Philosophy and Recovery: Owen Flanagan Jr.'s Journey with Shame and Addiction
In my case, I want to say yeah, well, listen, I think there might be a few things I know better than you, but you're the expert when it comes at the intersection of neuroscience and morality and ethics.
How does a distinguished philosopher grapple with addiction and shame? In this compelling episode of 'Flourishing After Addiction', Carl Erik Fisher sits down with Owen Flanagan Jr., a renowned philosopher from Duke University, to explore his personal battle with addiction. Flanagan’s story is far from ordinary; his drinking began in his 20s and spiraled out of control following a brain tumor and adverse medication reaction in the 1990s.
Despite these challenges, he has carved out a path to recovery that intersects deeply with his philosophical work on consciousness, morality, and ethics. Flanagan opens up about the profound impact of shame on his journey and how he learned to work through it. He shares insights from his latest book, arguing that shame can play a crucial role in moral development when approached healthily.
This conversation is rich with reflections on how social support and individualized recovery approaches are essential, especially considering the social determinants of addiction. Listeners will find Flanagan's perspective on incorporating neuroscience into addiction treatment particularly intriguing. His experiences with Buddhism and perspective-taking also offer unique tools that have aided his recovery.
The dialogue between Fisher and Flanagan not only sheds light on the philosophical dimensions of addiction but also provides practical insights for those seeking to understand or support someone through recovery. Tune in for an engaging discussion that bridges philosophy and lived experience, offering hope and fresh perspectives on overcoming addiction.