Looking to get your brain working a bit more? Philosophy podcasts are a great way to do that. They let you jump into deep talks about life’s big questions while you’re just doing your everyday stuff. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to philosophy or you’ve been thinking about this stuff for ages; these podcasts make it easy and interesting to see things in new ways. For example, ‘Philosophize This!’ takes you through philosophy history, breaking down complicated ideas so they’re easy to get. Listening to these best philosophy podcasts doesn’t just teach you new things, it also helps you think better and understand the world around you. This list has a bunch of great options for anyone wanting to explore philosophy and grow their mind.
Okay, so you’re trying to get into philosophy but the thought of reading Kant makes you want to hide under the covers? I get it. That’s where Philosophize This! comes in. It’s like philosophy for people who think philosophy is scary (which, let’s be honest, is most of us).
Stephen West does an amazing job of breaking down complex ideas into bite-sized, understandable chunks. He starts with the ancient Greeks and works his way through history, so it’s like taking a philosophy class, but way more fun and without the pop quizzes. You can find Philosophize This! on Apple Podcasts, and trust me, the reviews don’t lie – people love this show.
Seriously, if you’ve ever wondered what the heck Socrates was talking about, or why Nietzsche was so gloomy, this podcast is for you. It’s educational without being boring, and it might just make you sound smarter at parties (or at least give you something to talk about besides the weather).
Here’s why you should give it a listen:
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Okay, so you want to know everything about philosophy? Like, from the pre-Socratics to, well, whenever? Then buckle up, buttercup, because Peter Adamson’s got you covered. This podcast is seriously thorough. I mean, the title doesn’t lie; it really does try to cover the complete history of philosophy without any gaps. It’s like a college course, but you can listen to it while you’re doing the dishes or, you know, pretending to work.
Adamson’s approach is pretty straightforward. He just starts at the beginning and keeps going. It’s chronological, it’s detailed, and it’s surprisingly engaging, even when he’s talking about stuff that sounds drier than the Sahara. If you’ve ever wondered what those old dead guys were actually thinking, this podcast is a great place to find out.
It’s not exactly light listening, but if you’re serious about getting a solid grounding in the history of ideas, this is a fantastic resource. Plus, Adamson has a knack for explaining complex concepts in a way that doesn’t make you feel like a total idiot. Which, let’s be honest, is a major selling point for anything related to philosophy.
Here’s what makes it great:
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Okay, so, Very Bad Wizards is a podcast hosted by a philosopher (Tamler Sommers) and a psychologist (David Pizarro). What could go wrong? Well, they talk about philosophy, psychology, movies, and TV. Basically, they apply their academic brains to pop culture and everyday life, and it’s way more fun than it sounds.
It’s like hanging out with smart friends who aren’t afraid to be wrong (or, you know, very bad).
It’s not your typical dry philosophy lecture. They get into the weeds, argue, and generally make you think without making you feel like you’re back in college. If you’re looking for something that’s both intellectually stimulating and entertaining, this is it. Plus, they have a great dynamic, which makes even the most complex topics approachable. If you want to connect with the Wyatt Matters Comedy Podcast team, you might find some similar humor here.
I really like how they blend academic rigor with a casual, conversational style. It makes philosophy feel less intimidating and more like something you can actually use in your daily life. They’re not afraid to challenge each other, and that leads to some really interesting discussions.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might expect:
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Okay, so “Good Philosophy” isn’t just a clever name; it’s actually a pretty solid podcast. If you’re looking for something that’s not too heavy but still makes you think, this might be your jam. It’s like having a chill conversation about big ideas, without the pressure of writing a thesis on it later.
It’s the kind of podcast you can listen to while doing chores and still feel like you’re expanding your mind. No need to feel intimidated, just press play and let the good philosophy wash over you.
They cover a range of topics, from ethics to existentialism, so there’s usually something interesting to check out. Plus, the host has a pretty soothing voice, which is always a bonus. If you’re new to philosophy, this is a great place to start. If you’re not new to philosophy, well, maybe you’ll still learn something new, or at least have something to argue about with your friends. Either way, it’s a win-win. You can even check out year’s philosophical contributions to see what’s been going on in the world of philosophy.
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Okay, so Philosophy Bites is like, the perfect podcast for when you want to sound smart at parties but don’t actually want to read a whole book. David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton interview top philosophers on bite-sized topics – hence the name, duh. It’s philosophy, but, you know, snackable.
