Published Sep 28, 2020

Agnes Callard on Aspiration

Philosopher Agnes Callard delves into the nature and rationality of aspiration, offering a fresh perspective on how we acquire new values and evolve our desires. She explores how charisma, tradition, and neuroscience interact with personal aspirations, challenging conventional decision-making frameworks and underscoring the role of philosophical inquiry in navigating a world of diminishing constraints.

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Agnes Callard on Aspiration

Topics covered

Popular Clips

The Architecture of Self

Aspiration Unveiled

Aspiring without Prescribing

Tradition and Aspiration

Theory Shift

Open-Ended Aspiration

Ambition vs Aspiration

Weakness of Will

The Power of Charisma

The Power of Aspiration

Authenticity and Imagination

Rationality and Decision Making

The Two Selves

Aspiration and Morality

Episode Highlights

Nature of Aspiration

Role of Rationality

Influences on Aspiration

Related Episodes

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Agnes Callard on Meaning, the Human Quest, and the Aims of Education

Agnes Callard on Anger

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Angela Duckworth on Grit

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Agnes Callard on Aspiration

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Nature of AspirationAgnes Callard, a philosopher at the University of Chicago, explores the concept of aspiration as a rational process of acquiring new values. She discusses how aspiration differs from ambition and the intricate processes involved in transforming one's values and understanding.

Nature of Aspiration

Role of RationalityAgnes Callard explores the concept of rationality in aspiration, proposing that it involves a dynamic process of learning and evolving desires. She challenges traditional decision-making frameworks, highlighting their limitations in addressing significant life choices.

Role of Rationality

Influences on Aspiration

Related Episodes