Making Sense with Sam Harris

Jeff Hawkins, co-founder of Numenta and a leading figure in neuroscience, dives into the fascinating nature of intelligence. He explains how the neocortex constructs models of our world, emphasizing the brain's predictive power. The discussion covers the alignment problem in artificial intelligence, the complexities of truth and belief, and the challenges posed by superintelligent AI. Hawkins challenges listeners to rethink human cognition and the future implications of AI, offering deep insights into the evolving relationship between technology and intelligence.

In this engaging discussion, David Buss, a prominent evolutionary psychologist and author, dives into the fascinating world of human mating strategies. He unpacks the biological and social underpinnings of sex differences in jealousy and infidelity. The conversation touches on the impact of dating apps, the nuances of polyamory, and the complexities surrounding the replication crisis in psychology. From ovulatory shifts in mate choice to the challenges of stepfamily dynamics, Buss shares insights that challenge stereotypes and reveal the intricacies of modern relationships.

Jason Fried, co-founder and CEO of Basecamp, dives into the controversial 'no politics' policy at his company. He shares his views on the impact of social justice activism on institutions and critiques how politics has taken on a religious fervor. The conversation navigates the challenges of remote work, the parallels between social media use and smoking, and the complexities of hiring in a politically charged landscape. Fried also touches on antitrust issues and the implications of wealth tax proposals for the economic elite.

Neil deGrasse Tyson, an acclaimed astrophysicist and science communicator, joins the discussion on humanity's role in the cosmos. He elaborates on the intriguing Fermi Paradox and potential advanced civilizations. The conversation touches on the latest findings of exoplanets and amino acids in meteorites, hinting at the possibilities of extraterrestrial life. Tyson also critiques current media narratives around UFOs and examines societal issues, like the flat-Earth belief. This lively talk challenges listeners to expand their understanding of the universe.

Antonio García-Martínez, a former Apple employee and author of 'Chaos Monkeys,' shares insights from his controversial tech career. He discusses the implications of cancel culture on free expression and personal identity in Silicon Valley. The conversation dives into corporate ethics, highlighting the reactions to his firing and the tech industry's accountability. García-Martínez also reflects on the challenges of artistic freedom in writing, tackling provocative subjects while navigating societal scrutiny and hypocrisy.

Jesse Singal, a journalist and author of "The Quick Fix," dives into complex and controversial issues with Sam Harris. They tackle the fragmentation of media and the decline of traditional journalism, exploring how these changes affect societal discourse. Singal shares his experiences with cancel culture and discusses the nuanced debates around transgender youth and activism. They highlight the importance of intellectual humility in today’s polarized climate and examine the implications of corporate speech on free expression.

David Whyte, a renowned poet celebrated for his exploration of meaning and consolation, joins Sam Harris for a profound discussion. They dive into Whyte's book, 'Consolations', reflecting on the rich meanings behind everyday words. The conversation contrasts the profound journeys of pilgrimage with the superficiality of tourism, emphasizing self-forgiveness and personal destiny. Whyte also articulates how navigating conversations can mirror the dynamics of flight, shedding light on the complexities of human connection and understanding.

Michele Gelfand, a renowned professor of psychology and author of "Rulemakers, Rule Breakers," dives into the intriguing dynamics of cultural norms. She discusses the stark differences between tight and loose cultures and their effect on behaviors and politics, particularly during the COVID pandemic. Gelfand also explores the delicate balance between order and individual freedom, revealing how societal expectations shape personal choices. The conversation touches on the impact of these norms on political polarization and the psychological implications of cultural expectations.

Rob Reid, a tech entrepreneur and science fiction writer, discusses the urgent threat of engineered pandemics. He reveals that the risk of artificial pathogens surpasses our understanding and emphasizes the need for proactive preparedness. Topics include the ethical dilemmas of manipulating dangerous viruses, the necessity of a global immune system, and the innovative use of far UVC light technology to combat diseases. Reid urges comprehensive regulatory frameworks and investments in health infrastructure to mitigate both synthetic and natural biological risks.

Lisa Feldman Barrett, a renowned professor at Northeastern University and author of "Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain," joins the conversation to delve into the fascinating realm of the human brain. They explore how our brains evolved and debunk the myth of the 'triune brain' while discussing the brain's predictive nature and its role in constructing emotions. The dialogue also touches on culture acting as an operating system and the intricate interplay between belief and reality, offering profound insights into how we perceive our world.