logo
episode-header-image
Apr 2024
22m 57s

Daniel Dennett: Philosophy and atheism

Bbc World Service
About this episode

Another chance to listen to Stephen Sackur’s 2013 interview with American philosopher Daniel Dennett, who has died aged 82. Described as one of the Four Horsemen of New Atheism, Dennett wrote powerfully against religion. But do humans really want to live in a world where atheism rules and religion is dead?

Up next
Sep 1
Daron Acemoglu, Economist: Liberal democracy is in crisis
BBC Newsnight presenter Paddy O’Connell speaks to Nobel Prize-winning economist Daron Acemoglu about why he thinks liberal democracy is in crisis, and how artificial intelligence could make it worse.Daron argues that liberal democracy worked because people were given a say in how ... Show More
22m 59s
Aug 30
Michelle Bachelet, UN Chief candidate: Time for a woman to lead
“For 80 years, we only have men [lead the UN] and I think it is not about women because she is a woman … The idea is a woman because she has the experience, the leadership, the capacity, the knowledge, the ability to do things that need to be done…So I hope that that will be some ... Show More
23m 1s
Aug 27
Kristina Wilfore: Male anxieties being weaponised
“It's a distortion of real pressures. When I'm analysing trends around men…they are wanting to lean into what being a man means. In many cases strength, loyalty, protection. Those are not bad values. Those are being exploited, weaponised, and redirected in order to either sell a ... Show More
23m 33s
Recommended Episodes
Jun 2024
The Death of Daniel Dennett
Dr. Craig reflects on the legacy and views of atheist philosopher Daniel Dennett. 
26m 32s
Apr 2015
The World Needs Religion Even if it Doesn't Need God
God is dead and man has no need of the myths and false consolation that religion offers. That’s the battle-cry of Richard Dawkins and other tough-minded critics of religion. And yet millions cling to their faith, finding value and meaning in the concepts and rituals they adhere t ... Show More
1h 1m
Feb 2024
E85 - Alex O’Connor: Philosopher Reflects On Death, Atheism, Morality & Meaning
<p>Today we are joined by the Cosmic Skeptic, Alex O&#39;Connor, for a fascinating look into philosophy, atheism, and the pursuit of an ethical life. Alex has gained recognition for his unique perspective on reality, which he interprets through the lenses of materialism and agnos ... Show More
1h 30m
Oct 2023
Dan Dennett Looks Back on His Career
tail spinning
1h 28m
Sep 2023
Classic Replay: Was Christopher Hitchens right about religion? Peter Hitchens, Ed Turner & Peter Harris
From 2016: Until his death from cancer over four years ago, Christopher Hitchens was one of the preeminent figures of new atheism: a prolific writer who was eloquent, witty and in great demand for his speaking and debating. Justin is joined by Christopher's brother Peter Hitchens ... Show More
1h 18m
Mar 2012
Atheism
For the last few years a group dubbed the New Atheists have been waging a verbal war against religion. The language they employ is unrestrained. The late Christopher Hitchens was fairly typical when he wrote in his book "God is not Great," "Religion comes from the bawling and fea ... Show More
27m 43s
Nov 2011
#57 - Would The World Be Better Off Without Religion?
A rabbi, a descendant of Charles Darwin, a philosopher and a scholar face off over religion in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 
52m 30s
Jan 2024
Adventures in Philosophy with Daniel Dennett and Richard Dawkins
Two formidable minds explore the worlds of philosophy, science and the places where those two disciplines meet for this episode. Daniel Dennett is the American philosopher, writer, and cognitive scientist who is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Tufts University and has written ... Show More
58m 33s
Apr 2024
In Memoriam: Dan Dennett on Mortality, Life, and Existence
I filmed a conversation about death shortly after Dan Dennett recovered from a life-threatening condition. In addition to discussing personal mortality, we talked about bereavement. I thought this time it would be appropriate to listen again to his wisdom—the wisdom of a great th ... Show More
14m 48s