Modern Wisdom #493 - David McRaney - Where Do Our Beliefs Come From?
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Jun 30, 2022 
David McRaney, a psychologist and author known for his work on belief formation, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the origins and complexities of our beliefs. He explains how group dynamics can shape individual convictions and why online arguments often fail. McRaney delves into the emotional underpinnings of beliefs, using the Westboro Baptist Church as a case study for extreme ideologies. Listeners will discover strategies for effective persuasion and learn how to foster genuine dialogue for belief change.
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Belief Complexity
- Beliefs are complex and involve facts, emotions, attitudes, and values.
- They are influenced by experiences, cultural norms, and social pressures.
Argument Backwards
- People often argue about justifications for feelings, not facts.
- This leads to unproductive arguments where both sides feel more entrenched.
Information Ecosystem
- The internet allows quick formation of groups around anxieties, amplifying tribalism.
- Misinformation is not new, but the scale of interaction and information voids are.
