Into the Impossible With Brian Keating cover image

Into the Impossible With Brian Keating

Giving the Devil His Due: In Defense of Free Speech w/ Michael Shermer

Aug 20, 2024
Michael Shermer, an author and speaker renowned for his advocacy of free speech and skepticism, dives into the vital importance of defending diverse viewpoints. He discusses the dangers of censorship, particularly in academic settings, and reflects on cancel culture's impact during the pandemic. The conversation touches on how stories shape societal norms and proposes unique governance models for Mars. Shermer also explores the balance between the value of life and safety measures in academia, revealing insights into the intertwining of science, spirituality, and existential purpose.
01:52:59

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Censorship poses a threat to freedom, as limiting one person's speech could lead to broader restrictions on everyone else's voices.
  • The internet democratizes information access, yet the overwhelming volume of content can lead to procrastination and hinder creativity.

Deep dives

The Nature of the Devil and Free Speech

The concept of the 'devil' is explored as anyone who opposes or disagrees with us, highlighting the necessity of granting free speech to all, even those whose views we find objectionable. This perspective emphasizes that imposing censorship laws can be dangerous, as they may eventually be turned against us when we find ourselves in a minority position. The podcast discusses how technological developments can sometimes be perceived as magical, suggesting that advancements can blur the lines of understanding. The importance of protecting free speech is underscored, especially when considering the historical context where dissenters have faced persecution.

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