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The Reith Lectures

The Loss of the Stable State

Nov 15, 1970
This podcast explores the concept of stability and change in society, highlighting the human need for a constant identity. It delves into challenges posed by uncertainty in various fields and the erosion of stability in established institutions. The discussion touches on rapid technological advancements, economic shifts, and the intersection of institutional stability and personal resilience.
43:19

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Belief in stability shields against uncertainties, ingrained in personal identity and societal values.
  • Dealing with uncertainty requires adaptive responses across psychology, business, and science domains.

Deep dives

Belief in the stable state as a bulwark against uncertainty

Belief in a stable state serves as a protection against uncertainties stemming from change. The insistence on stability is deeply ingrained, evident in how we define personal identity, regional affiliation, occupational roles, and values. Despite outward approval of change, the core belief in stability is pervasive, acting as a shield against the fear of the unknown.

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