BOONE, N.C.—Dr. Christopher Bartel, an associate professor of philosophy at Appalachian State University, has contributed to “The Cops of Pop,” the fifth episode of “Hi-Phi Nation,” a story- and sound-driven podcast about philosophy.

“Cops of Pop,” which first aired Feb. 21, is available online at https://hiphination.org/episodes/episode-5-the-cops-of-pop. It explores the aesthetics of popular music, using two records from 1983 as a starting point.

One of Bartel’s specialty areas is the philosophy of music.

Hosted and produced by Dr. Barry Lam, an associate professor of philosophy at Vassar College, “Hi-Phi Nation” focuses on the philosophical examination of ideas that arise from ordinary and remarkable stories of human life. It aims to be an audio documentary in the vein of “This American Life,” a popular public radio program.

The first episode of “Hi-Phi Nation” aired Jan. 24. The podcast’s first season will conclude in April, having aired 10 episodes on such topics as war, religion, gender and public policy.

About the Department of Philosophy and Religion

The Department of Philosophy and Religion invites students to explore the world, examine beliefs, understand a diversity of worldviews, and challenge the ideas and values that instruct our lives. The department offers a B.A. in philosophy and a B.A. in religious studies, as well as a minor in both of these areas. It also offers a concentration for education majors. Learn more at https://philrel.appstate.edu

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.

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