EconTalk Michael Blastland on the Hidden Half
Dec 28, 2020
In a fascinating conversation, author Michael Blastland explores themes from his book, "The Hidden Half." He discusses how deeper investigation into various fields reveals the limits of our understanding. Blastland highlights the impact of unseen factors on decision-making and the unpredictability of life. By examining biases and the role of randomness, he argues for a humble approach to knowledge. From medical uncertainties to the nuances of community contexts, he emphasizes embracing complexity rather than oversimplifying our understanding.
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The Hidden Half
- The "hidden half" refers to the unpredictable factors that disrupt our ability to fully understand cause and effect.
- These factors, like chance and luck, challenge our assumptions about how the world works.
Marmorkrebs Variability
- Genetically identical marmorkrebs raised in standardized environments showed surprising variability in size, lifespan, and behavior.
- This highlights the influence of factors beyond genetics and environment.
Tyson Brothers
- Mike Tyson and his brother, raised in the same violent environment, took drastically different paths.
- One became a violent criminal, while the other became a trauma specialist, illustrating unpredictable outcomes.
