Revisionist History

The Bear Was Poked With Maria Konnikova

14 snips
Nov 2, 2023
Maria Konnikova, a psychologist and writer, returns to delve into America's complex relationship with firearms. She tackles the impact of identity politics and socioeconomic disparities on gun violence. The conversation touches on moral hazards in public policy and technology, revealing how these can exacerbate societal issues. Additionally, they humorously dissect the cultural relevance of Matt Dillon while dissecting listener feedback on gun control. Ultimately, the discussion strives for a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing America's gun problem.
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ANECDOTE

Gladwell Meets Dillon

  • Malcolm Gladwell recounts a pleasant encounter with actor Matt Dillon.
  • He highlights Dillon's charm and notes a resemblance to the fictional Matt Dillon of Gunsmoke.
INSIGHT

Poking the Bear

  • Gladwell intentionally provoked listeners by challenging common gun control arguments.
  • He used right-wing arguments to reach a liberal conclusion, causing confusion and strong reactions.
INSIGHT

Assault Rifles vs. Handguns

  • Gladwell argues that assault rifle bans are ineffective because they target cosmetic features, not lethality.
  • He highlights an ER doctor's finding that handguns are more lethal in mass shootings than assault rifles due to their practicality.
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