298: Thinking Like a Philosopher: Jonny Thomson on Truth, AI, and the Socratic Method

Oxford philosophy professor Jonny Thomson explains how philosophy sharpens critical thinking, reveals hidden biases, and helps uncover the truth in a messy, complex world. From the Socratic method to the role of testimony and the challenges posed by AI, this episode dives into the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and the modern search for knowledge. A must-listen for lawyers and anyone who values sharper thinking.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Exploration of the intersection between philosophy and artificial intelligence
• Johnny Thomson's transition from educator to full-time writer and his book "Mini-Philosophy"
• The role of the Socratic method in philosophy and law
• Discussion of Meno's Paradox and the debate between rationalism and empiricism
• Examination of the reliability of knowledge and the importance of reliable sources
• Contemplation of artificial intelligence's ability to replicate human intelligence

Resources from this Episode

• Jonny's Website
• Jonny on Instagram
• Jonny on TikTok
• Jonny's Big Think articles
• Jonny's LinkedIn profile
• Mini Philosophy, book by Jonny Thomson
• Mini Big Ideas, book by Jonny Thomson
• Mini Psychology, book by Jonny Thomson

General Resources

• Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers
• Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle
• Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive
• Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)
• Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch
• Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)

Other Resources

• The 80/20 Principle (email newsletter)
• The 5 Pillars of a Tech-Powered Law Practice
• The Inner Circle (online community for law firm owners)

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.