They’ve even got a couple of books out based on the podcast, which is pretty cool. I mean, who wouldn’t want to read “Philosophy Bites” while, you know, eating actual bites of something?
Honestly, sometimes I feel like I’m just pretending to understand half of what they’re talking about, but hey, at least I’m learning something, right? Plus, it’s way more entertaining than trying to decipher Kant on my own.
It’s great for those moments when you’re like, “Hmm, I wonder what a leading expert thinks about the ethics of vagueness?” Turns out, Philosophy Bites episodes has you covered.
Here’s why I think it’s awesome:
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Okay, so Hi-Phi Nation is like philosophy, but with stories! It’s not just some dude droning on about Kant (no offense, Kant). This podcast takes real-life stories and uses them to explore big philosophical ideas. Think of it as narrative journalism meets deep thoughts.
Each episode starts with a story and then dives into the philosophical questions it raises. It’s hosted by Barry Lam from UC Riverside, who brings in academics and philosophers to help unpack everything. If you’re looking for a way to make philosophy feel less like homework and more like a captivating listen, this might be your jam. It’s philosophy for the rest of us, really. You can find more Reddit podcasts online.
It’s a great way to engage with complex ideas without feeling like you need a PhD to understand what’s going on. The storytelling approach makes it super accessible and thought-provoking.
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Okay, so In Our Time: Philosophy is part of a bigger podcast, just called “In Our Time.” Think of it as a philosophy buffet within a larger history, science, and culture smorgasbord. Hosted by Melvyn Bragg on BBC Radio 4, it’s surprisingly popular. I mean, who knew so many people were secretly into super-intellectual stuff?
Each episode usually tackles a specific philosopher or philosophical concept. They did one on Aristotle and his ideas about life, which was actually pretty interesting, even for someone like me who usually zones out during deep talks. It’s a great way to get a quick philosophy fix without having to read a whole book.
It’s like eavesdropping on a really smart conversation in a coffee shop, except you don’t have to pretend to understand everything. Just nod occasionally and hope no one calls you out.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Ever find yourself pondering the really big questions, like why is the sky blue or does pineapple belong on pizza? (The answer is obviously no.) Well, The Philosopher’s Zone is here to help you untangle those brain-bending thoughts. Hosted by David Rutledge and brought to you by ABC Radio National, this podcast dives into the trickiest bits of logic, ethics, and metaphysics.
It’s like having a friendly chat about philosophy without the pressure of writing a term paper.
Think of it as your weekly dose of intellectual stimulation, minus the headache. They tackle everyday concerns and try to give you some explanations that are actually useful. Plus, with over 200 episodes, you’ve got plenty to keep you busy. If you are looking for a podcast that blends faith, humor, and real-life insights, check out Steve Wyatt’s podcast.
The show’s tagline is pretty spot on: “The simplest questions often have the most complex answers.” It’s a reminder that even the silliest-seeming questions can lead to some pretty interesting places.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
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Okay, so Sam Harris. The guy’s got a brain the size of a planet, probably. He’s a neuroscientist, philosopher, and author. Basically, if you want to feel intellectually inferior while simultaneously learning something, this is your podcast.
Harris tackles big, thorny issues – the kind that make you go “hmm” while you’re doing the dishes. He dives into the human mind, society, and current events with a rational approach. It’s like having a super-smart friend explain the world to you, but without the condescension (usually).
I really like how Sam Harris brings in guests from all walks of life. It’s not just philosophers talking to philosophers; he gets perspectives from scientists, artists, and even people who completely disagree with him. It makes for some really interesting conversations.
Here’s why you might want to give it a listen:
He also created the Waking Up app, which is all about mindfulness. So, you know, he’s trying to make the world a better place, one podcast episode at a time.
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Okay, so you’re brand new to philosophy and the whole thing seems intimidating? No sweat! Philosophy For Beginners is exactly what it sounds like. It’s designed to be super accessible, even if your only prior experience with philosophy is that one time you accidentally wandered into a college lecture.
This podcast breaks down complex ideas into bite-sized, easy-to-understand chunks. Think of it as philosophy for people who think philosophy is only for super-geniuses (spoiler alert: it’s not!).
It’s like having a friendly chat about big ideas, without all the confusing jargon. Perfect for your commute, your workout, or when you’re trying to avoid thinking about your taxes.
