#1222 - Michael Shermer
NaN minutesEpisode #1222
Michael Shermer is a science writer, historian of science, founder of The Skeptics Society, and Editor in Chief of its magazine Skeptic, which is largely devoted to investigating pseudoscientific and supernatural claims.
Episodes with Michael Shermer
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Episode Timestamps
Discussion on Nothingness and Perception
- Debate on the concept of 'nothing' and perception of absence of existence.
- Challenges in imagining non-existence and the true definition of nothing.
- Criticism of spiritual characters discussing purpose of life and unpredictability of death.
Exposing Psychic Frauds and Techniques
- Recounting the rise and fall of psychic phenomena like psychics talking to the dead.
- Critique of psychic methods such as cold reading and vague horoscope predictions.
- Insight into the deceptive practices of psychic networks and their business models.
Self-Help Book Analysis.
- Discussion about the importance of consistency in self-help practices like listening to tapes regularly.
- Exploring the author of the book 'Sham' and his insights on self-help book consumers.
- The effectiveness of motivational speakers like Tony Robbins in short bursts but the need for continuous reinforcement.
Impact of Small Wins & Broken Windows Theory.
- Emphasis on the significance of small wins in personal growth and motivation as discussed by Jordan Peterson.
- Exploring the Broken Windows Theory and its correlation to the decline in crime rates in New York City in the '90s.
- Comparing the transformation of New York City's Times Square from a seedy area to a commercial hub, reflecting societal changes.
Study on City Efficiency by Physicist Geoffrey West
- Physicist Geoffrey West conducted a study on city efficiency based on how fast people walk, correlating it to the city's population.
- The study revealed that larger cities are more efficient and people adapt to the pace of the city by walking and talking faster.
- As cities grow, there is increased efficiency in traffic flow and services like restaurants and gas stations per capita decrease.
Cultural Norms Impact on Behavior by Author Michelle Gelfand
- Author Michelle Gelfand's book 'Rule Makers and Rule Breakers' sheds light on cultural psychology and the concept of tight versus loose cultures.
- Tight cultures, like Germany, emphasize rules and norms while loose cultures, like California, are more flexible.
- The influence of norms and culture on behavior can be unconscious, shaping how individuals interact and adapt to societal expectations.
Origin of Scientology and the Influence of Ron Hubbard
- The discussion starts with the origin of Scientology, attributing it to the idea that El Ron Hubbard wanted to start a religion based on making things up.
- The impact of the HBO documentary 'Going Clear' is highlighted as a turning point in revealing the true nature of Scientology.
- The transition of perception among the public from positive views to skepticism towards Scientology due to increased access to information, including through the internet and media.
Critique on Scientology and the Real Estate Holdings
- A critique comparing Scientology to other religions, emphasizing the element of 'nonsense' that is perceived within all religions.
- The discussion expands to the vast real estate holdings of the Church of Scientology, positioning them as a key player in Los Angeles real estate.
- Exploration of the financial success and power dynamics of Scientology, despite shrinking membership, showcasing its continued influence.
Debating Identity in Heaven with Joe Rogan
- Discussion on the problem of identity in the context of resurrection in heaven
- Debate regarding physical body in heaven and age at resurrection
- Exploration of the significance of injuries and challenges in shaping one's identity
Investing in Defeating Aging with Jeff Bezos and Peter Thiel
- Investments by wealthy individuals like Jeff Bezos, Peter Thiel, and Google founders in anti-aging research
- Efforts to re-engineer cells and extend human lifespan
- Debating the focus on longevity versus addressing medical problems for a better quality of life
Investigation into Trump's Business Practices
- New York Times published extensive article on Trump's business practices back to the 70s
- Received media attention but quickly faded, despite thorough investigative work
- Highlighted unethical business practices, such as non-payment and lawsuits
Media Coverage and Fact-Checking in Politics
- Discussion on the reliability of media sources and fact-checking organizations
- Importance of a truly objective news service with 100% fact-based reporting
- Challenges in ensuring accurate information in a polarized media landscape
Controversy in Academia - Pete's Potential Future
- Dog park paper hoax garnered praise for Pete, James, and Helen's scholarly work.
- Pete and James faced challenges in academia due to controversial topics.
- Jordan Peterson's path of transitioning from teaching to becoming a global icon discussed.
Navigating Public Intellectualism - Prospects and Challenges
- Discussion on public intellectuals associated with think tanks like Cato Institute.
