The Wright Show

In this episode, guest Paul Bloom, a Yale psychology professor and moral thinker, dives into the tumultuous terrain of social media and its effect on discourse. He and Robert Wright discuss the latest buzz around Bluesky and Elon's free speech claims. They also dissect the peculiar spectacle of the Paul-Tyson boxing match and the implications of humiliation in modern culture. On a larger scale, they explore the AI arms race, the geopolitical stakes between the U.S. and China, and how AI is reshaping our society and its values.

Derek Davison, co-host of the American Prestige podcast and expert in national security, joins the discussion to tackle pressing political issues. The trio muses on whether Trump could adopt authoritarian methods while unpacking the implications of his military purges. They analyze the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk in politics, and critique Biden’s foreign policy team. With humor and insight, they also explore the troubling culture of rewarding political failure and the challenges liberalism faces in today's political landscape.

Samuel Hammond, a Senior Economist at the Foundation for American Innovation, discusses the intersection of AI and governance. He shares his position on the urgency of AI regulation amidst rapid advancements and the risks posed by autonomous systems. The conversation also tackles whether regulating AI may lead to authoritarianism. Further, Hammond explores the trustworthiness of figures like Trump and Elon Musk when it comes to AI, and the societal implications of deep fakes, urging for a balanced approach in navigating this complex landscape.

The podcast dives into Trump's evolving foreign policy, analyzing implications for global tensions and military engagements. The hosts reflect on the emotional rollercoaster of recent elections, while exploring shifts in political power dynamics, including a potential female chief of staff. There's a focus on mindful resistance and the psychology behind political tribalism. Listeners are also invited to reconnect through political discourse, sharing transformative experiences and fostering deeper conversations.

Paul Bloom, a renowned psychologist at the University of Toronto, offers keen insights on the recent American election and its repercussions from a Canadian perspective. The discussion dives into why Trump won, contemplating political endorsements and the critiques of Kamala Harris’ campaign strategies. Bloom sheds light on how right-wing populism is reshaping Canadian conservatism and the broader implications for immigration policies. With a blend of humor and seriousness, they navigate the absurdities of today’s political landscape.

In this insightful discussion, political commentator Mickey Kaus shares his expertise on the turbulent 2024 election landscape. He delves into the logic of voting for Trump while critiquing both Trump and Kamala Harris. Kaus explores the early voting dynamics and swing state challenges, alongside the rising tensions in the Israel-Iran conflict. The conversation also touches on the implications of Biden’s foreign policies and the impact of sex scandals on political narratives, offering a comprehensive view of the shifting political terrain.

Peter Hessler, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "Other Rivers: A Chinese Education," shares insights from his extensive experience in China. He discusses the evolving Sino-American relations and how grassroots sentiments differ from official narratives. Hessler reflects on significant changes in Chinese education and values between his teaching stints, noting the shift in respect for authority. He also touches on modern China's youth perspectives, religious pluralism, and the impact of socio-economic changes on aspirations.

The podcast dives into North Korea's military alliance with Russia and its potential effects on Ukraine. It critically examines Kamala Harris's political strategy amid polarization. A fascinating discussion reveals new lithium reserves crucial for sustainable EV production. The hosts share personal anecdotes about San Francisco's issues, including homelessness and AI impacts. Lastly, they tackle the alarming effects of AI on youth mental health, emphasizing the need for better regulations and ethical considerations in technology.

In this conversation, psychologist and author Paul Bloom tackles the complexities of modern politics and influential figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. They discuss how wealth shapes democracy and the implications of oligarchy on elections. Bloom humorously dissects political personas and their unusual traits, exploring the balance between empathy and success. The dialogue also touches on societal moral dilemmas, particularly in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing the need for understanding motivations behind extreme actions.

In this conversation, Andrew Day, a staff writer at the Non-Zero Newsletter, and Connor Echols, its managing editor, delve into the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East following the assassination of Hamas leader Yaya Senwar. They discuss U.S. military involvement and its potential repercussions, including risks with Iran. Additionally, the symbolism of martyrdom is explored, alongside the challenges of succession in Gaza's political scene. The duo examines Israeli military strategies and the implications for regional peace, painting a nuanced picture of ongoing tensions.