This podcast is beginner friendly if listened to in order! For anyone interested in an educational podcast about philosophy where you don’t need to be a graduate-level philosopher to understand it. In chronological order, the thinkers and ideas that forged the world we live in are broken down and explained. Securing podcast sponsorships can help keep shows like this running, so listeners can continue to learn.
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Okay, so “In Our Time” is like that one friend who knows everything. Hosted by Melvyn Bragg on BBC Radio 4, this podcast isn’t just about philosophy; it’s a wild ride through history, religion, culture, and science. Think of it as your audio encyclopedia, but way more engaging. You can learn about philosophy episodes and so much more.
Basically, if you’ve ever wondered about, well, anything, “In Our Time” probably has an episode on it. It’s the kind of show that makes you feel smarter just by listening, even if you only retain about 10% of what’s discussed. And let’s be honest, that’s a win in my book.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it awesome:
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Okay, so Elucidations is a podcast from the University of Chicago, which already sounds pretty fancy, right? It’s hosted by Matt Teichman, and he chats with a different philosopher each month. They get into all sorts of stuff, from religious freedom to moral psychology. Basically, if you want to sound smart at your next dinner party, give this one a listen. You might even learn something!
It’s like eavesdropping on a really intense, but also strangely chill, conversation between two super-brainy people. Except, you know, you’re invited to listen in. And maybe even understand some of it. Maybe.
Here’s why you should check it out:
One episode that caught my eye featured discussions with the Elucidations podcast and musician Steve Petrinko. They explored the relationship with mainstream culture and various types of unpopular music. It’s a wild ride, trust me.
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Okay, so “Philosophy For Our Times”… the name’s not winning any awards for originality, but hey, maybe they’re putting all their effort into the content. This podcast brings you talks and debates from thinkers around the world. It’s like eavesdropping on a super-smart coffee break, except you’re probably doing the dishes instead of sipping a latte.
I mean, who doesn’t want to feel a little bit smarter while scrubbing burnt lasagna off a pan? It’s a great way to trick yourself into thinking you’re being productive while actually procrastinating.
I’ve been listening to this while doing chores, and I swear, the dishes seem to sparkle a little brighter now. Maybe it’s the soap, or maybe it’s the existential dread being temporarily replaced by intellectual curiosity. Either way, I’m here for it.
Here’s a quick rundown:
If you’re looking to evaluate the podcast and see if it’s a good fit for you, check out their listener numbers and recent guests. You might just find your new favorite way to avoid doing actual work.
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Okay, so the title might sound like it’s all about growing a beard and wrestling bears (though, hey, maybe it is sometimes!). But really, The Art Of Manliness podcast dives into a whole bunch of topics related to, well, living a better life. It’s not just for dudes, despite the name. They tackle philosophy, history, self-improvement, and all sorts of other interesting stuff. It’s like a variety pack of knowledge, but with a slightly more rugged presentation. If you’re looking for something that’s not strictly philosophy but still gets you thinking, this could be your jam. You might even learn how to tie a bow tie knot or something.
I started listening to this podcast because I was curious about the name, and I stayed because the content is surprisingly insightful. It’s not just about ‘manly’ things; it’s about being a well-rounded human. Plus, the host has a really chill voice, which is always a bonus.
It’s a good mix of practical advice and thought-provoking discussions.
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Okay, so “Theory & Philosophy” isn’t exactly a laugh riot, but hear me out. If you’re into continental philosophy and psychoanalytic theory (and who isn’t, right?), this podcast might just be your jam. It’s like, they take all those super complicated ideas and apply them to everyday stuff. Think of it as philosophy meets pop culture, but with way more footnotes.
It’s the kind of podcast that makes you feel smarter just by listening, even if you only understand, like, half of what they’re saying. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends at parties. Just drop some knowledge about David Guignion’s insights and watch their jaws drop.
Here’s what you can expect:
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Okay, so, The UnMute Podcast. It’s like hanging out with your super-smart friends who are really into philosophy, but also, they’re not afraid to get into the nitty-gritty of current events. They tackle some heavy stuff, but they do it in a way that doesn’t make you feel like you need a PhD to understand it. It’s philosophy for the rest of us, which, let’s be honest, is a welcome change. If you’re looking for something that’ll make you think without making your brain hurt too much, this might be your jam. You can find more about the podcast here.
