#1241 - Sam Harris
NaN minutesEpisode #1241
Sam Harris is a neuroscientist and author of the New York Times bestsellers, The End of Faith, Letter to a Christian Nation, and The Moral Landscape. He is the host of the podcast “Making Sense" available on Spotify.
Episodes with Sam Harris
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Episode Timestamps
Conversation with Jack Dorsey on Censorship and Blowback
- Sam Harris discusses his podcast interview with Jack Dorsey and the blowback he received for it.
- The focus shifts to people online being critical of the discussion with Jack, particularly on the topic of censorship.
- Plans are made for a follow-up podcast to address specific instances of censorship and the role of a CEO in managing a large network.
Navigating Twitter Policy with Jack Dorsey
- Discussion about the challenges of discussing Twitter policies and instances of censorship with Jack Dorsey.
- Sam and Jack explore the nuances of Twitter's decision-making process and the public perception of selective censorship.
- Insight into the difficulty of probing deeper on Twitter policies and the limitations faced in understanding all cases of bans.
Brandon and Jack's YouTube Streaming Controversies
- Started streaming on YouTube as a side effort, not for profit initially
- Realized YouTube became a revenue source and popular platform for viewers
- Controversy around handling comments, accusations of deleting derogatory comments
Conspiracy Theories and Feedback Dynamics on YouTube
- Discussion on conspiracy theories related to YouTube audience and sponsorship
- Importance of feedback and censorship differences on various social platforms
- Comparison of ad placement on YouTube and audio platforms, evolving opinions and theories
Ethical Dilemma of Ad Sponsorship in Podcasting
- Sam Harris's personal struggle with using advertisements on his podcast due to credibility concerns
- Comparison between platforms like Facebook (ad-based) and Netflix (paywall model)
- Impact of ad-subsidized model on audience expectations of free digital content
Transition to Paywall Model and Value of Content
- Sam Harris's hybrid business model of putting selected content behind a paywall
- Challenges in convincing audience to pay for digital content despite high perceived value
- Psychological aspect of audience support and the shift towards philanthropic behavior
Impact of Podcast on Fleshlight Business
- Significant positive impact on the fleshlight business due to promotion on the podcast
- Increase in fleshlight sales, with 50% being attributed to the podcast's promotion
- Expansion of podcast space attracted advertisers, leading to new opportunities
Philosophy on Podcast Advertisements and Content Integrity
- Commitment to maintaining content integrity without influence from advertisers
- Willingness to lose advertisers if they interfere with podcast content
- Financial independence allows freedom to choose ads selectively and prioritize listener experience
Discussion about Elon's Stress and Overwork
- Elon Musk appeared stressed and overworked during the interview, leading to user interface problems.
- The conversation with Elon was challenging at the beginning due to his high stress levels.
- The timing of the interview was considered unfortunate given Elon's overloaded schedule and the presence of numerous issues demanding his attention.
Analysis of Liam Neeson's Controversial Statement
- Liam Neeson's disclosure of seeking revenge on a black man after a friend's rape was discussed.
- Debates on redemption and forgiveness in society, especially in the era of online scrutiny, were brought up.
- Although Liam Neeson's actions were deemed unsavory, clarifications were made on the distinction between racism and a reaction driven by tribal affiliation in his case.
Cara's Apology and Backlash
- Tech journalist Cara writes opinion piece for New York Times.
- Received backlash for disparaging remarks about the speaker.
- Apologizes on Twitter after realizing mistake.
Impact of Social Media and Predictions for Technology
- Discussion on the power dynamics in social media.
- Prediction of more invasive technology in the future.
- Observation on the evolving media landscape towards audio content.
2020 Election and Controversy Around Tulsi Gabbard
- Discussion about the political landscape leading to the 2020 election.
- Concerns about leftist SJW uprising and the need for a reasonable centrist candidate.
- Analysis of Tulsi Gabbard's candidacy, including concerns about her stance on Syria and Assad.
Identity Politics and Political Climate Against Trump
- Critique of identity politics and its potential impact in the context of the election.
- Concerns about alienating voters with extreme identity politics views.
- Discussion on concerns about immigration and the need for a balanced approach in politics.
