John Gray: podcast appearances and interviews

John Gray is an English political philosopher and author noted for his writings on analytic philosophy, the history of ideas, and philosophical pessimism. He served as School Professor of European Thought at the London School of Economics and Political Science until his retirement in 2008. Gray has authored several influential books, including 'False Dawn: The Delusions of Global Capitalism,' which critiques the stability of free market globalization; 'Straw Dogs: Thoughts on Humans and Other Animals,' which challenges philosophical humanism rooted in religious traditions; and 'Black Mass: Apocalyptic Religion and the Death of Utopia,' a critique of modern utopian thinking. His work often explores themes regarding human nature, morality, and the impact of human activity on the environment. Gray views volition and morality as illusions and considers humanity a species engaged in destructive tendencies towards other forms of life. He is a regular contributor to several prominent publications including The Guardian, UnHerd, The Times Literary Supplement, and the New Statesman, where he is the lead book reviewer. An atheist, Gray's writings reflect a skeptical perspective on societal progress and utopian ideals, emphasizing the complex and often pessimistic aspects of human history and future prospects.