The Story Collider

Someone Else's Shoes: Stories about understanding others perspectives

4 snips
Aug 15, 2025
Rob Reich, a Stanford social ethics professor and AI safety advisor, joins Kenneth Carter, a psychology professor specializing in thrill-seeking. Carter candidly shares his journey from a risk-averse life to exploring the thrill-seeker mindset through personal anecdotes. Reich critiques Stanford's tech-centric focus, advocating for a balance between liberal arts and technology in education. Both guests emphasize the importance of understanding diverse perspectives and the ethical implications of technology in shaping society.
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ANECDOTE

Predictability In Travel Dining

  • Kenneth Carter cancels a Hong Kong restaurant reservation after discovering it serves a fixed five-course surprise menu.
  • He admits his strong preference for predictability and pre-checking menus to avoid indecision and discomfort.
ANECDOTE

Watching Base Jumpers At Twin Falls

  • Kenneth Carter visits Twin Falls and watches base jumpers from the I.M. Perrine Bridge to research thrill seekers.
  • He describes watching Nick jump with an old rescue parachute and how their calmness contrasted with his own fear.
INSIGHT

Biology Behind Thrill Seeking

  • Thrill seekers produce less cortisol and more dopamine during chaotic experiences, altering their emotional response.
  • This chemical balance lets them feel calm and pleasure instead of the intense fear most people experience.
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