Honestly, I started listening because I thought the name was cool. Stayed because they actually made me think about things differently. It’s not just abstract ideas; they connect it to what’s happening right now. Pretty neat, if you ask me.
Here’s why you might dig it:
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Okay, so The New Thinkery is all about uncovering rebellious ideas. Sounds intense, right? They dig into philosophy, human potential, and culture to help you find some direction when everything feels like a total mess. Basically, it’s like having a guide through the chaos, which, let’s be honest, we could all use.
It’s not just about abstract concepts; they try to make it relevant to what’s happening right now. Think of it as a philosophical toolkit for navigating modern life.
I mean, who wouldn’t want to be a little more prepared for the existential dread that comes with checking the news these days? If you’re looking for something that challenges your assumptions and maybe even gives you a new perspective, this could be your jam. Plus, it’s way more productive than doomscrolling. You can also check out Wyatt Matters episodes for more content.
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So, you’re wondering what’s left of philosophy? Well, this podcast is by some folks who almost made philosophy their career but then had second thoughts. Smart move, maybe? Each episode, they grab a short text and chat about it, trying to strike a balance between being insightful and just plain silly. You don’t need to be a philosophy expert to follow along, which is a relief, right?
Honestly, it’s like eavesdropping on a really smart, slightly tipsy conversation at a bar. Except instead of sports or politics, they’re dissecting some dead guy’s thoughts on existence. It’s surprisingly fun, in a nerdy kind of way.
Think of it as philosophy for the rest of us – the ones who don’t have a PhD but still like to ponder the big questions. Plus, they provide links to the texts they discuss, so you can pretend you actually read them before listening. Check out words of wisdom from past episodes.
Here’s what you can expect:
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Philosophy Now is like that quirky friend who always asks the big questions, even when you’re just trying to enjoy your coffee. It’s a podcast extension of the Philosophy Now magazine, which means they’ve got a solid foundation of content to draw from.
They tackle everything from ethics to metaphysics, and they do it in a way that’s surprisingly accessible. It’s not just for academics; it’s for anyone who’s ever wondered about the meaning of life (or, you know, just the meaning of Tuesday).
I appreciate how they manage to make complex ideas understandable without dumbing them down. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, philosophy is for everyone, even you!”
Here’s what makes it worth checking out:
If you’re looking for a podcast that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even question everything you thought you knew, Philosophy Now interview is a solid choice.
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Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into The Philosophy Podcast. If you’re looking for podcasts about philosophy that don’t take themselves too seriously, this might be your jam. It’s not your typical dry lecture; it’s more like hanging out with some friends who happen to be really into, you know, ideas.
This podcast is great because it tackles big questions without making you feel like you need a PhD to understand them. It’s accessible, engaging, and sometimes downright funny. Perfect for those moments when you want to ponder the meaning of life while doing the dishes.
It’s one of those good philosophy podcasts that sneaks some actual learning into your day without you even realizing it. Think of it as a philosophical Trojan horse – delivering wisdom disguised as entertainment. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends at parties (or at least confuse them).
Here’s why you might want to give it a listen:
So, if you’re ready to add a little philosophical spice to your life, give The Philosophy Podcast a shot. You might just find yourself thinking a little differently.
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Okay, so, Rationally Speaking is hosted by Julia Galef, who’s part of the New York City Skeptics. Basically, it’s all about where logic and, well, total craziness meet. Think of it as your guide to critical thinking in a world that often feels like it’s running on pure emotion.
It’s not just about being smart; it’s about thinking clearly, even when things get weird. Galef brings in all sorts of guests to talk about everything from cognitive biases to how to make better decisions. It’s like a mental workout, but way more fun than actual exercise.
Here’s what you can expect:
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This podcast is pretty straightforward: it’s all about new books… in philosophy. Imagine that! Each episode features an interview with the author of a recently published philosophical work. It’s like a book club, but you don’t have to pretend you actually read the book (though, you probably should if you want to sound smart at parties).
If you’re looking to stay current with the latest ideas and arguments in the field, this is your go-to podcast. It’s a great way to discover new thinkers and explore diverse perspectives without having to wade through dense academic journals. Plus, you might actually learn something!
It’s a great way to keep up with the academic side of things without, you know, actually being in academia. You can find Wyatt’s past publications if you’re looking for something to read.
