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John S. Wentworth

Writer and LessWrong contributor; author of the essay narrated in this episode discussing dominance as a practical solution to akrasia.

Top 3 podcasts with John S. Wentworth

Ranked by the Snipd community
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9 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 12min

“Human Values ≠ Goodness” by johnswentworth

John S. Wentworth, a contributor to LessWrong and an expert on rationality and values, dives into the complex relationship between human values and the concept of goodness. He argues that our personal values resonate as a 'yumminess' felt in our minds, influenced more by cultural messages than by conscious choice. Wentworth emphasizes the importance of loving connections in shaping these values while cautioning against the blind acceptance of societal norms, advocating for a thoughtful balance in pursuing what truly fulfills us.
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Nov 20, 2025 • 6min

“What Is The Basin Of Convergence For Kelly Betting?” by johnswentworth

Join John S. Wentworth, a decision theory expert, as he dives into the intricacies of Kelly betting. He explains the mathematical underpinnings of independent bets and how log returns adhere to the Central Limit Theorem. Wentworth contrasts utility functions dominated by typical versus tail outcomes, showcasing how different strategies lead to varied risks. He also outlines conditions where Kelly betting fails and presents real-world examples of these failures, making complex theories accessible and engaging.
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Nov 18, 2025 • 8min

“Status Is The Game Of The Losers’ Bracket” by johnswentworth

John S. Wentworth, a writer and LessWrong contributor, explores the dynamics of status and success. He contrasts the paths to wealth, highlighting how founders, not corporate climbers, dominate the Forbes list. Discussing winner's and loser's brackets, he warns against mistaking status games for effective strategy, using college admissions and tech interviews as examples. Wentworth also argues that true power comes from unique knowledge rather than political maneuvering, making a compelling case for reevaluating our societal competition.

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