#1456 - 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 “Giving the Devil His Due: Reflections of a Scientific Humanist” is available now.
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Key Takeaways
The pandemic has accelerated the shift to remote education.
This highlights the need for adaptation in learning environments.
Economic calculations on human life value are controversial yet necessary.
This raises ethical questions about policy decisions during the crisis.
Hydroxychloroquine's safety remains debated amidst the pandemic.
Understanding the drug's risks and benefits is crucial for public health.
Political polarization complicates effective public health responses.
Unity in addressing health crises can enhance community resilience and cooperation.
Government secrecy can perpetuate public mistrust and conspiracy theories.
Understanding this helps address why conspiracy theories gain traction.
Watch the full episode of #1456 - Michael Shermer.
Episode Timestamps
Impact of COVID-19 on Society and Economy Discussed
- COVID-19 has significantly altered social interactions and education methods.
- The economy faces severe challenges with potential long-term inflation risks.
- Countries like South Korea and Germany are managing the crisis effectively.
Discussion on Hydroxychloroquine, Political Polarization, and Civil Liberties
- Hydroxychloroquine is controversial, with mixed reports on its safety and efficacy.
- Political polarization has intensified, impacting rational discourse during the pandemic.
- Concerns about civil liberties arise with the use of contact tracking technology.
Discussion on Conspiracy Theories and Misinformation in Society
- The conversation highlights how government secrets fuel belief in conspiracy theories.
- Instances like the Pentagon Papers illustrate historical manipulation of public perception.
- Concerns about misinformation and the reliability of mainstream media are emphasized.
Exploring Censorship, Free Speech, and Societal Silence
- Discussion on the impact of censorship on societal beliefs and knowledge.
- Importance of free speech and listening to opposing views highlighted.
- Examples of historical and contemporary censorship were presented.
The Need for Open Discourse in a Polarized Society
- Polarization in society hampers open discourse and understanding across ideologies.
- Misrepresentation of individuals leads to emotional outbursts and stifles rational conversation.
- The complexity of moral issues requires nuanced discussions beyond binary thinking.
Debate on Free Speech and Hate Speech in Society
- Discussion on historical context of free speech and hate speech laws.
- Critique of cultural appropriation and its implications on free speech.
- Examination of moral progress and the evolution of societal norms.
Exploring societal structures and the role of firearms in culture
- Discussion on how tribal instincts affect modern societal behavior and gun ownership.
- Examination of the cultural differences between Northern and Southern attitudes towards honor.
- The impact of recent events on personal beliefs about self-defense and community justice.
People Mentioned
Mr. Schirmer
Commentator, Educator
Donald Trump
President of the United States
Edward Snowden
Whistleblower
Michael Shermer
Professional skeptic
Bill Gates
Businessman, Philanthropist, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Alex Jones
Media Personality
Lil Duval
Comedian
John Stuart Mill
Philosopher
Jordan Peterson
Psychologist, Author, Public Speaker
Places Mentioned
South Korea
Country
China
Country
Books Mentioned
Giving the Devil His Due
Unnamed author
Born Yesterday
Hugo Mercier
Give Devil His Due
Unknown
Notable Quotes
"We're going to get huge inflation, could be catastrophic."
Discussing the economic impact of the pandemic.
"There's a dollar amount put on human life."
Reflecting on the economic trade-offs in health and safety.
"Worst job world, President. matter do, everyone's going to, people going hate you."
Discussing the challenges of presidential leadership during crises.
"Nobody wants to give civil liberties; civil liberties lost rarely regained."
Commenting on the risks associated with contact tracking technology.
"One reason people believe conspiracy theories is there's a lot true."
Discussing the validity of some conspiracy theories.