Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Analysis

Factual: Politics

Programme examining the ideas and forces which shape public policy in Britain and abroad.

Programme examining the ideas and forces which shape public policy in Britain and abroad, presented by distinguished writers, journalists and academics.

BBC Radio 4 FM

Analysis: Samuel Scheffler on the Afterlife

Factual

Samuel Scheffler on the Afterlife

29/06/2015

BBC Radio 4 - Analysis, Samuel Scheffler on the Afterlife

Philosopher Samuel Scheffler, with Woody Allen's help, reveals our hidden motivating force

The philosopher Samuel Scheffler, with the help of Woody Allen, reveals a hidden force that motivates our actions: our belief in the continuation of humanity after our deaths.

The American philosopher Samuel Scheffler reveals a hidden force which motivates our actions: our belief in the continuation of humanity after our deaths. In an interview with Edward Stourton, plus a Q&A from an audience at the London School of Economics and Political Science, Scheffler proposes thought experiments which expose the importance of this conception of the afterlife. It is, he argues, this continued existence of the human race in general - and not just of our own descendants - which gives meaning and purpose to much of our lives. With references to Woody Allen, National Porn Shops and Martin Luther. Scheffler is professor of philosophy and law at New York University.
Producer: David Edmonds.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Analysis

Samuel Scheffler on the Afterlife

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4