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EconTalk

Michael Easter on Excess, Moderation, and the Scarcity Brain

Oct 30, 2023
01:08:05
Snipd AI
Michael Easter discusses the challenges of moderation and the impact of the scarcity brain in our modern world. He explores how our evolutionary history influences our behaviors and preferences. The podcast delves into the concept of the scarcity loop and its influence on human behavior, including gambling and social media engagement. It also examines the role of dopamine in seeking pleasure and the parallels between fishing, slot machines, and compulsive behavior. The impact of digital media on sports and our attention is discussed, along with excessive buying and the search for happiness.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Corporations and technology exploit the scarcity brain, making it difficult for us to moderate consumption and pushing us toward excessive behaviors.
  • The scarcity loop, consisting of opportunity, unpredictable rewards, and quick repeatability, drives compulsive behaviors in various aspects of our lives.

Deep dives

The Scarcity Brain and the Power of Technology

The podcast explores the concept of the scarcity brain, which refers to the feeling that we can never get enough. It delves into how corporations and technology have exploited this mindset, making it harder for us to moderate our consumption and pushing us toward excessive behaviors. The podcast highlights how developments like slot machines in the gambling industry have leveraged the scarcity brain by making the rewards unpredictable and increasing the speed of gambling. It also discusses how social media, dating apps, and even the financial system use similar techniques to keep us engaged and seeking more.

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