Robert Wright's Nonzero

Whose Toady is Bari Weiss? (Robert Wright & Paul Bloom)

Oct 10, 2025
In this discussion, Paul Bloom, a psychologist and author known for his work on culture and science, joins Robert Wright to delve into contemporary issues. They tackle Bari Weiss's rise as a media figure and her controversial reporting. The conversation shifts to the fragile situation in Gaza and the political implications for leaders like Netanyahu and Trump. Bloom and Wright also dissect the AI hype cycle, questioning the potential risks of superintelligent systems and their unpredictable goals, all while engaging in a spirited debate on free speech in today’s political climate.
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ANECDOTE

Bari Weiss 'Toady' Clip

  • Paul Bloom recounts the famous clip where Bari Weiss can't define the word "toady" on Joe Rogan and needs someone to look it up.
  • He uses the clip to question Weiss's rhetorical competence despite her prominence in media circles.
ANECDOTE

Weiss's Columbia Activism

  • Paul Bloom recounts Bari Weiss's early activism at Columbia as co-founder of "Columbians for Academic Freedom."
  • He highlights her campaign to discipline a pro-Palestinian faculty member as her first New York Times appearance.
INSIGHT

Quality Plus Ideological Fit

  • Robert Wright argues Weiss's rise to run CBS News reflects both her writing quality and ideological fit with Larry Ellison.
  • He suggests her ideology and sympathetic funders explain the promotion more than a conspiracy.
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