What happens when academic theory collides with real life? How do philosophical ideas about identity, meaning, and beauty shape the way we see ourselves and the world? And how do we make sense of art, democracy, and even contentment in a time when everything feels uncertain?

We’re honored to welcome back David Goldblatt, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Denison University, for a continuation of one of our most thought-provoking conversations. David has spent decades expanding the reach of aesthetics, exploring the deep relevance of sports, ventriloquism, poetry, and performance in philosophical inquiry. He’s not just a scholar of art—he’s a passionate advocate for seeing beauty and meaning in the everyday.

In this second part of our conversation, we dive deeper into questions that linger long after class ends. We talk about the false split between academic theory and lived experience, and why some of the most powerful philosophical moments arise not in lecture halls but in moments of daily life—when we vote, make art, or feel the tension between contentment and anxiety. David shares reflections on how philosophy shaped his own journey, from early poetic readings to hard logic in university, and how he’s always been guided by a desire to sharpen thought and question assumptions.

We also explore the role of the teacher: should philosophers take responsibility for the impact their ideas have on students? How do we bridge the gap between intellect and embodiment, theory and action? Through examples ranging from tattoo culture to interpretive dance, David helps us understand how art enables a fuller expression of who we are—and perhaps more importantly, who we’re becoming.