Worklife with Adam Grant

What animal intelligence reveals about human stupidity with Justin Gregg

Mar 7, 2023

In this engaging conversation, Justin Gregg, an expert in animal cognition and author of "If Nietzsche Were a Narwhal," explores the fascinating minds of dolphins and other creatures. He highlights their unique cognitive abilities, such as sleeping with half their brain. The discussion delves into the nuances of animal versus human intelligence, questioning the value of 'how' versus 'why' in understanding curiosity and ethics. Justin also reflects on how insights from the animal world can help us navigate our own existential challenges.

39:27

Creator website

Episode guests

Justin Gregg

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Is General Intelligence a Good Idea?

01:36

The Problem with Intelligence

00:51

Intro

4min

The Dual Nature of Intelligence

17min

Exploring Human Intelligence: The Role of Curiosity and Questioning

5min

The Power of 'Why' Questions

16min

Life Lessons from Sports: Connections and Reflections

2min

The Transition from Athletic Glory to Retirement

2min

Justin Gregg is an animal cognition expert -- he studies what goes on inside the heads of other creatures, and what that means for us. He’s a captivating science writer: one of his specialties is explaining whether dolphins are actually smart, and his most recent book is “If Nietzsche Were a Narwhal.” In an expansive conversation, Justin and Adam discuss what makes the human mind unique, muse over the life lessons we might learn from the animal world, and debate whether or not, when it comes to consciousness, ignorance is really bliss. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.