On the Erudite Air

A A A Comments By Silke Tudor Wednesday, Jul 8 2009

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We know of ages when intellectual discourse was considered the height of fashion, and so it seems, after years of slacker-ennui and delirious self-gratification, we are hungry for something beyond the latest style of sneaker. Philosophy Talk, an hour-long radio show on KALW, tackles big ideas like truth, beauty, justice, and suicide in an approachable, even funny, conversational style. Today’s taping of Philosophy Talk: Live at the Marsh includes two shows: “What Are Words Worth?” featuring linguist Geoff Nunberg, professor at the UC Berkeley School of Information; and “War, Sacrifice, and the Media,” featuring Professor Judith Butler, also hailing from UC Berkeley. Nunberg is a regular language and usage commentator for NPR’s Fresh Air, in which, like a wild-eyed mushroom hunter, he combs through language, examining how words give form to concepts that shape our minds. Butler is an American poststructuralist, which means she does not view the “self” as a separate, singular entity. Her book Frames of War: When Is Life Grievable? peels back the simplified, sanitized version of violence submitted by media and asks if human cost ever can be represented. Join the discussion with hosts John Perry and Ken Taylor and help make thoughtfulness, concern, and curiosity cool again — or just trip out on broadcasting live to the masses.
Sun., July 19, 12 & 3 p.m., 2009

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What's happening in town? From underground club nights to the biggest outdoor festivals, our top picks for the week's best events will always keep you in on the action.