#681 - Gad Saad
Gad Saad is Professor of Marketing & Concordia University Research Chair in Evolutionary Behavioral Sciences and Darwinian Consumption and author of "The Evolutionary Bases of Consumption" and "The Consuming Instinct"
Episodes with Gad Saad
Categories
Key Takeaways
The concept of microaggressions complicates discussions around free speech.
Understanding this helps navigate the tension between sensitivity and open dialogue.
Academics often operate within insulated environments that skew political perspectives.
This can lead to a lack of exposure to diverse viewpoints, impacting education.
Religion often provides a sense of community and support.
This highlights the social function of religion in aiding individuals in difficult times.
Locus of control affects how people attribute their life experiences.
Understanding this can help in addressing behaviors linked to gambling and risk.
Unfalsifiable claims hinder scientific progress and understanding.
Recognizing the limits of belief helps in distinguishing science from pseudoscience.
Episode Timestamps
Academia's Impact on Free Speech and Cultural Norms
- Discussion on the chilling effects of language restrictions in academia.
- Concern over rising victimhood and microaggressions in educational discourse.
- Critique of how cultural movements engage with free speech and social justice.
Exploring the Role of Religion and Psychology in Human Behavior
- Religion serves as a comforting scaffolding for many facing existential angst.
- Beliefs may provide community support, especially in adverse situations.
- Psychological concepts like locus of control influence individual behavior and perceptions.
Exploring the Intersection of Science, Technology, and Spirituality
- Discussion on unfalsifiable concepts and their relation to science and belief.
- Examination of synchronicity and the influence of technology on perception.
- Analysis of birth order theory and its connection to innovation and creativity.
Discussion on Gender, Sexuality, and Cultural Narratives
- Critique of campus culture surrounding sexual violence narratives and free speech.
- Exploration of male and female responses to visual stimuli in relationships.
- Analysis of cultural representations in romance novels and their implications.
Exploring Identity and Anti-Semitism in the Middle East
- Discussion highlights the complexities of Jewish identity in Lebanon and the Middle East.
- The podcast critiques social perceptions of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism.
- Personal stories illustrate the challenges faced by Jews in a predominantly Muslim society.
The complexities of ideological rigidity and coalitional psychology
- Coalitional thinking influences human behavior and social dynamics in various contexts.
- Religious ideologies often hinder reformation and open discourse, especially in Islam.
- Societal alienation contributes to radicalization and violence, as seen in current events.
Discussion on Russell Brand and the complexities of free speech
- Russell Brand's blend of humor and political commentary sparks diverse reactions.
- The importance of free speech is highlighted amidst controversial discussions on Islam.
- Self-censorship in discourse leads to significant societal implications.
Exploring the Role of Psychedelics in Perception and Society
- Psychedelic drugs may help reset human consciousness and perceptions of reality.
- Historical religious experiences possibly linked to psychedelic substances like DMT.
- Current societal norms around sexuality and polygamy reflected in media and psychology.
Exploring Gender Identity Through Evolutionary Psychology and Social Constructs
- Discusses the interplay between biology and socialization in gender identity formation.
- Highlights scientific studies that challenge traditional views on gender role socialization.
- Explores the implications of gender-neutral experiments in various cultures.
Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Public Discourse
- The impact of social media on the formation of echo chambers is alarming.
- Academics are encouraged to engage with the public to share knowledge effectively.
- The evolution and accessibility of information in media has changed dramatically.
People Mentioned
David Sloan Wilson
Evolutionary biologist
Ariel Helwani
Media Personality
Laura Kipnis
Professor, Author
Ben Affleck
Actor
Sam Harris
Author, Philosopher
Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
Spiritual leader of Muslim Brotherhood
Al-Baghdadi
Former leader of ISIS
Russell Brand
Actor, Political Commentator, Comedian, Comedian and social commentator
John Marco Allegro
Scholar, Author
Regular Dude
Podcaster, Commentator
Places Mentioned
Lebanon
Country
Sweden
Country
Books Mentioned
Darwin's Cathedral
David Sloan Wilson
Born to Rebel
Frank Sulloway
DMT: The Spirit Molecule
Dr. Rick Strassman
Notable Quotes
"It's unbelievable the chilling effect this has on free speech."
Discussing the impact of language restrictions in academia.
"Microaggressions, raising awareness gives examples that trigger people into an infinite loop."
Critiquing the concept of microaggressions as presented in academia.
"People in bad places and bad situations see religion helps."
Discussing the utility of religion in difficult life circumstances.
"The idea of internal versus external locus of control is critical."
Exploring how people understand their own agency in life.
"No, sticking magical thinking. Yes, okay, listen, universe uh working together sort science stuff overrated."
Discussing the perception of spiritual beliefs in science.