Michele Gelfand, a renowned professor of psychology and author of "Rulemakers, Rule Breakers," dives into the intriguing dynamics of cultural norms. She discusses the stark differences between tight and loose cultures and their effect on behaviors and politics, particularly during the COVID pandemic. Gelfand also explores the delicate balance between order and individual freedom, revealing how societal expectations shape personal choices. The conversation touches on the impact of these norms on political polarization and the psychological implications of cultural expectations.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Culture Shock and Personal Transformation
Michelle Gelfand's worldview changed after a semester abroad, realizing the impact of culture.
This led her to explore different cultures, like working on a kibbutz, and study cross-cultural psychology.
insights INSIGHT
Culture as an Operating System
Culture acts as an invisible operating system shaping human behavior and values.
Social norms, often implicit, govern interactions and reactions more than individual psychology.
insights INSIGHT
Social Norms and Cultural Tightness/Looseness
Social norms are unwritten rules that help societies and groups function and coordinate behavior.
Cultures vary in how strictly they adhere to norms, creating "tight" and "loose" societies.
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The Histories by Herodotus is a foundational work in Western historical literature. It chronicles the Greco-Persian Wars (499–479 BCE) and provides a comprehensive background on the rise and organization of the Persian Empire. The work is divided into nine books, each named after one of the Muses. Herodotus describes the conflicts between the Greeks and Persians, including key battles such as Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis, Plataea, and Mycale. He also delves into the cultural, ethnographical, geographical, and historiographical aspects of the civilizations involved, offering a rich tapestry of historical and mythological narratives. Despite some criticisms for including legendary accounts, much of Herodotus's work has been validated by modern historians and archaeologists[1][2][3].
Asylum
William Seabrook
William Seabrook's "Asylum" is a compelling memoir detailing his experiences with alcoholism and his treatment in an insane asylum in the 1930s. The book offers a raw and unflinching account of his struggles with addiction and his journey toward recovery. Seabrook's vivid descriptions and introspective reflections provide a powerful insight into the challenges of addiction and the complexities of mental health. The book's enduring relevance lies in its honest portrayal of addiction and its exploration of the human capacity for self-destruction and redemption. It remains a significant work in the literature of addiction and recovery.
Rule Breakers and Rule Makers
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David Gardner
In "Rule Breakers and Rule Makers," David Gardner outlines his investment philosophy centered around identifying and holding disruptive companies for the long term. He details the characteristics he looks for in 'Rule Breaker' stocks, emphasizing factors like strong management, sustainable competitive advantages, and significant consumer appeal. The book also includes case studies of his successful and unsuccessful investments, illustrating the principles of his strategy. Gardner's approach prioritizes identifying companies poised for significant growth, even if they appear overvalued in the short term. The book serves as a guide for investors seeking to replicate his long-term success.
The Singapore Story
Lee Kuan Yew
In this memoir, Lee Kuan Yew recounts the significant moments in Singapore's history, including his own experiences during the Japanese occupation, his education in England, and his political career. The book covers his early life, the formation of the People's Action Party, the alliance and subsequent break with the communists, and the eventual independence of Singapore on 9 August 1965. It provides a vivid picture of Lee's political skill and tenacity in shaping Singapore's future through his dealings with various political leaders and his governance strategies[1][4][5].
Interaction ritual
Erving Goffman
Erving Goffman's 'Interaction Ritual: Essays on Face-to-Face Behavior' is a seminal work that examines the intricacies of social interaction. The book consists of six essays that delve into concepts such as 'face-work', deference, and social organization, providing insights into how individuals manage their social identities during interactions. Goffman's work emphasizes the importance of maintaining social order through rituals and mutual respect in face-to-face encounters.
Sam Harris speaks with Michele Gelfand about the difference between tight and loose cultures. They discuss the primacy of cultural norms in governing human behavior, the trade-offs between order and freedom, conservatism vs liberalism, sensitivity to threat, scarcity, the COVID pandemic, the Jeffrey Toobin affair, political polarization, the problem of extreme stereotypes, and other topics.
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