PsycHacks Episode 589: The female idol (the corruption of dating)
8 snips
Jan 19, 2026 Modern dating has transformed women into idols and men into devoted worshipers. This dynamic mirrors ancient sacrificial practices, where men invest time and resources in courtship. Discussions reveal how pedestalization creates unrealistic expectations, leading to prolonged sacrifices. Low-effort dates are seen as offensive, hinting at a flawed valuation of partners. The podcast argues that this idol-like dating corrupts relationships, wasting resources that could be better spent on genuine connections.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Dating As Modern Idol Worship
- Orion Taraban reframes idol worship as a model for modern behaviors where people offer valuable goods to secure blessings.
- This ritual involves magical thinking: sacrifice is believed to transubstantiate value into favor without a direct transaction.
Courtship Framed As Sacrifice
- Taraban argues initial courtship mirrors sacrifice: men give time, money, and effort to signal that women aren't prostitutes.
- The sacrifice communicates esteem rather than a direct transaction for sex or affection.
Women As Active Idols
- Taraban notes women sometimes occupy the pedestal and expect sacrifices as a precondition for moving forward.
- When blessings (sex/relationship) remain discretionary, the worship dynamic continues and favors the woman.
