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
May 21, 2021 • 45min
#250 — Broken Conversations
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.
May 14, 2021 • 33min
#249 — Distance & Arrival
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.
Apr 30, 2021 • 39min
#248 — Order & Freedom
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.
Apr 24, 2021 • 3h 41min
Special Episode: Engineering the Apocalypse
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.
Apr 22, 2021 • 1h 8min
#247 — Constructing Minds
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.
8 snips
Apr 16, 2021 • 1h 42min
#246 — Police Training & Police Misconduct
In this engaging discussion, Rener Gracie, a third-generation member of the renowned Gracie family and instructor of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, explores the intersection of martial arts and modern policing. He argues that incorporating jiu-jitsu into police training can significantly improve officer skills, reduce excessive force, and enhance community relations. The conversation delves into the critical gaps in current police training, highlighting real-life success stories and the potential for transformative change in law enforcement practices.
Apr 12, 2021 • 43min
#245 — Can We Talk About Scary Ideas?
Join bioethics luminary Peter Singer and Francesca Minerva, a research fellow at the University of Milan, as they unpack the launching of the Journal of Controversial Ideas. They dive into the ethics surrounding taboo topics like race and IQ, and explore whether individuals should be allowed to sell their vaccine slots. The discussion also touches on the dangerous tug-of-war between activism and academia, and the implications of free speech amidst a culture of political correctness, urging a robust dialogue on sensitive issues.
67 snips
Apr 6, 2021 • 1h 13min
#244 — Food, Climate, and Pandemic Risk
Sam Harris chats with Bruce Friedrich and Liz Specht from the Good Food Institute, experts in transforming protein production for a sustainable future. They discuss the shocking connection between animal agriculture, climate change, and pandemic risks. The conversation highlights the rise of alternative proteins, the psychological barriers to accepting new food technologies, and the crucial role of biotechnology in ensuring global health. They emphasize the need for appealing solutions to make sustainable options accessible and desirable to consumers.
Mar 28, 2021 • 10min
#243 — A Few Points of Confusion
Explore the transformative power of meditation and how misconceptions can hinder its true benefits. Delve into the intersection of personal growth and capitalism, highlighting the role of luck and compassion in success. Discover how insights gained from meditation can deepen our understanding of identity and spirituality, enriching both personal and societal perceptions.
11 snips
Mar 23, 2021 • 1h 4min
#242 — Psychedelics and the Self
Sam Harris hosts James Fadiman, a Harvard and Stanford-educated psychologist and early psychedelic researcher, known for his work in microdosing. They delve into who should safely take psychedelics and the crucial aspect of 'set and setting.' Fadiman shares insights on microdosing's antidepressant properties and cognitive benefits. They explore the distinctions between MDMA and true psychedelics, the transformative effects of psychedelics on self-identity, and the necessity of compassionate guidance in these experiences.
