Philosophy For Our Times Perversity and the limits of rational | Psychologist Paul Bloom
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Dec 30, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, psychologist Paul Bloom, known for his insights on morality and empathy, explores the interplay between rationality and perversity. He defines perversity using Augustine's pear theft, illustrating acts motivated by the thrill of wrongdoing. Bloom argues that while rationality fosters better moral decisions, a hint of perversity can spark creativity and interest in relationships. He also discusses the strategic value of irrationality in politics and promotes the idea of challenging one's reasoning through public debate for greater authenticity.
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Perversity As Human Expression
- Perversity is doing something seemingly bad, silly, or unreasonable for its own sake.
- Paul Bloom says small acts of perversity can express autonomy and show humanity beyond predictable rational behavior.
Strategic Value Of Calculated Irrationality
- Irrational or 'madman' behaviour can be strategically powerful because it thwarts normal countermeasures.
- Bloom uses diplomacy and contemporary politics to show irrationality can extract concessions despite costs.
Ice Cream Bite Story
- Bloom collects stories of micro-perverse acts to illustrate harmless playfulness.
- His favorite: a man unexpectedly bites his friend's ice cream to spark surprise and fun.
