Astral Codex Ten Podcast cover image

Astral Codex Ten Podcast

Links For November 2024

Nov 17, 2024
The discussion kicks off with fascinating burial customs, like issuing passports for the deceased in China, and advances in schizophrenia meds. It transitions to the philosophical influence of John Rawls on Marxist thought while tackling current AI dilemmas and geopolitical tensions. Themes of privilege are explored through Joseph Smith's prophecies and the isolation of Putin's children. The conversation also highlights the impact of experienced teachers on student performance and contrasts various personality tests, all while examining cultural dynamics and inequalities.
40:28

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The ancient Chinese practice of burying individuals with official IDs for the afterlife underscores deep cultural beliefs about death and recognition.
  • A newly approved schizophrenia medication targeting muscarinic receptors shows promise in addressing negative symptoms while potentially reducing side effects commonly associated with traditional treatments.

Deep dives

Ancient Practices of Passport Rituals

During the late Warring States period in ancient China, it was common for individuals to be buried with an official ID, serving as a passport for entry into the underworld. This practice reflects the importance of proper identification and recognition in the afterlife, highlighting cultural beliefs surrounding death and the journey that follows. These ancient passports, often inscribed with details of the deceased's life, indicate the rituals and traditions that societies have created to ensure safe passage into the next realm. This fascinating insight reveals the unique customs related to death that have persisted in various cultures over time.

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