Chris Kavanagh

In this discussion, Chris Kavanagh, an anthropologist at Oxford, dives into the world of secular gurus, illustrating how social media has heightened their impact. He examines the distinctions between these modern influencers and traditional intellectuals, highlighting their compelling characteristics. The conversation also touches on the role of experts during the pandemic, their expanded influence, and the dangers of mistaking confidence for knowledge. Kavanagh urges for open-mindedness to better navigate beliefs and viewpoints within our polarized society.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Kavanagh, an anthropologist and co-host of Decoding the Gurus, teams up with psychologist Matt Browne to dissect the role of new media personalities. They tackle the ethics of platforming controversial figures like Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson, highlighting the balance between entertainment and evidence-based dialogue. The trio also explores the complexities of public discourse across cultures and critiques the credibility of mainstream media. Expect humor and serious insights in this thought-provoking conversation!

Discussions include metaethics, moral realism, free will vs determinism, evolutionary basis of ethics, objective moral truths, ethical pluralism, reducing suffering, alien societies' views on suffering, socially constructed knowledge, ethical obligations within democracies, expanding moral community, and expressing gratitude for guest and support for the show.