Psychologist and author Paul Bloom joins Very Bad Wizards to discuss the Coen Brothers' film 'A Serious Man'. They explore themes of uncertainty and inaction, the portrayal of Jews in the movie, and the desire for order and certainty. They also touch on subjects like observational research in psychology, responsible journalism, and the value of investigative journalism. Plus, they discuss a scene from the movie, a new sponsor, and the charity organization Givewell.
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Quick takeaways
The movie 'A Serious Man' explores the theme of uncertainty and the frustration of not getting answers.
The contrast between inaction and certainty is a central theme in the film, highlighting different characters' responses to uncertainty.
Mathematics represents a source of certainty and control for the main character, providing comfort amidst the uncertainty in his life.
Deep dives
The Dibbuk Scene and Uncertainty
The movie begins with a scene where a man encounters a rabbi who turns out to be a Dibbuk, a demonic Jewish spirit. This scene sets the tone for the movie, which is about uncertainty and the lack of answers. The man's uncertainty about whether the encounter was with a real Dibbuk or not mirrors the main character's uncertainty throughout the movie. The theme of uncertainty and the frustration of not getting answers is a recurring element in the film.
Larry's Inaction and the Wife's Certainty
The movie explores the theme of inaction versus certainty. Larry, the main character, is constantly indecisive, unsure of how to react to the challenges in his life. In contrast, his wife acts assertively and with certainty, even when the outcome is uncertain. This contrast is highlighted by various characters and situations throughout the movie. The film raises questions about the value of certainty versus inaction and how different characters respond to uncertainty.
The Math and the Search for Certainty
Mathematics is a recurring theme throughout the film and represents a source of certainty for Larry. He finds comfort and joy in mathematics, as it provides clear answers and a sense of control. In contrast, the rest of his life is filled with uncertainty and unanswered questions. The film uses mathematics to symbolize the search for certainty in an uncertain world.
The Connection Between Larry's Friend and Larry's Uncertainty
Larry's friend, Si, represents the opposite of Larry's character. Si is certain and assertive, while Larry is indecisive and unsure. Si's actions and behaviors highlight Larry's struggles with uncertainty and his inability to take decisive action. Si acts as a reminder of Larry's internal conflict and the contrast between their personalities adds tension to the narrative.
The Theme of Mathematics and Probability
The podcast explores the theme of mathematics and probability, particularly through the character Arthur using math for gambling and Larry's discomfort with uncertainty.
The Absurdity of Life and Unanswerable Questions
The podcast discusses the theme of existential absurdity and the inability to find answers to life's unanswerable questions. It explores this through the story of the dentist finding Hebrew letters in a patient's teeth, which leads nowhere, and the dismissal of uncertainty by the third rabbi.
VBW favorite Paul Bloom takes a short break from his Sam Harris duties to help us break down the Coen Brothers' ode to uncertainty, A Serious Man. Does inaction have consequences? Can you understand the cat but not the math? Why are there Hebrew letters carved into the back of a goy's teeth? Dybbuk or no Dybbuk? Why does God make us feel the questions if he’s not gonna give us any answers?
Plus, Paul defends the psych establishment against critiques from the podcast peons at Two Psychologists Four Beers and Very Bad Wizards.