Making Sense with Sam Harris
Sam Harris
Join neuroscientist, philosopher, and five-time New York Times best-selling author Sam Harris as he explores important and controversial questions about the mind, society, current events, moral philosophy, religion, and rationality—with an overarching focus on how a growing understanding of ourselves and the world is changing our sense of how we should live.
Sam is also the creator of the Waking Up app. Combining Sam’s decades of mindfulness practice, profound wisdom from varied philosophical and contemplative traditions, and a commitment to a secular, scientific worldview, Waking Up is a resource for anyone interested in living a more examined, fulfilling life—and a new operating system for the mind.
Waking Up offers free subscriptions to anyone who can’t afford one, and donates a minimum of 10% of profits to the most effective charities around the world. To learn more, please go to WakingUp.com.
Sam Harris received a degree in philosophy from Stanford University and a Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA.
Sam is also the creator of the Waking Up app. Combining Sam’s decades of mindfulness practice, profound wisdom from varied philosophical and contemplative traditions, and a commitment to a secular, scientific worldview, Waking Up is a resource for anyone interested in living a more examined, fulfilling life—and a new operating system for the mind.
Waking Up offers free subscriptions to anyone who can’t afford one, and donates a minimum of 10% of profits to the most effective charities around the world. To learn more, please go to WakingUp.com.
Sam Harris received a degree in philosophy from Stanford University and a Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA.
Episodes
Mentioned books
183 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 25min
#440 — A World in Crisis
Robert D. Kaplan, a renowned geopolitical analyst and author, dives into pressing global issues. He discusses the profound impacts of climate change and demographics on migration and security. Kaplan warns that the primacy of order is crucial to preserve freedom, echoing historical lessons. He critiques globalization and social media's role in modern political instability. Addressing the decline of Russia under Putin, he analyzes its implications for global dynamics, while pondering the future of U.S.-China relations amidst rising tensions.
157 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 23min
#439 — How to Lose a Democracy
Damon Linker, a political writer and senior lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the alarming erosion of American democracy. He discusses the rise of right-wing populism and how Trump is consolidating authoritarian control. Linker warns of the dangers of civil unrest and tyrannical governance, highlighting the weaponization of political narratives. The conversation also critiques aggressive immigration policies and the reality behind crime rhetoric, exposing how inflammatory language escalates tensions in society.
195 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 28min
#438 — “More From Sam”: Israel-Hamas Deal, Qatari Air Force Base, Trump, Charlie Kirk, Ezra Klein, & Rapid Fire Questions
This discussion dives into the implications of Trump's involvement in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal and why some activists remain silent about it. They explore the challenges to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East and debate the potential role of Gulf states in fostering stability. A curious highlight is the controversial Qatari airbase planned for Idaho, raising questions about foreign influence in U.S. academia. The conversation also touches on Trump's character as revealed through his golf habits and reflects on the disturbing surge of political violence symbolized by Charlie Kirk's assassination.
156 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 20min
#437 — Two Years Since 10/7
In this engaging discussion, foreign policy expert Dan Senor sheds light on the aftermath of the October 7th attacks. He highlights the alarming rise of global antisemitism and its roots in recent rhetoric. Senor delves into the failures of Western nations in addressing the spread of Islamism and the backlash from their appeasement strategies. He also predicts a rightward political shift in Europe as safety concerns grow. With sharp insights, the conversation navigates the complexities of religious critique versus bigotry in today’s climate.
143 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 25min
#436 — A Crisis of Trust
Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease epidemiologist with over 50 years of experience, discusses his new book about preparing for future pandemics. He shares critical lessons from the COVID-19 response, highlighting mistakes like blanket lockdowns and the need for better respiratory protection. Osterholm explains the difference between airborne and droplet transmission and warns of the potentially lethal 'Big One' pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on preparedness rather than getting lost in debates over the virus's origins.
230 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 37min
#435 — The Last Invention
In this insightful discussion, Andy Mills, an experienced audio reporter and co-founder of Longview, delves into the complexities and risks of AI. He shares a chilling conspiracy tip about Silicon Valley's ambitions to substitute human governance with AI. The duo explores the accelerating beliefs around AGI and its potential to revolutionize or threaten society. They also address the urgent necessity for regulation and coordination as humanity navigates this technological tightrope, contemplating whether we should halt AGI development or brace for its implications.
348 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 36min
#434 — Can We Survive AI?
In this engaging discussion, AI researcher Eliezer Yudkowsky and MIRI’s Executive Director Nate Soares delve into their provocative book on the existential risks of superintelligent AI. They unpack the alignment problem, addressing the unsettling possibility that AI could develop survival instincts. The duo critiques the skepticism among tech leaders regarding superintelligent AI dangers and explores real-world consequences of current AI systems. With insights on ethical implications and the unpredictability of AI behavior, they warn that unchecked AI advancements may lead to a catastrophic outcome for humanity.
273 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 22min
#433 — How Did We Get Here?
Dan Carlin, a renowned podcaster behind Hardcore History and Common Sense, joins to dissect the intricate political landscape of today. He examines the decades-long expansion of presidential power and the consequences of hyper-partisanship. Carlin delves into the fragmentation within society, touching on topics like immigration and foreign interference. He also raises concerns about the rising tide of political violence and the necessity of media gatekeepers in our current climate. It's a compelling conversation about the state of democracy.
206 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 26min
#432 — The Undoing of America
David French, a Columnist at the New York Times and a legal expert, joins the discussion on the challenges facing American democracy. He highlights Trump's aggressive tactics against political opponents and the troubling misuse of presidential powers. The conversation delves into the potential solidification of authoritarianism, the role of Congress, and the urgent need for constitutional amendments. French also examines the dynamics of Trumpism within the Republican Party and the unique political skills that may keep Trump in power beyond two terms.
184 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 23min
#431 — What Is Happening on College Campuses?
In this engaging discussion, Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University and a New York Times contributor, tackles the complexities of higher education. He explores concerns about wokeness, the challenges of navigating ideological diversity, and the tensions between free speech and inclusivity on campus. Roth also shares insights on how universities should manage controversial speakers while upholding academic integrity. His perspectives on the ideological pressures from the Trump administration add depth to the conversation surrounding the future of academic freedom.
