reality is… us. 

Through the development of life and mind, the universe glimpses the potential of a subjective dimension, -of value, meaning, and significance. Today growing numbers of scientists and philosophers argue that proper recognition of the existence of consciousness reframes our entire cosmological picture. This series focuses on the extraordinary reality that the universe is waking up.

Is there an Infinite Mind? | Donald Hoffman Ph.D. | The Waking Cosmos Podcast

The Waking Cosmos Podcast

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