Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg

Alyssa Vance, an AI systems engineer and entrepreneur, dives deep into intriguing topics about the economy and technology. She likens economic growth to differential equations, pondering its potential limits. The conversation shifts to the thrilling world of genetic engineering, including DIY experiments, and the ethical dilemmas that arise. Vance also sheds light on AI misconceptions, stressing the distinct differences between AI and human cognition. Lastly, she tackles the complexities of trust in digital communities and the pervasive impact of misinformation on society.

Kaj Sotala, an emotion coach and AI researcher, dives into the fascinating concept of the mind as a collection of sub-agents instead of a single rational entity. He discusses the global workspace theory of consciousness and how it relates to meditation and multitasking. The conversation explores how conflicting beliefs shape our decisions and self-perception, emphasizing personal growth through understanding subconscious influences. Transformational therapy techniques are also examined, highlighting their role in emotional resolution and growth.

Tom Chivers, a freelance science writer and science editor at UnHerd.com, explores the intriguing distinctions between 'wambs' and 'nerds'. He discusses how emotional expression influences social dynamics and ethical reasoning, especially regarding challenging topics like superintelligence. Chivers also sheds light on navigating miscommunications between rationalists and journalists, the role of beliefs in discussions, and innovative approaches for engaging in sensitive conversations. His insightful take on these communities reveals the complexities of human interaction and understanding.

Tom Quisel, CTO at Grindr and former CTO at OkCupid, shares insights into the online dating landscape. He discusses differences in messaging behaviors between men and women and the challenges algorithms face in promoting equitable matches. Quisel highlights how historical reproductive strategies influence partner selection and the importance of user safety perceptions. He also explores leadership dynamics, emphasizing servant leadership and the value of curiosity in management. Plus, they venture into the intriguing question of extraterrestrial life and our approach to it.

Is it okay for anyone to have opinions about marginalized communities even if they're not a part of those communities? Do people in marginalized groups have special knowledge (especially tacit knowledge) about their groups that can't be known or experienced from the outside? To what extent can we know and empathize with others' experiences regardless of differences in race, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, etc.? Do oppression and discrimination tend to be caused more by active bigotry or by mere lack of care and awareness? What information (if any) does intersectionality fail to capture about people? Is describing someone intersectionally an end in itself, or is it just a way of correcting (or over-correcting) for the suppression of marginalized voices? Should ideas be discussed absent their context or implications (see: decoupling norms vs. contextualizing norms)? To what extent should we focus on individuals versus groups when attempting to fix inequities? Are individuals or groups responsible for redressing the atrocities of their ancestors? Should people be "cancelled" for their views (including their past views, even if their current views are different)? To what extent is the shifting of moral ground around social justice issues unpredictable and/or disorienting? How can democratic societies balance the need to debate difficult ideas with the risk of giving reprehensible ideas a platform? Should rules about offensiveness be enforced from the top down (e.g., from a government, a school administration, a company's board of directors, or even parents)? Is offense only "in the eye of the beholder"?Amber Dawn is an itinerant UChicago PhD student working on Plato and Lucretius. She is interested in philosophy, emotions, mental health and therapy, effective altruism, ethics, gender, sex, anarchism, and social justice. You can find more about Amber on Facebook, Twitter, or Medium, or you can email her at contemplatonist@gmail.com.Holly Elmore is an effective altruist with a background in evolutionary biology. After organizing EA groups at Harvard throughout her PhD, she left academia and conducts EA-style wild animal welfare research. She witnessed the rise of wokism from within American universities, and has followed developments in social justice culture both as an adversary and an interested amateur sociologist. You can find more about her at her blog.Amber and Holly would like for us to remind you that the views they express in this conversation are their own and do not reflect the views held by their employers.StaffSpencer Greenberg — Host / DirectorJosh Castle — ProducerRyan Kessler — Audio EngineerUri Bram — FactotumMusicBroke for FreeJosh WoodwardLee RosevereQuiet Music for Tiny Robotswowamusiczapsplat.comAffiliatesClearer ThinkingGuidedTrackMind EasePositlyUpLift[Read more]

Tyler Cowen, Holbert L. Harris Chair of Economics at George Mason University, discusses his three laws and twelve rules that challenge conventional economic wisdom. He argues that traditional views on real interest rates may be flawed and delves into the disconnect in macroeconomic theories. Cowen emphasizes the importance of engaging with opposing viewpoints for personal growth and explores the psychological dynamics of offense in social media. He also highlights the power of mentorship and the potential for transformation in developing moldable minds.

Max Marty, an entrepreneur and futurist building the cryonics community, dives into the world of cryonics and its potential for immortality. He discusses the process of freezing bodies post-mortem and the philosophical implications of possibly reversing death. Marty explores the societal perceptions surrounding cryonics, the financial strategies like life insurance to fund preservation, and the remarkable technological advancements needed for a successful revival. He also delves into identity challenges, raising questions on whether revived individuals would truly be the same.

Eben Pagan, a successful entrepreneur and technology investor, dives into the complexities of cognitive development and the pre/trans fallacy. He explores how developmental stages shape our understanding and emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences in entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights coaching as a critical meta-skill for personal growth, advocating for the use of open-ended questions to unlock insights. Pagan also tackles issues of tribalism and empathy, stressing the need to appreciate diverse perspectives in personal and professional contexts.

David Denkenberger, an expert in global catastrophic risks and assistant professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, delves into survival strategies for humanity amidst potential disasters. He discusses the vulnerabilities of food systems during crises like nuclear winters, highlighting resilient food sources such as mushrooms and seaweed. The conversation touches on the need for government investment and effective communication about risks. Denkenberger emphasizes cooperation in disaster scenarios and shares insights on ensuring food security and societal resilience.

Anna Paley, a behavioral scientist and marketing professor at Tilburg University, discusses the delicate balance between focusing on strengths and weaknesses for success. She explores how harsh self-criticism often clouds our inner dialogue and emphasizes the value of self-compassion. The conversation touches on how embracing internal conflicts, recognizing the duality of pain and pleasure, and understanding the psychological nuances of fear can enhance personal growth. Paley also highlights the interplay of rationality and intuition in decision-making, urging a joyful embrace of life's complexities.