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
Nov 18, 2020 • 32min
#225 — Republic of Lies
The discussion dives into President Trump's refusal to concede the 2020 election and its implications for democracy. It highlights the growing political divisions and the need for critical thinking against a backdrop of institutional distrust. Misinformation is scrutinized, revealing its damaging effects on public discourse and democratic processes. The conversation reflects on the fragility of democratic institutions and the urgent demand for accountability to restore public trust and rational dialogue.
Nov 3, 2020 • 8min
#224 — The Key to Trump's Appeal
Explore the reasons behind Donald Trump's magnetic appeal among his supporters. The discussion reveals how his authenticity resonates deeply with those feeling disenfranchised by elite viewpoints. It also highlights the stark divide in American society, offering insights into the underlying emotions and beliefs that shape political loyalties. Tune in for a thought-provoking examination of the complexities surrounding contemporary politics.
Oct 30, 2020 • 1h 36min
#223 — A Conversation with Andrew Sullivan
In this engaging conversation, Andrew Sullivan, a renowned political commentator, delves into the complexities of modern leadership. He and Sam Harris discuss the impact of charismatic figures, like Trump, on public opinion and the pitfalls of divisive rhetoric in democracy. They explore the erosion of trust in institutions and the media, alongside a critical examination of political narratives surrounding integrity and race. Sullivan also reflects on the potential for a new conservative vision, advocating for empathy in these turbulent times.
Oct 28, 2020 • 1h 5min
#222 — A Pandemic of Incompetence
Nicholas Christakis, a physician and sociologist at Yale and author of "Apollo's Arrow," dives into the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. He explores the breakdown of trust in institutions and how political interference corrupted scientific integrity. Christakis discusses mortality metrics, questioning whether deaths were over-reported, and emphasizes the need for better public health communication. He also reflects on the future of universities, long-term social changes, and the critical importance of preparedness for pandemics.
Oct 22, 2020 • 47min
#221 — Success, Failure, & the Common Good
Michael Sandel, a renowned political philosopher from Harvard, chats about the troubling facets of meritocracy. He explores how higher education shapes societal hierarchies, calling it a modern caste system. Sandel critiques the myth of the self-made man, emphasizing that luck plays a crucial role in success. The conversation urges a rethinking of how we value human achievement and addresses the ethics of our tax system. It’s a compelling discussion on fairness, expertise, and the intertwining of wealth and societal worth.
Oct 17, 2020 • 48min
#220 - The Information Apocalypse
Nina Schick, an author and tech broadcaster with deep expertise in AI's societal impact, joins the conversation to tackle the alarming rise of misinformation. They delve into the perilous world of deep fakes and how technology shapes political cynicism. Schick highlights Russia's historical use of disinformation tactics and discusses the urgent need for resilience in the face of misinformation, particularly during elections. The chat also explores the ethical concerns surrounding synthetic media and the implications for democracy in our digital age.
Oct 8, 2020 • 48min
#219 — The Power of Compassion
James R. Doty, a neurosurgery professor at Stanford and author of "Into the Magic Shop," discusses the power of compassion as a transformative force in life. He shares insights from his challenging childhood and the significance of self-compassion and empathy. The conversation touches on the balance between emotion and duty in surgery and the complexities of healthcare in the U.S. Doty also recounts a memorable encounter with the Dalai Lama, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections in an increasingly disconnected world.
12 snips
Sep 24, 2020 • 47min
#218 — Welcome to the Cult Factory
In this engaging conversation, Tristan Harris, a former Google design ethicist and key voice in 'The Social Dilemma,' sheds light on the troubling impact of social media on society. He discusses the alarming rise in teen depression, political polarization, and the fragility of democracy due to misinformation. Harris highlights how technology exploits human vulnerabilities and encourages unethical business practices. They also tackle the crucial issue of responsibility in the digital age, questioning how we can reclaim a healthier relationship with technology.
Sep 17, 2020 • 1h 12min
#217 — The New Religion of Anti-Racism
John McWhorter, a linguistics professor and writer, delves into the evolving landscape of race and anti-racism in America. He discusses the shifting definitions of racism and the pitfalls of identity politics. The conversation touches on the double standards faced by the Black community and critiques the current approaches to addressing racial disparities. McWhorter also highlights the challenges of police violence narratives and the quest for colorblindness in a racially divided society. His insights aim for a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding these issues.
Sep 3, 2020 • 51min
#216 — A Conversation with Graeme Wood
Graeme Wood, a writer for The Atlantic and author of 'The Way of the Strangers,' dives into the unraveling social order in the U.S. He discusses the rise of violence and distrust in the media, drawing parallels with global events. The conversation takes a sharp turn as they dissect police encounters, the risks of vigilantism, and the impact of deep fakes on public perception. They also explore the complex nature of political rhetoric and gun violence, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of race and public safety.
