
Philosopher's Zone Bad thinking and good people
Dec 5, 2021
Join philosophy experts Stephen Nadler and Larry Shapiro as they explore why even good people fall for bad thinking. They delve into the concept of epistemic stubbornness, highlighting how irrational beliefs stem from a mix of flawed reasoning and social influences. Discover how education plays a crucial role in shaping critical thinking skills, and why philosophical tools are essential in navigating misinformation. The duo also discusses strategies to challenge entrenched beliefs and the potential for a new enlightenment through literature and thoughtful dialogue.
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Examples Of Outlandish Conspiracy Claims
- The episode opens with vivid examples: claims that Jacinda Ardern and Michelle Obama are men and the 'lizard queen' theory.
- It also recalls the QAnon-style claim about a Satan-worshipping cabal running child trafficking rings.
Reasoning As A Moral Habit
- Rationality and moral goodness are closely connected because thinking well guides right action.
- Being a reasonable person is a character trait, not just an isolated skill.
True Premises Trump Clever Arguments
- Good reasoning can still yield false conclusions if it starts from bad premises.
- Assessing the truth and reliability of premises matters more than rhetorical skill.



