Secret #10: Subtract with Leidy Klotz

In this episode, we dive into the theme of subtraction with special guest, Leidy Klotz. Leidy discusses the difficulty of changing beliefs when confronted with conflicting evidence, sharing intriguing insights from a psychology study involving a doomsday cult. The conversation also explores the power of analogies in reshaping our mental models and understanding.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we reveal the power of subtraction in changing beliefs, decluttering our lives, and seeking simplicity amidst the chaos.

Highlights:

• Difficulty of changing beliefs when faced with conflicting evidence
• Importance of analogies in changing beliefs
• Reflection on loss aversion and the importance of considering meaning and desired outcome before subtracting
• The role of biology and the desire to acquire things for survival
• The association of mental health with feeling overwhelmed and struggling with unhelpful thoughts and behaviors
• Tendency to add more tasks or responsibilities in times of stress instead of simplifying
• Cognitive load and the influence on relying on heuristics

About Leidy Klotz

Leidy Klotz studies the science of design, which, he reminds us, is something we all do every day. His research has appeared in both Nature and Science and his debut popular science book, Subtract, is among the most influential published in 2021 and is already on all-time reading lists for both design and behavioral science.

A professor at the University of Virginia, Leidy has authored more than 80 original research articles and secured more than $10 million dollars in competitive funding to support his and others’ work in this area. Recognized nationally as a professor who inspires, Leidy has taught thousands of students, including 21 Ph.D. advisees, whose designing and teaching shapes the world. Leidy's scholarship benefits from diversity and inclusion as more than three quarters of his advisees are from groups underrepresented in their respective fields.

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