In this episode we explore the placebo effect, the power of expectation, and the cognitive traps that correlate with IQ. Guest David Robson, a mathematician‑turned‑science writer, shares insights on intelligence traps, rationality, and how curiosity fuels breakthroughs.

- 00:00:00 - Introduction
- 00:05:55 - IQ tests measure what exactly?
- 00:08:00 - Various pitfalls of intelligence (IQ traps)
- 00:14:09 - Rationality is not emotionally comforting
- 00:16:51 - Is "truth" the most valuable pursuit? What is "truth"?
- 00:19:10 - Truth can be terrifying
- 00:24:14 - Curiosity is correlated with high IQ
- 00:28:53 - Breakthroughs are born through curiosity
- 00:36:13 - Contradiction is a healthy part of science
- 00:39:20 - The different styles of science
- 00:45:36 - The placebo effect: how "expectation" can overcome genetics
- 00:51:35 - Applying the placebo and expectation effects
- 01:05:51 - Frustration lies at the heart of learning
- 01:13:25 - Cultivating the qualities of a genius in yourself
- 01:18:33 - What is evidence-based wisdom?
- 01:23:42 - A standardized test for wisdom
- 01:31:03 - The relationship between IQ and RQ (rationality quotient)
- 01:33:23 - Ways to supercharge your rationality
- 01:35:48 - The scientific bias
- 01:41:56 - Parapsychological research
- 01:47:51 - What is "functional stupidity"?
- 01:52:39 - Curt finds holes in every argument
- 01:57:13 - Self deception is easy
- 02:00:38 - When high skill damages performance
- 02:04:20 - The best team is smart and disagreeable
- 02:10:44 - The power of a Yogi
- 02:18:20 - Your perceptions change future reality
- 02:20:19 - Ego depletion and the replication crisis
- 02:22:23 - The pilot sight test
- 02:27:16 - Acquiring creativity, productivity, and Savant-ism

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