Surfing The Discourse

Greetings ye surfers of The Discourse!If podcasts were scented, today’s episode would exude a sweet, though somewhat mildewed musk, courtesy of the main subject of discussion: Mr Elon.Elon Musk is a noted memer and rascal entrepreneur, famed for his erratic stewardship of several attention-grabbing companies, and for his many blundering and awkward forays onto the public stage as a speaker, tweeter, pundit, and podcaster.In this episode, we’ll pick through Elon’s recent appearances on the Joe Rogan and Lex Fridman podcasts, and take a magnifying glass to his multifarious hot-takes, to see whether he lives up to his (erstwhile) reputation as a mega-genius.The episode covers a wide range of topics, from consciousness and free will, to Ukraine, Covid, and the Twitter Files. So what are we waiting for? Let’s get Musky!LinksElon on Joe Roganhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7edwvm2c6Ieuzun4xtFYCJElon on Lex Fridmanhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN3KPFbWCy8Relevant Twitter Files Postshttps://twitter.com/davidzweig/status/1607378386338340867Debunking Musk on Ventilatorshttps://healthfeedback.org/claimreview/elon-musk-claim-ventilators-killed-covid-patients-confuses-correlation-causation/

Welcome, Discourse Surfers! In this episode, we peer behind the curtain that conceals Konstantin Kisin, and let me tell you, there’ll be no Kisin up to the fellow here. While he exhibits all the superficial trimmings of a well-groomed thinker, upon closer inspection we find him rather epistemically-bedraggled - at least, on certain topics. He seems to be mid-slide on that slippery slope towards the pits of Heterodox Land, and as a result he’s a predictably murky thinker on any topic that even mentions the word ‘institution’. Meanwhile, we take a closer look at Chris Williamson, a man with a prodigious memory for quotes, and a penchant for delivering arm-chair diagnoses of the human condition (the quality of which are to be determined in this episode). Finally, we’ll try to get to grips with some of Joe Rogan’s homespun philosophy – ideas that are well-worn, if sometimes poorly thought-out. So in all, a bit of a hodgepodge for us to wade through; but I assure you, the lack of cohesiveness is no barrier to enjoyment or edification. So strap in, and enjoy! Some citations (I really ought to get better at including these!) EATR Robot: https://www.robotictechnologyinc.com/images/upload/file/Cyclone%20Power%20Press%20Release%20EATR%20Rumors%20Final%2016%20July%2009.pdf Trust in Vaccines: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/05/16/health/childhood-vaccines-trust-pew-survey/index.html Do Conspiracy theories efficiently signal coalition membership? https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0265211

Explore the different viewpoints on the Ukraine war, including blaming the West and downplaying Russia's role. Analyze the narratives surrounding NATO's intentions and the influence of John Mearsheimer. Delve into Russia's invasion motives and alternative perspectives. Discuss the events leading to the Ukrainian political crisis and refute conspiracy theories. Examine Tulsi Gabbard's populism and views on funding the war. Explore the decline of war and criticism of nuclear war preparedness. Critique the military-industrial complex and Candace Owens' views on Putin. Dive into various narratives surrounding the Ukraine war, including the moral and geopolitical case for supporting Ukraine.

Ben Shapiro, Dave Rubin, Andrew Tate, and Steven Crowder discuss the right-wing reactions to the Russell Brand scandal. They critique weak arguments, analyze media bias, and question the timing of the attack on Brand. They explore the presence of evidence, burden of proof, and the relevance of his reputation. The episode examines coordinated attacks and the biased treatment of politicians in the media.

Guest Eric Weinstein discusses the misbehavior of Jeffrey Epstein, the malice of the mainstream media, and the urgent need for us to escape our doomed planet. The podcast covers topics like Epstein as a construct for control, social media and intelligence agencies, lack of hearings, information overload as a tactic, power and leaving Earth, transcendence in music, and analyzing Weinstein's intellectual abilities and arguments.

Gad Saad's recent controversy sparks intriguing discussions about criticism and self-perception. A light dissection of Lex Fridman and Andrew Huberman’s dynamic reveals quirky insights, including Huberman's intriguing takes on unconscious motives. With a humorous critique of Huberman’s epistemic boundaries, topics like morning meditation routines and unique hobbies come into play. Lex’s anecdotes about spending a day with Elon Musk add star power, while the duo’s flattery builds a curious rapport. Ultimately, the conversation balances intellect with humor.

In this intriguing discussion, Jordan Peterson—clinical psychologist and public intellectual—faces scrutiny through his recent chats with Russell Brand and Bill Maher. The conversation dives into Peterson's unique metaphors, like the dark tetrad villain concept, and his eclectic mix of biblical narratives and Disney references. Jack highlights the absurdity and humor in Peterson's logic, while also unpacking his views on online interactions being manipulated by narcissists. Whether a fan or critic, listeners are sure to enjoy the blend of critique and insight!

Gad Saad - anti-woke crusader; political firebrand; evolutionary virtuoso; shameless self-promoter - he's a man of many hats.. actually, about 4 or 5 hats, as will become clear in this episode.This is Gad's umpteenth appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, and there's some indication that, when it comes to Gad's 'self-promoting' hat, Joe's patience is starting to wear thin.In this episode I delve into the minds and ideas of both Joe and Gad, to see whether any of what they're saying checks out. I argue that much of it does not - but you be the judge!

Andrew Tate, a controversial social-media figure and former kickboxer, dives deep into his recent interview with Tucker Carlson. Tate discusses his 'matrix' conspiracy theory, linking it to societal issues like depression and race. He attributes declining happiness and birth rates to 'collapsing masculinity,' a claim that is challenged for its oversimplification. Misuse of scientific concepts in philosophy is noted, alongside legal allegations against him. Ultimately, Tate's self-help insights clash with his lack of rigorous reasoning.