Special Supplementary Material: Two Psychologists, One Anthropologist, Three Beers
Mar 8, 2025
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Join renowned psychologist Mickey Inzlicht, known for his work in cognitive science and AI, as he enjoys a lively crossover chat. Mickey shares stories about his sabbatical in Japan and dives into the complexities of sensemaking, blending artistry and pragmatism. The discussion takes a humorous turn with critiques of academia, the absurdities of cannabis research, and the clash between social justice and scientific merit. Mickey also reflects on the role of empathic AI and the challenges of navigating interpersonal relationships in a divided world.
The playful camaraderie among the hosts reveals a blend of humor and vulnerability, enhancing their discussion's relatability and engagement.
A critical evaluation of cannabis research highlights the necessity for nuanced conversations over sensationalist narratives surrounding its societal impact.
Deep dives
Podcast Introductions and Personal Dynamics
The episode features a light-hearted banter among hosts Chris Kavner, Matthew Brown, and Mickey Inselix, showcasing their personalities and camaraderie. They discuss personal anecdotes, including one host's recent move to Japan and another's experience with a pricey new chair that eliminates squeaking noises during recording. This playful interaction highlights their dynamic, revealing a mix of teasing and genuine friendship. Additionally, underlying moments of vulnerability are introduced, such as references to cyberbullying and the pressures of podcasting.
Dissecting Cannabis Research
The conversation turns towards a critical examination of cannabis research, particularly a paper authored by Nora Volkow from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. One host argues that the paper’s conclusions—stating minimal impact on brain effects from prolonged cannabis use—reinforce the idea that cannabis can be harmless when viewed through a different lens. This discussion not only critiques the existing research but also revisits the complicated relationship between society and cannabis legislation. The hosts advocate for more nuanced discussions about cannabis that go beyond sensationalist headlines.
The Evolution of Sensemaking
A major theme in the episode is the evolution of 'sensemaking', introduced via a rebranding from the platform Rebel Wisdom to Kainos. The new approach advocates incorporating artistry alongside traditional intellectual discourse to address societal crises, like environmental collapse and institutional decay. The hosts express both skepticism and curiosity about this new development, debating its potential value and practicality. This philosophical discourse questions if creative expression can genuinely offer solutions to pressing global issues, emphasizing a blend of intellectual rigor with innovative thinking.
Critique of Academic Culture Wars
The hosts delve into the contentious debate surrounding academia, specifically addressing claims from a physicist that academia resembles a centrally planned economy akin to communism. They highlight the irony of this assertion, urging that variability and independence are inherent in academic pursuits rather than control from a centralized authority. This discourse critiques the tendency to generalize about academia based on specific grievances while discussing the broad spectrum of challenges facing scientific communities. The commentary underscores the need for a balanced view that acknowledges issues within academia while recognizing its complex structure and the efforts of dedicated individuals.
In this special quasi-crossover episode, we stare deeply into the abyss while enjoying a beverage with renowned psychologist and occasional podcast co-host, Mickey Inzlicht.
P.S. The Decoding of Naomi Klein is coming next week!
Two Psychologists, One Anthropologist, Three Beers
00:27 Introduction
05:57 Mickey's Sabbatical in Japan
12:13 Sensemaking 3.0
25:25 Francis Foster's Bizarre Podcast Roast
34:38 Sabine Hossenfelder thinks Academia is Communism
36:11 The Irony of YouTube Incentives
39:34 Proper Criticisms of Academia
43:28 Is Academia Centrally Planned?
46:24 Culture War Pandering
53:53 Entering the Matt-rix
55:00 In Bed with the Russians notices the Red Scare Wounded Bird Pose
01:00:03 On the etiquette of Replications
01:06:17 Academic Debates on the Effect of Culture on Visual Illusions: Joe Henrich vs. Amir & Firestone
01:11:18 The Legend of Captain Cook: Sahlins vs Obeyesekere
01:12:58 Ideas vs People: Sarah Haider, Colin Wright and an epidemic of hypocrisy
01:17:19 Admitting Mistakes and Research Integrity
01:24:38 Interpersonal Relationships vs. Adversarial Systems
01:33:24 Wastage in Academia
01:39:49 Elon Musk, Pregnancy, and Modern Cults
01:49:01 Signing Off
The full episode is available for Patreon subscribers (1hr 51 mins).
Inzlicht, M., Cameron, C. D., D’Cruz, J., & Bloom, P. (2024). In praise of empathic AI. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 28(2), 89-91.Chicago. And a summary article by Mickey!