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The Nocturnists

The Power of Pausing in Uncertainty with Maggie Jackson

May 23, 2024
Maggie Jackson, an award-winning author and journalist, discusses her book "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure." She dives into the neuroscience of uncertainty, revealing how it affects decision-making in medical contexts, particularly under pressure. Maggie emphasizes the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and slowing down to enhance patient care. She also touches on personal growth through embracing uncertainty, including her newfound love for ocean swimming as a way to navigate life's unpredictabilities.
38:32

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Understanding the distinction between aleatory and epistemic uncertainty is vital for coping with doubt, particularly in high-stakes medical environments.
  • Embracing uncertainty enhances cognitive function and responsiveness, encouraging professionals to be proactive learners in adapting to challenges.

Deep dives

Understanding Types of Uncertainty

Uncertainty can be categorized into two main types: aleatory and epistemic uncertainty. Aleatory uncertainty refers to the randomness and unpredictability of events that cannot be controlled, while epistemic uncertainty is related to our psychological response to the unknown and reflects the limits of our knowledge. This distinction gains importance in understanding how individuals cope with uncertainty, especially in fields like medicine where stakes are high. Acknowledging these types allows for a deeper exploration of how professionals, particularly in healthcare, navigate situations filled with doubt, aiming to harness the discomfort rather than shy away from it.

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