A whimsical holiday gathering kicks off with festive traditions and cocktail mixing, setting a light-hearted tone. As humor flows, the awkwardness around discussing vaccine misinformation is playfully tackled, emphasizing the urgency to counteract harmful myths. Topics swirl from navigating personal beliefs amid conspiracy theories to finding common ground in relationships. The joy of gaming, especially through the lens of the Shin Megami Tensei series, enriches the discussions, reminding listeners of the importance of empathy and constructive dialogue during the season.

Explore the enduring legacy of Carl Sagan and his impact on science education and critical thinking. Reflect on the challenges of scientific literacy in a world filled with superstition. Delve into the complex relationship between science, technology, and religion, especially in the context of space exploration. Consider the definition of self-worth and humanity's responsibilities towards global issues. Finally, grasp the intricacies of Earth's climate and the significance of compassion as we ponder our place in the universe.

Explore the unsettling portrayals of God in the Old Testament that challenge traditional views of morality. Discover how dark narratives endorse sexual violence and reflect systemic abuse. Dive into the complexities of faith and personal beliefs, especially regarding hot-button topics like same-sex marriage. The discussion also addresses political loyalty's impact on personal identity and critiques near-death experiences from an atheist perspective. Unravel biblical contradictions that leave listeners questioning long-held convictions.

Post-election, it seems more critical than ever to ask how humans think...and why.http://www.thinkingispower.comArticles on trigger warnings: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/21677026231186625https://www.bps.org.uk/research-digest/do-trigger-warnings-work-intendedhttps://bigthink.com/thinking/trigger-warnings-pointless-anxiety/VIDEO of this conversation: https://youtu.be/umbedCGKcQgBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Delve into the intriguing psychological barriers that hinder belief change, like confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance. Explore how deeply held beliefs often resist facts, showcasing emotional investments that cloud judgment. The discussion highlights the complexities of engaging in rational discourse in a polarized world. Discover strategies for fostering open-minded conversation and understanding, even amidst the 'brick wall brain' phenomenon. Real-life examples illustrate the challenge of shifting perspectives in societal debates.

Your humble host has been having dark post-election thoughts. We explore those thoughts and hear from plenty of callers.VIDEO of this streamPayPal donate link is HEREBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Dan Barker is an ex-pastor, co-president of Freedom From Religion Foundation, and author of a new book which turns apologetics literally on its ear.GET THE BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Contraduction-Dan-Barker/dp/1839195975VIDEO of this conversation: https://youtu.be/yOegdJHBQv0Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Seth Andrews has thoughts on the 2024 presidential election.VIDEO: https://youtu.be/mDAabvMH3uQBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Let's wrap up October with a bonus show loaded with host rants and listener calls!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Educator, podcaster, and columnist Aaron Rabinowitz recently published an article on "high weirdness." What does he mean?ARTICLE LINK: https://bit.ly/3BXsuGiVIDEO of this conversation: https://youtu.be/DqB5dfaefT0Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.