Making Sense with Sam Harris #188 — A Conversation with Paul Bloom
Feb 28, 2020
In this engaging conversation, Paul Bloom, a Yale psychology professor known for his insights in cognitive science, dives deep into the virtues of President Trump and the campaign dynamics of Bloomberg and Sanders. They explore the limited role of parents in childhood development and the significant implications of wealth inequality and family structures. The duo also debates the controversial deplatforming of philosopher Peter Singer and even humorously contemplates whether Bloom should try LSD, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining discussion.
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Trump's Primary Win
- Trump's victory in the Republican primaries, despite lack of political experience, is noteworthy.
- His success can be attributed to his understanding of television and showmanship, which his opponents lacked.
The Chauncey Gardner Analogy
- Sam Harris likens Trump to Chauncey Gardner, a simple-minded gardener mistaken for a sage.
- He argues Trump's appeal lies in the audience's projection rather than his own brilliance.
Trump's Grotesque Appeal
- Paul Bloom suggests Trump's unlikely success can't be random, implying some skill.
- Sam Harris counters that Trump embodies American grotesqueness, amplified by reality TV.
