This chapter explores the public's perception of societal progress amidst political challenges, emphasizing the importance of historical context and cognitive biases in assessing modern conflicts. It contrasts overlooked conflicts like those in Ethiopia with more prominent narratives, such as the invasion of Ukraine, while discussing recent shifts in opinions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The speakers call for a deeper understanding of progress trends and the complexities of modern warfare, reflecting on the influence of external factors and changing societal attitudes towards military actions.
From the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the rise of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives and Artificial Intelligence, in this episode Steven Pinker, Matt Ridley, and Michael Shermer challenge conventional narratives and explore how we can continue to move forward.
They discuss the state of democracy, autocracy, and the lessons learned from historical crises, while offering insights into how innovation, rationality, and education can lead us through challenging times.
This session was presented at FreedomFest 2024. To see more speeches and sessions from FreedomFest, visit freedomfest.com/civl.