The Michael Shermer Show Matt Ridley, Steven Pinker, and Michael Shermer Challenge Conventional Narratives
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Sep 13, 2024 
Join cognitive psychologist Steven Pinker, known for his best-selling works on human nature, and author Matt Ridley, famous for his optimistic take on progress, as they tackle essential topics. They discuss the lessons from COVID-19 and the importance of data-driven public health decisions. The conversation delves into the debates surrounding DEI in academia, the dynamics of human behavior influenced by genetics, and the optimistic potential of artificial intelligence to enhance human rationality and innovation.
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Measuring Progress
- Assess progress by comparing today's troubles with yesterday's, not just by current events.
- Use quantifiable data to track progress across various metrics, like battle deaths per capita, to avoid availability bias.
Progress and Opportunity Cost
- While global issues exist, significant progress is happening, especially for the poorest.
- Faster progress is possible with sensible policies that foster innovation and economic growth.
Understanding Anti-Israel Sentiment
- Some of the anti-Israel sentiment stems from ignorance and an academic ethic of 'progress through struggle'.
- Other factors include foreign funding and a lack of awareness of the Western Enlightenment's contributions.
