Rethinking Behavioral Science | Adam Mastroianni

7 snips

Dec 4, 2023

Researcher Adam Mastroianni challenges the status quo of behavioral science, discussing the fraudulent study controversy, lack of groundbreaking discoveries, and the need for a paradigm shift. They also question the effectiveness of flossing and explore the importance of different perspectives in science and academia. This thought-provoking conversation encourages fresh thinking and innovation.

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Introduction

00:00 • 2min

The Click and Clack of Behavioral Science

01:33 • 13min

The Progress and Limitations of Behavioral Science

14:41 • 22min

Questioning Scientific Certainty

36:31 • 12min

Reflections on a Song, Stranded on a Deserted Island, and Musical Preferences

48:48 • 4min

Exploring Unique Perspectives and the Potential for Contribution

52:31 • 2min

The Importance of Different Perspectives in the Scientific Community

54:41 • 8min

The Importance of Paradigm Shifts in Behavioral Science

01:02:13 • 10min

While Tim finds himself confined to a plane, Kurt engages in a captivating one-on-one session with researcher Adam Mastroianni. Together, they delve into the intriguing world of behavioral science, aiming to unveil the concealed truths behind the notorious Big Dentist conspiracy urging everyone to floss.

However, the episode takes an unexpected turn as Kurt and Adam embark on a thought-provoking exploration of the past, present, and future of behavioral science. From a history tainted with fraudulent studies to a present that seems tepid in terms of groundbreaking discoveries, the duo contemplates what lies ahead. Do we dare to take risks, or is maintaining the status quo the safer route? Moreover, does the current academic system truly foster risk-taking?

Join us for a conversation that challenges assumptions, sparks innovation, and confronts the stigma surrounding the belief that flossing is the sole path to dental health. Tune in as we navigate the future of behavioral science, encouraging a fresh perspective on academia and the pursuit of knowledge.

Topics

(4:09) Intro and Speed Round

(8:19) When should we stop talking?

(11:47) Does the fact that a study was found fraudulent matter?

(16:18) Are we out of groundbreaking discoveries?

(22:03) The limitations in current research and the need for a paradigm shift

(27:28) Shifting mindset in scientific research

(36:39) Flossing and the importance of context

(48:35) Research insights and desert island music

(52:19) Grooving session: Science, academia, and the importance of new ideas

Links

Experimental History (Blog) https://experimentalhistory.wordpress.com/

"Do Conversations End When People Want Them To?" https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0956797617749596

The Cochrane Collaboration Meta-analysis on Flossing https://www.cochrane.org/CD011146/ORAL_flossing-reduce-gingivitis-and-plaque

Rory Sutherland's Perspective on Choice https://www.ted.com/talks/rory_sutherland_life_lessons_from_an_ad_man/transcript

Musical Links

Baz Luhrmann "Everybody's Free to Wear Sunscreen" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTJ7AzBIJoI

They Might Be Giants "Hot Dog!" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoavHX75s_E

Talking Heads "Psycho Killer" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eauZzwt8Ci8