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Cultured Sloth Conversations

Cultured Sloth

Censored by Algorithms: The Truth About Online Moderation

April 8, 2025

Who really decides what you can and can’t say online? In “Your Post Has Been Removed,” Frederik Stjernfelt and Anne Mette Lauritzen expose how tech giants like Facebook, X, and Google have quietly become the ultimate censors—erasing posts, silencing voices, and shaping public debate on...

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Cultured Sloth

From Threats to Leverage: Shaping Global Influence

April 6, 2025

In this episode, we explore Putting Economics Back Into Geoeconomics by Christopher Clayton, Matteo Maggiori, and Jesse Schreger. We examine how countries harness their economic might to influence global affairs, with a focus on the resurgence of economic threats as modern coercion tools. Join us...

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Cultured Sloth

Rewriting the Rules: How Ordinary People Influenced Power

March 31, 2025

What if a simple petition could challenge authority, shape political decisions, or even spark major societal change? In “The Power of Petitioning in Early Modern Britain,” editors Brodie Waddell and Jason Peacey reveal how ordinary people—rich and poor alike—used petitions to make their voices heard...

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Cultured Sloth

Alone Together: Why Some Reject the Help They Need

March 25, 2025

What if help isn’t what we think it is? In this episode, we explore “The Angels Won’t Help You” by Matthew Bowker, a thought-provoking journey into the true nature of help—beyond kindness, beyond care, and into something far more complex. Through philosophy, psychoanalysis, and deeply...

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Cultured Sloth

Oil Wealth: Uganda’s Golden Ticket or Trap?

March 19, 2025

Is oil a game-changer for Uganda’s future or a potential pitfall? In this episode, we explore “Oil Wealth and Development in Uganda and Beyond,” edited by Arnim Langer, Ukoha Ukiwo, and Pamela Mbabazi. With massive oil reserves discovered in the Albertine Rift Valley, Uganda faces...

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Cultured Sloth

Beyond Big Tech: A European Vision for Data Protection

March 13, 2025

How can we protect our privacy in an increasingly digital world? This episode explores the thought-provoking insights from “Selbstbestimmung, Privatheit und Datenschutz,” edited by Michael Friedewald, Michael Kreutzer, and Marit Hansen. The book examines the challenges posed by digitalization and the governance mechanisms that can...

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Cultured Sloth

The Moral Dilemma of Intelligence Agencies

March 6, 2025

How much should we sacrifice for security? In a world where intelligence agencies wield powerful surveillance tools, the ethical stakes have never been higher. “National Security Intelligence and Ethics,” edited by Seumas Miller, Mitt Regan, and Patrick F. Walsh, unpacks the tough questions: Where do...

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Cultured Sloth

AI vs. The Law: Who’s Really in Control?

February 27, 2025

Is the law equipped to handle the rapid rise of AI? In this episode, we explore “Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence and the Law”, edited by Henrique Sousa Antunes, Pedro Miguel Freitas, Arlindo L. Oliveira, Clara Martins Pereira, Elsa Vaz de Sequeira, and Luís Barreto...

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Podcast

Beyond the Mainstream, Into the Unspoken

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Sweet Success: Beekeeping Practices for the Tropics

In this episode, we explore L’apiculture by Peter David Paterson, a comprehensive guide to beekeeping in tropical regions with a special focus on African practices. The book offers valuable insights into the biology of bees, hive construction, and the harvesting and processing of honey and...

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The Universe and Us: Exploring the Cosmic Connection

In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersections of cosmology, society, and human understanding through insights from KOSMOS: Vom Umgang mit der Welt zwischen Ausdruck und Ordnung, edited by Peter König and Oliver Schlaudt. This collection spans disciplines and historical eras, examining how humanity’s understanding...

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Bally’s Footwear Revolution: From Utility to Chic

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Bally, the renowned Swiss shoe company, during the interwar period through insights from Bally—A History of Footwear in the Interwar Period, edited by Anna-Brigitte Schlittler and Katharina Tietze. We examine Bally’s innovative design strategies, production methods,...

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A Sip Through Time: The Story of Japanese Tea

In this episode, we explore the rich history of Japanese tea through A Bowl for a Coin: A Commodity History of Japanese Tea by William Wayne Farris. This book traces the journey of tea, from its introduction in the 8th century as a medicinal drink...

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Faces of the Unknown: The History and Meaning of Masks

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of masks, inspired by T.H.M. Gellar-Goad’s book Masks. The author traces the history and cultural significance of masks across different societies and time periods, revealing their roles in rituals, theater, art, and everyday life. We examine how...

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Carved Creatures: Mammals in Indian Sculpture and Folklore

In this episode, we explore Animals in Stone: Indian Mammals Sculptured Through Time by Alexandra van der Geer, a detailed examination of how animals are portrayed in Indian stone sculptures. The book delves into the zoological characteristics of these animals and their deep-rooted connections to...

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Cultured Sloth Podcast?
The Cultured Sloth Podcast explores a wide range of topics, from scientific breakthroughs and cultural history to art and today’s pressing global issues—such as sustainability, conservation, food security, human rights, and climate change. We also focus on foundational ideas like philosophy, ethics, classical literature, and ancient history that continue to shape our understanding of society, human behavior, and complex issues like governance and technology. By blending fresh perspectives with timeless wisdom, the podcast encourages curiosity and sparks meaningful conversations.
How do you select the books and journals you review?
Our selections feature a thoughtful mix of contemporary and classic works. We carefully choose materials based on their current relevance, listener suggestions, and enduring ideas from fields like science, history, education, and philosophy. Whether exploring a groundbreaking new discovery or revisiting a centuries-old text, we aim to highlight works that challenge conventional thinking and spark meaningful conversations.
Do you feature debates or discussions on controversial topics?
Yes, we don’t shy away from exploring challenging or controversial subjects. Our episodes often tackle thought-provoking issues, encouraging open dialogue and presenting diverse perspectives. We believe that discussing difficult issues helps create more meaningful connections and better understanding.
Do you cover global issues like sustainability or climate change?

Absolutely. Global issues like sustainability, climate change, and environmental preservation are central to some of our discussions. We explore these topics from various angles—scientific, cultural, and ethical—highlighting the challenges and innovations shaping the future. Our goal is to raise awareness and inspire positive action through informed conversations.

What is the Cultured Sloth Podcast's approach to complex topics?
We break down complex topics in a way that’s both engaging and easy to understand. Our objective is to make even the most intricate subjects accessible to everyone by exploring them through clear explanations, thoughtful analysis, and real-world examples. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just curious, we strive to spark interest and understanding in every listener.
Do you offer educational resources or further reading?
We typically provide information about the books or papers we review for listeners keen to learn more about the topics discussed on the podcast.
How do I listen to the podcast?

You can listen to the Cultured Sloth Podcast directly on Nonsuch Foundation or through Spotify.

Do I need an account to listen?
No account is required to listen to the episodes on our website or via streaming platforms
How often do new episodes come out?
We release new episodes every day. You can check our website or subscribe for updates.
How do I get notified when new episodes are released?

You can subscribe to our newsletter or follow the Cultured Sloth on Spotify and other podcast platforms to receive notifications about new episodes.

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