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Okay, so Intelligence Squared is basically debate central. If you like listening to smart people argue (in a productive way, hopefully), this is your jam. They bring in experts to hash out all kinds of topics, from politics to science to culture. It’s like a mental workout, but you don’t have to sweat.
I mean, who doesn’t love a good debate? It’s way better than watching reality TV, and you might actually learn something. Plus, you can feel smug about expanding your mind while everyone else is binge-watching the latest dating show.
Listening to different viewpoints is important, even if it makes your brain hurt a little. It’s how we grow, learn, and maybe even find some common ground in this crazy world.
They aim to address extreme polarization in America by fostering open dialogue and critical thinking through debates, which is a noble cause, right? You can check out their debates and see what all the fuss is about. It’s like a verbal boxing match, but with ideas instead of fists.
Here’s a quick rundown:
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Okay, so Philosophy Talk Starters is like that friend who always asks the really deep questions at parties. You know, the ones that make you think, “Wait, do I even HAVE a soul?” Hosted by a team of brainy folks, including Ken Taylor and the host emeritus John Perry, this podcast aims to “celebrate the value of the examined life.” Which, honestly, sounds way more intense than it actually is.
They chat about everything from pop culture to science, and even throw in some moral dilemmas for good measure. It’s a fun way to learn new stuff and question everything you thought you knew. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged!
Listening to this podcast is like having a mini-philosophy class in your ears, but without the pressure of pop quizzes or having to write a thesis. It’s philosophy for the rest of us – the ones who didn’t spend four years (and a small fortune) studying it.
Here’s what you can expect:
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Alright, last but not least, we’ve got The Free Will Show. If you’ve ever stayed up late pondering whether your choices are actually yours, or if you’re just a puppet in some cosmic play, this podcast is for you. It’s like a philosophical playground where they tackle the age-old question of free will.
This podcast doesn’t just throw around big words and expect you to keep up. It breaks down complex ideas into bite-sized pieces, making it surprisingly accessible. They cover everything from the basic concepts to the latest debates in the field. So, whether you’re a seasoned philosopher or just someone who’s curious about free will, this show has something to offer.
It’s a great way to get a handle on the different viewpoints and arguments surrounding free will without feeling like you need a PhD to understand it. Plus, it’s hosted by folks who clearly love the topic, which makes it all the more engaging.
Here’s what you can expect:
Ever wonder how much control you really have over your choices? Dive into “The Free Will Show” to explore this big question with us. It’s a fun and thought-provoking chat you won’t want to miss. Head over to Wyatt Matters to listen to the full episode and join the conversation!
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So, there you have it! Twenty-five philosophy podcasts that are pretty much guaranteed to get your brain buzzing. Honestly, who needs a fancy university lecture when you’ve got these gems in your pocket? Whether you’re trying to figure out the meaning of life or just want to sound super smart at your next dinner party, these podcasts have got your back. Just hit play, and prepare to have your mind, like, totally blown. Happy listening, future deep thinkers!
Philosophy podcasts are like audio shows where smart people talk about big ideas. They cover topics like what’s right and wrong, what’s real, and what it means to be human. It’s a great way to learn and think deeply about life’s mysteries.
Not at all! Many philosophy podcasts are made for everyone, even if you’ve never studied philosophy before. They break down tricky ideas into easy-to-understand parts, making learning fun and simple.
Listening to these podcasts can help you think better, understand different viewpoints, and even make smarter choices in your own life. It’s like a workout for your brain!
The best way is to pick a topic you’re curious about. If you like history, try a podcast about old philosophers. If you’re into current events, find one that talks about today’s issues through a philosophy lens. Just start with what sounds interesting to you.
Most of these podcasts are free! You can find them on popular podcast apps like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Just search for the show’s name.
Yes, many podcasts have episodes that are perfect for beginners. Look for shows with titles like ‘Philosophy for Beginners’ or ones that explain basic ideas clearly. They’re designed to ease you into the world of philosophy.
Absolutely! Philosophy is all about asking questions and exploring different ways of thinking. These podcasts often bring up new ideas that can help you look at your daily life, big decisions, and even the news in a fresh, thoughtful way.
The best part is that you can listen to them anywhere! While commuting, doing chores, or just relaxing. They’re a perfect way to learn and think while you’re on the go.
