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Philosophize This! · May 10, 2026 · 28m

Episode #247 ... The Failure of the Modern University - Alasdair MacIntyre

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Stephen West explores Alasdair MacIntyre's later critique of higher education. MacIntyre argues that philosophy is not optional but is already embedded in all our practices and institutions. He contends that the modern university trains students into narrow technical experts who may excel in their field yet lack the judgment to comprehend the broader meaning or ethical implications of their work. The episode emphasizes phronesis—practical wisdom—as the antidote, making it essential for holding ourselves and our leaders to genuine account.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Canon

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Phronesis as Essential for Holding Ourselves and Leaders Accountable
MacIntyre emphasizes that phronesis (practical wisdom) is crucial for taking responsibility and holding those in power to account.
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Highlights

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Philosophy Is Already Hiding Inside Everything We Do
MacIntyre believes philosophy is not a separate, optional activity; it is implicit in all human practices and decisions.
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Universities Create Experts Without Deeper Understanding
The modern university system tends to produce people who are technically skilled but don't grasp what their work fully means in a human or ethical context.
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Real Education Produces Judgment, Not Just Technical Skill
Education, properly understood, should cultivate the ability to make wise judgments rather than merely transmit technical proficiencies.
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