Philosophy as mathematics with non-mathematical language
By Aristophanes • August 29, 2019
Both philosophy and mathematics commonly employ “mere thought” to develop our understanding of reality.
Without free will, can we still justify criminal imprisonment?
By Aristophanes • May 12, 2019
We can, but only by way of utilitarianism — not pleasurable quarantine.
Life is inherently meaningless. Don’t let that stop you.
By Aristophanes • December 16, 2018
The purpose of life is to find purpose in life.
How capitalism undercuts American journalism
By Aristophanes • October 20, 2018
Responsible news is less profitable than sensational coverage, creating headaches for professional journalists.
Philosophy civilizes disagreement
By Aristophanes • September 16, 2018
The act of engaging with foreign ideas fosters shared understanding among a diverse population.
Life is like a video game
By Aristophanes • June 25, 2018
Each day brings a new level of adventure and opportunity.
Philosophy cannot be useless
By Aristophanes • June 12, 2018
To call philosophy useless is, ironically, to philosophize about philosophy.
Existence coincides with essence
By Aristophanes • June 8, 2018
If we can’t change the future, can we still be free?
Don’t fear Trump. Fear what’s next.
By Aristophanes • January 26, 2018
The current era of American politics isn’t an aberration — it’s a harbinger of a dark future.
Legalize euthanasia
By Aristophanes • January 7, 2018
Assisted suicide is a moral choice that should belong to individuals, not archaic legal statutes.
Our 100th story: What we’ve learned
By Aristophanes • January 7, 2018
The American Unionist reviews the most popular stories since the site’s launch in August.
Free will reigns in Middle-earth
By Aristophanes • October 17, 2017
In The Lord of the Rings, J.R.R. Tolkien argues that free agency is the ultimate personal good.
Reliabilism’s causal component fails
By Aristophanes • October 13, 2017
The causal requirement cannot account for the many reasons one’s beliefs may be justified.
Free will is a comforting fantasy
By Aristophanes • October 9, 2017
Robert Kane’s theory of actions-based libertarianism makes three fatal errors.
Nozick’s libertarianism isn’t just
By Aristophanes • October 1, 2017
Libertarian theories often fail to account for unfair disparities in opportunity.
Originalism is shaping the Supreme Court
By Aristophanes • September 18, 2017
The doctrine of Neil Gorsuch and Antonin Scalia will influence the high court’s decisions for years to come.
Alexander, Weinberg and the problem of intuition
By Aristophanes • September 17, 2017
Two philosophers sought an answer to intuition’s utility. Their solution? Science.
Is there a moral obligation to give to charity?
By Aristophanes • September 14, 2017
Peter Singer says we must help whenever we are able, but his analysis isn’t quite right.
Moral imperialism isn’t novel
By Aristophanes • September 11, 2017
Modern thought is corrupted by a pervading present bias. The United States is no exception.
Criminal quarantine fails as an ethical theory
By Aristophanes • September 6, 2017
If free will doesn’t exist, how can we morally justify criminal containment?