- Comparison made on engaging style and presentation of public speakers like Neil deGrasse Tyson and Bill Nye.
- Implications of truth, free speech, and ideologies in academia and public discourse.
Debate on Treatment of Transgender People
- Raging debate on whether transgender individuals should be treated equally regardless of science
- Challenges faced by individuals like Pete and Brett in politically affiliated think tanks
- Alternative opportunities emerging for public speaking engagements and shows to discuss controversial topics
Conspiracy Theories and Their Impact on Society
- Discussion on the impact of conspiracy theories on undermining real conspiracies
- Examples of legitimate conspiracies like Enron and Northwoods papers
- Exploration of why people tend to look for conspiracies in various situations
One World Trade Center and Space Elevator Conspiracy Theories
- Discussion about the construction of One World Trade Center, its height, and comparison to other tall buildings like the one in Dubai
- Mention of the concept of a space elevator and the challenges related to building a structure that reaches into space
- Conversation about anomalies in science and how theories may not explain everything, leading to discussions on alternative theories and the skepticism around space exploration
Space Conspiracy Theories and Moon Landing Hoax
- Exploration of the growing movement of people who believe space is fake and tie it to religious beliefs
- Discussion about conspiracy theories related to the moon landing, including anomalies and discrepancies in footage and data
- Anecdotes about encounters with individuals who believe the moon landing never happened and analysis of evidence that supports the moon landing
Moon Landing Conspiracy Theory
- Discussion about fake moon landing and humorous take on faking it
- Debate about the expenses of faking a moon landing versus actually going to the moon
- Exploration of conspiracy theories surrounding moon landing and the lack of concrete evidence
JFK Assassination and Conspiracy Theories
- Analysis of JFK assassination and the anomalies in the official narrative
- Critique of the magic bullet theory and doubts about the official investigation
- Discussion on the possibility of a larger conspiracy around the JFK assassination
Investigating the JFK Assassination
- Focus on the suspicious events surrounding OJ Simpson's trial and the planted evidence.
- Discussion around the involvement of Lee Harvey Oswald and potential conspiracies.
- Exploration of Jack Ruby's connections to the mob and the questions surrounding his actions.
Uncovering the Truth Behind the Investigations
- Debate between the theories of Lee Harvey Oswald acting alone versus being part of a larger conspiracy.
- Analysis of the discrepancies in autopsy results from different locations.
- Reflection on the impact of media, films, and investigations on public perception of the JFK assassination.
Lee Harvey Oswald and the Kennedy Assassination
- Discussion on Lee Harvey Oswald and his ability to shoot Kennedy
- Theories and doubts surrounding the accuracy of Oswald's shot
- Exploration of Dealey Plaza and the assassination location
Jamal Khashoggi's Murder and Saudi Arabian Involvement
- Details of Jamal Khashoggi's murder at the Saudi Embassy in Turkey
- Involvement of a team of 15 individuals and forensic experts in the killing
- Conspiracy theories around the motives behind Khashoggi's assassination
Fidel Castro and the Cuban Missile Crisis
- Discussion on how Fidel Castro was ready to go to extreme measures during the Cuban Missile Crisis
- Insight into the interactions between Kennedy, Khrushchev, and Castro leading to the resolution of the crisis
- Exploration of historical events such as Operation Northwood and Castro's leadership close to the US
World War II Museum in Moscow and Russian Perspective
- Visit to the Great Patriotic War Museum in Moscow showcasing Russia's contribution and losses in WWII
- Reflections on the perception of historical events from different countries' perspectives
- Overview of discussions on the distribution of news and biases in historical narratives
Secular Humanist Movement Discussions
- Discussion on the existence of secular humanist groups worldwide with similarities to church settings
- Exploration of ceremonies and rituals in humanist and Unitarian churches
- Importance of community gatherings and connections in humanist and atheist groups
Evolution of Social Attitudes Towards Religion
- Increase in secularism and decline in religious affiliations in the US and among Millennials
- Challenges posed by religious behavior in society, particularly in dealing with different value systems
- The need for rational, science-based belief systems in promoting universal human rights and equality
Impact of Pop Culture on Moral Progress
- Discussion on how scripts for television shows and films influence societal norms
- Importance of changing laws to prevent discrimination
- Noting the role of generations in changing societal views and the influence of media on moral progress
Societal Progress Over the Years
- Analysis of societal progress over the last 200 years
- Acknowledgment of ongoing issues like racial discrimination and anti-semitism
- Appreciation for the overall positive trend towards improvement in society