Should we strive to empathize with everyone, including those who represent the worst of humanity? On this episode of Arguing with the Internet, neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis tackle this topic, addressing questions such as: do we need to feel the emotions of others in order to be moral? Can too much empathy lead us astray in our moral decision making? If we empathize with abusers and despots, does that impair our ability to empathize with their victims?

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Could the world we know actually be a computer program? In this episode, neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis discuss arguments for and against simulation theory. Topics considered include: How likely is it that our universe is simulated? Regardless of whether or not we’re simulated, should we care? Do abnormal experiences provide evidence for the simulation hypothesis?

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Does the state have moral authority to execute its citizens? On this episode, neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis discuss the death penalty, considering questions such as: is life in prison worse than death? How much should we consider victim’s wishes during sentencing? Can the death penalty be applied equitably?

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Whenever we make a choice, does it make sense to say we could have chosen differently? On this episode, neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis discuss the elusive concept of free will. Topics considered include: Should we listen to our intuitions about free will? Do neuroscience or psychology elucidate this issue? Should our beliefs about free will influence our thinking about punishment and rehabilitation for criminals?

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Having kids is a perfectly normal thing to do, but is it ethical? On this episode, neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis discuss arguments for and against having children. Questions include: Do one’s life circumstances influence the morality of procreating? Should we care that children cannot consent to being born? Should steep declines in birth rates for rich counties influence our decisions about this issue?

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Louis Martin (neuroscientist) and Matthew Willis (philosopher) discuss whether too much of our lives is dominated by work. Questions considered: What amount of work is too much? Will advances in technology lead to more leisure time? Are long work hours unavoidable for certain professions? 

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Louis Martin (neuroscientist) and Matthew Willis (philosopher) discuss whether we should trust science and scientists. Questions considered: is there a unique scientific method? How do we determine whether someone is an expert? Should we look to scientific consensus when deciding what to believe?

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Neuroscientist Louis Martin and philosopher Matthew Willis discuss the morality of eating animals. Does it matter if your survival is at stake? If eating animals is OK, why can’t I eat someone in a coma?

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