Behavioral Grooves Podcast

Rethinking Behavioral Science | Adam Mastroianni

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.

01:12:22

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Episode guests

Adam Mastroianni

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The field of psychology needs a paradigm shift to make revolutionary advancements and break free from the optimization for normal science.

Research findings in psychology should be applied with caution, considering specific contexts and individual differences instead of overgeneralizing.

Psychology should encourage diverse and unconventional research approaches to promote innovation and avoid relying solely on established paradigms.

Deep dives

The need for a paradigm shift in psychology

Adam Monfsterioni advocates for a paradigm shift in psychology, suggesting that the field has been stuck in a proto-paradigm, not making significant progress in the past 30 years. He emphasizes the importance of turning psychology into a paradigmatic science, similar to how the periodic table organized chemistry or the shift from Aristotelian physics to modern physics. Adam argues that the intense competition for resources and the optimization for normal science hinder the potential for revolutionary and groundbreaking advancements in psychological research.

Introduction

2min

The Click and Clack of Behavioral Science

13min

The Progress and Limitations of Behavioral Science

22min

Questioning Scientific Certainty

12min

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

4min

Exploring Unique Perspectives and the Potential for Contribution

2min

The Importance of Different Perspectives in the Scientific Community

8min

The Importance of Paradigm Shifts in Behavioral Science

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/