Psychology In Seattle Podcast The Psychology of OJ Simpson (2016 Rerun)
Dec 30, 2025
Delve into the fascinating psychology behind O.J. Simpson's life and legacy. The discussion explores the cultural obsession with his case, including the impact of race and domestic violence. Kirk examines O.J.'s childhood hardships and early personality traits that might explain his later actions. Listeners learn about significant events like the infamous car chase and jury dynamics influenced by racial tensions. The analysis also touches on narcissism, entitlement, and the complexities of fame, offering a nuanced view of a controversial figure.
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Case As Cultural Mirror
- The O.J. Simpson case reveals how celebrity, race, and culture shaped public perception beyond the facts.
- Kirk Honda frames the podcast as exploring psychology, domestic violence, and race rather than just crime details.
Personal Memory Of The Chase
- Kirk Honda recalls watching the slow-motion car chase on a tiny TV as a 23-year-old with roommates in 1994.
- He remembers the polarized public opinion with two-thirds of blacks thinking O.J. was innocent and two-thirds of whites thinking he was guilty.
Evidence Viewed Through Racial Lenses
- Public interpretation of the same evidence split sharply along racial lines before and after the trial.
- Honda notes that rather than converging, opinions grew more polarized after evidence was presented.