Omelas
Of all the topics in the world, why economics, philosophy, and religion? My name is Aryaman Varma and I was brought up in a conservative Hindu family living in London. My introduction to religion was perhaps a strange one. When I was three, my dad was held hostage by violent religious extremists at the Taj Hotel in Mumbai, India.
My dad was one of the lucky ones, escaping with his life when many others did not. For me, this close encounter with extremism made me question the role of religion in everyday life and how it shapes world economies.
This podcast itself is named after the short utopian essay titled The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas. In this brief fiction, the author, Ursula K. Le Guin, invites readers to picture their own sense of the most happy society. However, the flourishing of the whole society is dependent on the perpetual pain and misery of one (ten) year old child. I began to think of this essay's practical relationship with the real world - e.g. offshoring and child labour in sweatshops. Hence, I am eager to explore the intricate relationship between ethics, economics and justice.
The unusualness of my experiences and the investigation of a niche and a developing topic must make this podcast a fascinating and intellectual listen.
Tune in to the Omelas podcast as I chat with economists, religious leaders and modern philosophers to help shine a light on the dark corners of economics, philosophy, religion and justice. Stream episodes through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, PodBean and more.
Episodes
Episodes
Tuesday Jun 06, 2023
Vedanta Philosophy with Prof. Bhaskar Ramachandran
Tuesday Jun 06, 2023
Tuesday Jun 06, 2023
Join us in this episode as we delve into the profound teachings of Vedanta Philosophy, a timeless tradition that explores the nature of reality, self, and the ultimate purpose of existence. Insights and practical applications from Prof. Bhaskar Ramachandran (Vedanta Institute London) await, offering listeners a fresh perspective on their spiritual journey!
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Mythos Unraveled with Author Amish Tripathi
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the realms of myth and imagination with highly acclaimed author Amish Tripathi.
Tuesday Apr 18, 2023
Holistic Health with Reeva Misra
Tuesday Apr 18, 2023
Tuesday Apr 18, 2023
Join us as we explore the transformative world of holistic health and education with the visionary founder behind a groundbreaking company, empowering individuals to lead joyful and informed lives.
Tuesday Mar 21, 2023
The Problem of Evil with the Head of Divinity at Eton College: Laura Miller
Tuesday Mar 21, 2023
Tuesday Mar 21, 2023
In this episode we will be discussing the intriguing and thought-provoking topic of the Problem of Evil. The Problem of Evil is one of the oldest and most perplexing philosophical issues, and it has challenged thinkers for centuries. It is a problem that raises profound questions about the nature of God, the meaning of human existence, and the relationship between good and evil.
Tuesday Feb 21, 2023
Business Ethics with Dr Arthur Keefer
Tuesday Feb 21, 2023
Tuesday Feb 21, 2023
In this episode of Omelas, we delve into the world of business ethics and the importance of ethical decision-making in the corporate world. Our guest, Dr Reverend Dr Arthur Keefer, will share his insights and experiences on navigating ethical dilemmas in the workplace, balancing profitability and responsibility, and creating a culture of integrity within an organization. We'll also discuss the consequences of unethical behavior and the impact it has on both the company and its stakeholders. Join us for a thought-provoking and informative discussion on the role of ethics in the business world!
Tuesday Jan 24, 2023
Practical Christianity with the Conduct of Eton College: Rev’d. Stephen Gray
Tuesday Jan 24, 2023
Tuesday Jan 24, 2023
If you've ever closed the Bible and said to yourself, "How do I apply this to my life", this episode is for you! In this episode, Reverend Stephen Gray, the Conduct of Eton College, explains how the Bible and more generally Christianity, can make a practical change to your life.