The Gray Area with Sean Illing Mysteries of the mind
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May 15, 2023 
Paul Bloom, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto and author of "Psych: The Story of the Human Mind," dives into the mysteries of the mind. He discusses the problematic theories of psychology's giants and the intersection of AI and consciousness, raising questions about replicating self-awareness in machines. Bloom also explores early childhood emotional development, the complexities of free will versus determinism, and the limits of self-control, emphasizing that understanding the human experience is an ongoing and intricate journey.
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Bloom's Path to Psychology
- Paul Bloom's autistic brother inspired him to work with children with similar challenges.
- He realized he preferred theoretical psychology after meeting Professor John McNamara.
Psychology's Appeal
- Intro to Psychology is universally popular because it promises self-understanding.
- However, the course often focuses on technical details rather than the broad questions students initially have.
Novels vs. Psychology
- Psychology offers scientific generalizations, but novels and movies better capture human experience.
- Novelists may be more astute observers of human motivation than psychologists.