James DeMore's Google Controversy & Gender Differences
- James DeMore faced backlash at Google for discussing gender differences
- DeMore's paper focused on biological differences between men and women
- Discussion of unequal representation in software development based on interests
Transgender Issues and Gay Rights Conflict
- Discussion on how transgender rights may conflict with gay rights
- Example given related to gender identity and sexuality
- Debate on the impact of recognizing gender differences on gay identity
Mark Wahlberg and Christian Picciolini: Paths to Redemption
- The challenge of rehabilitating careers in the face of past wrongdoings.
- Example of Mark Wahlberg's violent and racist actions in his youth.
- Discussion on Christian Picciolini's transformation from being a former neo-Nazi to a darling of the left.
Social Media Outrage and Cancel Culture Impact
- Exploration of social media's role in amplifying outrage and cancel culture.
- Anonymity's contribution to discouraging hospitable behavior online.
- Analysis of how political correctness from academic and institutional bubbles influences societal norms.
Norm MacDonald's Controversy and Apology Tour
- Norm MacDonald faces backlash for comments on Louis C.K. and attempts to apologize.
- Discusses the controversial use of specific terms and the repercussions.
- Netflix's response and the impact on Norm's career and personal well-being.
Free Will and Accountability in Modern Society
- Reflects on the concept of free will and its implications on forgiveness and accountability.
- Discusses complexities when judging individuals based on past actions.
- Emphasizes the role of genetics, experiences, and external influences in shaping behavior.
Understanding the Complexities of Human Behavior
- Human behavior is shaped by a multitude of causes and conditions, not solely individual choice.
- Comparing natural phenomena like hurricanes with human actions highlights the nature of attributing authorship.
- The discussion on discerning human evil from neurological conditions like psychopathy challenges traditional notions of morality and punishment.
Reconceptualizing Evil Through Neuroscience
- Examining psychopathy as a neurological condition underscores the influence of genes and environment.
- Considering a scenario where psychopathy can be cured with a simple fix alters perceptions of evil.
- Proposing a more compassionate view towards individuals by understanding the neurological underpinnings of behavior.
Discussion on Liam Neeson's Case and Tragic Family Incidents
- Media coverage and public reactions to Liam Neeson's case.
- Overview of the controversies surrounding Liam Neeson.
- Discussion on personal tragedies suffered by Liam Neeson including the deaths of his wife and family members.
Insights into Mike Tyson's Violent Behavior and Mental Training
- Reflections on Mike Tyson's violent past and factors contributing to his behavior.
- Importance of mental health norms and mental training.
- Comparison of mental training to physical training and the evolving understanding of mental health.
Mike Tyson's Journey and Transformation
- Mike Tyson's evolution from a feared heavyweight champion to a kind-hearted individual
- Discussion on the challenges faced by Mike Tyson in transitioning from a troubled past to fame
- Importance of mental coaching and emotional regulation in life struggles
Challenges and Uncertainties in Martial Arts Training
- The paradox of training martial arts without real-life application leading to uncertainty
- Discussion on the psychological aspects of preparing for violence and self-defense
- The value of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in providing confidence through pressure testing
Violence and Intuition: Understanding Dangerous Situations
- Untrained people may struggle with handling confrontations due to ego concerns
- Ego concerns can lead to dangerous situations and unnecessary conflicts
- Intuition plays a crucial role in detecting potential threats and dangerous individuals
Micro Expressions and Social Perception
- Micro expressions provide valuable information about intentions and emotions
- Intuition helps in assessing the reliability and trustworthiness of others
- Societal concepts like microaggressions and digital history impact social interactions and perceptions
Conversation with Majid Nawaz on Islam and Collaboration
- Discussing the documentary 'Islam in the Future of Tolerance' on collaboration with Majid Nawaz.
- Highlighting Majid Nawaz as a marginalized yet reasonable figure in the Muslim world.
- Reflecting on the challenges faced by Majid in having conversations within his community.
- Exploring the toxic projects and the need for sane conversations to reboot.
Comedy and Controversy: Louis C.K., Ricky Gervais, and Chris Rock
- Analyzing the re-scandalizing of Louis C.K., Ricky Gervais, and Chris Rock's comedic acts.
- Discussing the context of the N-word controversy and blowback against the comedians.
- Reflecting on the evolving perceptions of comedy and the changing societal standards.
- Considering the impact of controversies on comedians and public reactions.