The Art of Manliness
#224: Why Smart People Do Stupid Things With Malcolm Gladwell
Aug 9, 2016
Join Malcolm Gladwell, renowned New Yorker writer and bestselling author, as he delves into why intelligent individuals sometimes make baffling choices. He uses Wilt Chamberlain’s peculiar decision to abandon a successful free-throw technique as a springboard to explore curiosity, social pressure, and perception. Gladwell examines the psychology behind peer influence, the complexities of decision-making, and the implications of social norms in sports and education. Plus, discover how running fuels his creative process!
35:56
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Quick takeaways
- Malcolm Gladwell illustrates how Wilt Chamberlain's abandonment of an effective free-throw technique exemplifies the self-sabotage common in human behavior.
- The discussion emphasizes the importance of seeking insights from lower-level individuals in organizations, as they often reveal clearer perspectives on processes and outcomes.
Deep dives
The Power of Underhanded Free Throws
Wilt Chamberlain's choice to abandon the underhanded free throw technique, which significantly improved his shooting accuracy, highlights a common human tendency to revert to less effective habits even when knowing better. This behavior exemplifies self-sabotage, as individuals often find comfort in familiar patterns, despite evidence suggesting that change could yield better results. The podcast explores this phenomenon further by comparing it to broader human experiences, such as addiction relapse or sticking to bad habits despite awareness of their negative impacts. By examining Chamberlain's decision and the subsequent implications, the discussion reveals a profound insight into why people may resist beneficial changes.
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