This week, we are releasing three new Spectrum Street Epistemology conversations from Eastern Europe—and one features Peter Boghossian on the lines! As always, we have a preview for our Substack subscribers:
Tuesday
Peter Boghossian is usually asking the questions in Spectrum Street Epistemology (SSE) discussions, but the roles are flipped here. Several SSE participants become the hosts and question Peter about his stance on the claim, “People under 18 should be allowed to change their sex.” We hear Peter’s perspective on bodily autonomy and maturity and what it would take to change his mind.
Wednesday
Peter Boghossian engaged five people in Transylvania with the claim, “We should not judge other cultures.” All expressed some level of agreement based on human commonality regardless of superficial differences (like skin or hair color). When Peter directs the conversation toward cultural practices, we hear judgments leveled against certain cultural norms. One question inspires four participants to leave the game.
Thursday
A physician in Pécs, Hungary explores the claim, “I would fight for my country.” While the gentleman generally rejects violence, he admits there are circumstances that would cause him to use a weapon. We also hear his views on compulsory enlistment and Hungary’s involvement in Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine. At the end of this sorrowful discussion, Peter removes the claim from the board.
Let us know your perspective on these conversations! Share a comment here on Substack or on YouTube. Next week, we’ll share our final collection of videos from Eastern Europe.
I think Peter had a good explanation for why he strongly disagrees with the statement "Children under 18 should be allowed to change their sex." I think his reasons would resonate with most Americans. European countries have already tried and rejected the U.S. version of gender dysphoria treatment and now carefully evaluate each child; as a result, they have far fewer approvals of surgeries and other treatments that can cause permanent harm to children.