Making Sense with Sam Harris

Discover the unique approach to time management that emphasizes embracing our limitations instead of striving for relentless efficiency. Insights from Oliver Burkeman encourage listeners to prioritize what truly matters and make conscious decisions about their time. The discussion delves into the philosophical and psychological challenges of navigating life's endless possibilities. This mindset shift aims to foster personal growth and fulfillment by aligning our daily choices with our core values.

In this discussion, Peter Zeihan, a geopolitical strategist, and Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group, dissect the implications of deglobalization and demographic decline. They explore how these factors create differing futures for global powers like China and the U.S. The conversation also touches on the war in Ukraine and its impacts, as well as the aging population's challenges. Listeners gain insight into how these trends reshape economic dynamics and geopolitics in an increasingly tumultuous world.

Morgan Housel, a Partner at Collaborative Fund and former columnist, delves into the psychology of money and investing. He discusses how personal history shapes our views on economic risk and the distinction between being rich and truly wealthy. Housel highlights the problem of social comparison and its impact on happiness. The conversation explores the role of luck, the power of compounding, and the importance of saving and investing wisely, revealing that genuine financial freedom is a crucial pillar of life satisfaction.

Dive into the intriguing world of psychedelics and their potential to expand consciousness beyond the confines of the mind. Explore how these substances offer immediate insights, contrasting with the gradual journey of meditation. Discover the transformative power of mindfulness, shaping attention and awareness, and learn how cultural pressures affect our pursuit of meaning. Delve into the ethical dimensions of meditation, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, forgiveness, and genuine presence in everyday life.

David French, a Senior Editor at The Dispatch and author of *Divided We Fall*, joins the discussion on America's growing divisions. He shares his unique perspective as a former military officer and the challenges of navigating political grievances. The conversation highlights the parallels between today's polarization and sectarian violence, the surprising support for Trump among evangelicals, and the dangers of online activism. French also reflects on the ideological transformations within the Republican Party and the moral complexities of gun ownership.

Judd Apatow, an Emmy Award-winning director and comedian, dives into his illustrious career in comedy and reflects on the legacy of George Carlin in a new documentary. He discusses why certain comedic styles become outdated and how improv plays a crucial role in his films. The conversation touches on parenting in the digital age, navigating fame, and the significance of free speech in comedy. Judd also shares insights on the changing nature of humor, from political commentary to more nihilistic perspectives, revealing the complexities of creativity.

Graeme Wood, a staff writer for The Atlantic and Yale teacher, dives into the urgent problem of gun violence in America, notably after the Uvalde shooting. He discusses the complexities of gun culture, legislation, and the psychological effects of mass shootings on children. The conversation highlights the need for stricter gun regulations while examining the societal implications of personal safety. Wood also critiques current emergency response strategies and advocates for cultural shifts to enhance gun safety and accountability.

Jay Garfield, a professor of philosophy and author, shares his expertise on the illusion of self. He delves into how our perception of selfhood is an interdependent construct, integrating Buddhist and Western philosophies. The discussion challenges traditional notions of identity and free will, advocating for a deeper understanding of consciousness separate from the self. Garfield emphasizes the role of meditation in reshaping our experience of reality, encouraging listeners to reflect on the complexities of personal identity.

Douglas Murray, an author and associate editor for The Spectator, joins to discuss his new book, 'The War on the West.' They dive into the cultural implications of hyper partisanship, dissecting the roles of identity politics and media bias in today's society. Murray critiques contemporary anti-racist movements and explores the unsettling topics of the Hunter Biden laptop scandal and political polarization. The conversation highlights the urgent need for constructive dialogue in an increasingly divided landscape.

In this discussion, Eric Schmidt, a technologist and former CEO of Google, dives into the transformative potential and existential risks posed by artificial intelligence. He highlights parallels between today's AI advancements and past challenges like nuclear proliferation. The conversation touches on AI's impact on professions, the ethical dilemmas it presents, and the critical threat of misinformation, especially from deepfakes. Schmidt emphasizes the urgent need for multidisciplinary dialogue to navigate the complexities of AI's future in society.