The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 10 Episode 35 Harry Frankfurt

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart season 10 episode 35 features a discussion with philosopher Harry Frankfurt. Frankfurt is an expert in ethics and his work focuses on the nature of personal identity, freedom of the will, and the theory of action. During the episode, Stewart and Frankfurt engage in a lively and intellectual discussion about morality, politics, and the current state of the world.

The episode begins with Jon Stewart introducing Harry Frankfurt and providing an overview of his work. Frankfurt is a professor emeritus of philosophy at Princeton University, and has written several books on ethics and morality. Stewart is excited to have him on the show and begins the interview by asking Frankfurt to explain his views on ethics.

Frankfurt explains that he believes ethics is not about doing the right thing, but rather about caring about the right things. He argues that people should be motivated by their desires and interests, rather than by an external set of rules or principles. This leads to a lively discussion about the role of government in regulating behavior, with Frankfurt arguing that too much regulation can be counterproductive.

Stewart and Frankfurt then discuss the current political climate, including the recent election and the state of the Democratic Party. Frankfurt argues that Democrats need to do more to connect with voters and address their concerns, rather than simply relying on a message of resistance to President Trump. He also shares his thoughts on the role of political correctness in the current cultural climate.

Throughout the episode, Stewart and Frankfurt engage in a respectful and thoughtful discussion, with both men sharing their perspectives and challenging each other's ideas. They cover a wide range of topics, including the role of free will in ethics, the importance of personal responsibility, and the value of intellectual curiosity.

The episode ends with Stewart thanking Frankfurt for his time and insights, and encouraging viewers to read his books and engage in their own intellectual exploration. Overall, the episode is a fascinating and stimulating discussion of ethics, politics, and the human experience.