The Bitter Aftertaste of “Technical Sweetness”

Technical sweetness. Scientists and engineers use this phrase when a puzzle’s solution presents itself, when all the pieces fit beautifully and functionally together, when success at the particular endeavor presents itself in a neat package. Technical sweetness is alluring, consuming, and, as we can see in the story of Victor Frankenstein, potentially blinding to what might follow from the solution being sought. Scientists who are driven by technical sweetness can fail to see what might be obvious to those with a bit more distance — that despite some projects’ allure, sometimes completing the project is not desirable.

Continue ReadingThe Bitter Aftertaste of “Technical Sweetness”

Engaged Philosophy: Recent Works by Len Fleck

There have been three large themes in Fleck's recent published research and professional presentations: (1) abortion and the Dobbs decision; (2) public reason and bioethics; and (3) precision medicine, priority setting, and health care justice. All these themes represent engaged philosophy that aims to manage respectfully and thoughtfully the public discussion of controversial ethical and political issues.

Continue ReadingEngaged Philosophy: Recent Works by Len Fleck

Christian Lotz Publishes Edition “Reading Continental Philosophy and the History of Philosophy”

This inaugural volume of Continental Philosophy and the History of Thought seeks to establish the tone for a series that explores the rich relationships between thinkers, schools of thought, and philosophical movements crucial for the evolution and development of Continental philosophy.

Continue ReadingChristian Lotz Publishes Edition “Reading Continental Philosophy and the History of Philosophy”