Exploring the Philosophical and Scientific | Dr. Daniel Dennett | EP 438

Added: Apr 9, 2024

Hierarchy of Good and Intentionality

Peterson introduces the idea of a hierarchy of conceptualization, where the religious enterprise specifies the highest aim or foundational aims. He suggests that the religious realm signifies the deepest and most foundational intentions. Dr. Dennett agrees that there is a hierarchy of good and mentions the concept of "summum bonum" as the highest good. He believes that human beings are the measure of what is good and that morality has evolved over time.

Perception and Affordances

They discuss J.J. Gibson's concept of affordances, where perception is influenced by the aim and intention of the individual. Peterson elaborates on the idea, suggesting that once an aim is established, the world presents pathways, tools, obstacles, markers of progress, markers of failure, allies, foes, and agents of transformation. Emotions play a crucial role in calibrating deviations from the pathway forward, with positive emotions marking progress and negative emotions marking obstacles.

Emotions and Self-Control

Dr. Dennett proposes that all control in the brain is done by emotions, and self-control is achieved through the negotiation of conflicting emotional states. He emphasizes that life is difficult because easy things lure us away from better answers, and self-control emerges from the integration of emotions towards a higher end. Peterson adds that the battle between emotions and motivations leads to a more unified and self-controlled individual.

Religious Symbolism and Relationship with the Divine

Peterson delves into the symbolism of the Egyptian god Horus, represented by an open eye, symbolizing voluntary attention to error. He connects this to the Old Testament's portrayal of the relationship with the divine as a calling, using the example of Moses and the burning bush. The burning bush symbolizes the dynamism of life, being and becoming, and the transformation process. Moses is drawn to investigate the burning bush, leading to a deeper relationship with the divine.

Critique of Religious Belief

Dr. Dennett critiques the religious enterprise for its focus on a supernatural agent whose approval needs to be sought or bargained for. He questions the need for a relationship with a higher power and suggests that morality and ethics have evolved beyond religious beliefs. He believes that human beings have the capacity to determine what is good and that morality is a human realm that has progressed over time.

Dr. Dennett acknowledges the historical significance of religion in providing a moral framework for civilizations. He compares religion to a "nurse crop" that initially served a useful purpose in maintaining social order and stability. However, he argues that as societies have evolved, secular ethics have become more relevant and effective in guiding human behavior.

Integration of Science and Morality

Both Peterson and Dr. Dennett agree on the importance of integrating science and morality. They discuss the evolution of ethics over the last 10,000 years and the secularization of ethics. While they may have differing views on the role of religion in moral development, they both acknowledge the ongoing discussions and disagreements on fundamental ethical issues.

Hierarchy of Value and Good

They establish common ground in the idea of a hierarchy of value or good, with Dr. Dennett acknowledging the importance of trust and goodwill in scientific endeavors. They discuss how the assumption of goodwill and trust is essential for scientific dialogue to progress effectively. Dr. Dennett emphasizes the importance of trust in human interactions and how it forms the foundation of civilization and scientific inquiry.

Relationship with the Good

Peterson proposes that thoughts can be seen as a form of secularized prayer, with the act of thinking preceding rational thought developmentally. He suggests that thoughts orient us towards our goals and transform them, similar to how perceptions and emotions function. Dr. Dennett agrees that thoughts can lead to new insights and revelations, especially in collaborative discussions where different perspectives are shared.

Revelation and Dialogue

They delve into the idea of revelation as a form of receiving new insights or ideas, particularly when aiming towards a higher purpose or truth. Dr. Dennett highlights the importance of dialogue and collaboration in stimulating new thoughts and perspectives. He sees the scientific enterprise as a form of secular science, where trust, goodwill, and academic freedom are essential for progress.

Intelligible Order and Scientific Enterprise

Peterson and Dr. Dennett discuss the assumptions underlying the scientific enterprise, such as the belief in an intelligible order and the benefits of mapping that order. They agree that science has a reputation for revealing order reliably and productively, based on its track record of success. However, they also acknowledge the potential dangers of technology being used for control and surveillance, as seen in the case of China's Skynet system.

Deviation from the Ideal

They explore the concept of deviation from the ideal within the scientific realm, particularly in cases where technology is used for nefarious purposes. Dr. Dennett raises concerns about the misuse of scientific advancements for surveillance and control, highlighting the need to distinguish between genuine scientific inquiry and harmful applications of technology.

Challenges in the Secular Morality

The conversation touches upon the challenges facing secular morality in contemporary society, particularly within academic institutions. Dr. Dennett expresses concerns about the erosion of academic freedom and the rise of postmodernism, identity politics, and virtue signaling. He suggests that these trends have led to a distortion of ethical principles and a lack of respect for truth.

The Dangers of AI

Dr. Dennett reveals that he is currently working on addressing the dangers of artificial intelligence and large language models. He warns about the potential threat posed by "counterfeit people," AI-generated entities that could undermine trust and destabilize society. He emphasizes the need to implement safeguards to prevent the misuse of AI technology.