#1068 - Michael Shermer
Michael Shermer is a science writer, historian of science, founder of The Skeptics Society, and Editor in Chief of its magazine Skeptic. His new book "Heavens on Earth: The Scientific Search for the Afterlife, Immortality, and Utopia" is available now.
Episodes with Michael Shermer
Categories
Key Takeaways
The belief in immortality drives diverse movements and ideologies.
Understanding these beliefs reveals societal values and aspirations for life beyond death.
Charismatic leaders often exploit followers' desires for connection and meaning.
This highlights the psychological vulnerabilities that can lead to cult-like dynamics.
The tax-exempt status of cults raises ethical concerns.
This insight highlights the potential for abuse within religious organizations.
There is a need for stricter regulations on tax-exempt entities.
Regulating these organizations could prevent exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
Mormons are viewed positively despite their controversial origins.
Their transition to a recognized religion showcases changing societal perceptions.
Watch the full episode of #1068 - Michael Shermer.
Episode Timestamps
Exploring Beliefs in Afterlife and Utopian Ideas
- Discussion on the intersection of science, religion, and immortality concepts.
- Critique of historical and contemporary religious movements and cults.
- Examination of futurist visions like mind uploading and radical life extension.
Discussion on Cults and Tax Exemption Controversies
- The podcast explores the troubling tax-exempt status of certain cults.
- Concerns raised about the influence of organizations like Scientology.
- Discussions include the role of government in regulating religious entities.
Exploring Near-Death Experiences and the Mormon Faith
- Discussion on the transition of Mormons from a cult to a recognized religion.
- Insights into near-death experiences and their neurological explanations.
- The impact of personal experiences on belief systems and consciousness studies.
Exploring Consciousness Through Psychedelics and Personal Experience
- Discussion centers on the nature of consciousness and psychedelic experiences.
- Exploration of the duality of experience versus scientific validation.
- References to influential figures and literature in psychedelic research.
Exploring Biblical Narratives and Psychedelics in History
- Discussion on DMT's role in interpreting biblical experiences like Moses' burning bush.
- Contemplation of ancient stories as metaphors rather than literal events.
- Examination of the Dead Sea Scrolls and their implications on Christian narratives.
Exploring Consciousness, Death, and Historical Perceptions
- Discussion of historical perspectives on civilization and the human condition.
- Exploration of consciousness and its relation to existence and reality.
- Critique of media representations of historical events and cultural narratives.
Exploring Consciousness, Death, and Quantum Physics Insights
- Discussion on the nature of atoms and empty space in quantum physics.
- Comparison between Western scientific views and Buddhist perspectives on consciousness.
- Contemplation on the implications of technological advancements on human thoughts.
Exploring Memory, Identity, and the Future of Humanity
- Memories are fluid, shaped by life experiences and not fixed.
- Mind uploading raises complex identity issues about consciousness and continuity.
- Recent advancements in cloning bring ethical questions about individuality and genetics.
Exploring Future Technology and Human Longevity
- Discussion revolves around potential advancements in technology and brain cloning.
- Concerns regarding human mortality and the desire for extended life are examined.
- The role of curiosity and artificial intelligence in shaping future existence is highlighted.
Exploring Perspectives on Death and Euthanasia
- Discussion highlights differing views on euthanasia and assisted suicide.
- Concept of 'terror management theory' explains fear of death's impact on creativity.
- Contemplation of consciousness and life after death raises philosophical questions.
Exploring Transhumanism and the Concept of Afterlife
- Discussion on transhumanism and its potential to reverse aging.
- The role of faith in alleviating existential concerns about life and death.
- Exploration of memory preservation and its implications in an afterlife context.
Exploring Diet, Longevity, and Misunderstood Nutrition Science
- Discussion highlights misconceptions about sugar and dietary fats impacting health.
- Insights on the importance of whole foods and heirloom varieties in diet.
- The conversation touches on current dietary trends and expert opinions.
Exploring Success, Risk, and Imagination in Entrepreneurship
- The conversation emphasizes the importance of action in achieving success.
- Oprah Winfrey's potential political run is discussed with a critical lens.
- The role of risk and optimism in entrepreneurship is highlighted.
Discussion on Government Surveillance and Ethical Dilemmas
- Post-9/11 surveillance raised concerns over government overreach and privacy rights.
- The complexity of ethical dilemmas in warfare and collateral damage was highlighted.
- Historical context on war legality and utilitarian calculus was examined.
Political Discourse on Power Dynamics and Media Integrity
- Discussion highlights the complexities of political power and media representation.
- The importance of free speech and open dialogue in political debates is emphasized.
- Concerns about corruption and misinformation in media and politics are raised.
Exploring Life's Meaning Beyond Happiness and Technological Aspirations
- Discussion on the challenges of colonizing Mars and human cooperation.
- Highlighting the importance of meaningful living over mere happiness.
- Reflecting on the societal implications of governance and power dynamics.
People Mentioned
Michael Sharma
Podcast Host
Ray Kurzweil
Futurist, Author, Futurist
Jim Jones
Cult Leader
David Koresh
Cult Leader
Lawrence Wright
Author, Documentary Subject
Sam Harris
Philosopher, Author, Podcast Host
Graham Hancock
Author, Researcher
Rick Strassman
Researcher, Author
John Marco Allegro
Scholar, Author
Deepak Chopra
Speaker, Author
Sean Carroll
Physicist
Christopher Hitchens
Author, Philosopher
Carl Sagan
Astronomer, Author
Nancy Siegel
Twin Expert, Researcher
Unidentified Thinker
Inventor, Engineer
Aubrey de Grey
Gerontologist
Nina Teicholz
Author and Nutritionist
Gary Taubes
Journalist and Author
Oprah Winfrey
Influencer, Media Personality
Jordan Peterson
Author, Educator
Tony Robbins
Author, Entrepreneur
Edward Snowden
NSA Whistleblower
Daniel Ellsberg
Former Military Analyst
George C. Scott
Actor
Noam Chomsky
Philosopher, Political Activist
Elon Musk
Entrepreneur, SpaceX CEO
Michael Shermer
Author, Scientist
Places Mentioned
Carlsbad
Location
Encinitas
Location
Santa Barbara
City
Cologne, Germany
City
Books Mentioned
Under the Banner of Heaven
Jon Krakauer
Cults and Their Influence
Lawrence Wright
Waking Up
Sam Harris
DMT: The Spirit Molecule
Rick Strassman
Sacred Mushroom and the Cross
John Marco Allegro
Dead Sea Scrolls and the Christian Myth
John Marco Allegro
Buddhism is True
Bob Wright
Accidental Brothers
Nancy Siegel
River Eden
Unknown
Good Calories, Bad Calories
Gary Taubes
The Big Fat Surprise
Nina Teicholz
Doomsday Machine
Daniel Ellsberg
Heavens on Earth
Michael Shermer
Notable Quotes
"Well, found interesting journeys people use try get religious perspective scientific perspective."
Discussing the exploration of afterlife beliefs.
"There's lot charismatic, hip, young preachers sort thing like that."
Commenting on the appeal of certain religious movements.
"It's strange United States government allowing people tax exempt."
Discussing the implications of tax exemptions for cults.
"Fear hell devil, fear IRS."
Commenting on the power dynamics involving the IRS and cults.
"Mormons really nice people. Totally nice. best cult."
Discussing the perception of Mormons in society.