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 22, 2020 • 59min
#205 — The Failure of Meritocracy
In a thought-provoking discussion, Daniel Markovits, a Yale law professor and author of The Meritocracy Trap, explores the pitfalls of meritocracy. He argues that instead of fostering equal opportunity, it entrenches societal inequalities, creating a new caste system. The conversation delves into the impact of the education system on wealth disparity and the challenges faced by the shrinking middle class. Markovits also critiques the elite's reluctance to support wealth redistribution, emphasizing the need for fair taxation and shared responsibility in addressing systemic inequalities.
May 18, 2020 • 1h 6min
#204 — A Conversation with Jonathan Haidt
Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist known for his insights on moral psychology and political polarization, joins Sam Harris for a thought-provoking discussion. They tackle the roots of American political division and the decline of public discourse, stressing the need for ideological diversity. Haidt also shares concerns about social media's impact on Generation Z's mental health and explores the potential for psychedelics and practices like meditation to enhance personal well-being and foster deeper connections in society.
May 13, 2020 • 1h 8min
#203 — A Conversation with Caitlin Flanagan
Caitlin Flanagan, a renowned writer for The Atlantic, speaks candidly about her personal battle with cancer and the emotional turmoil it brings. She reflects on the nuances of public apologies and the complexities of forgiveness in today’s society. Discussing the #MeToo movement, Flanagan explores modern feminism and its implications. The conversation also touches on navigating health challenges during the pandemic, encouraging a deeper understanding of human connections amid public discourse and personal hardships.
May 11, 2020 • 38min
#202 — A Conversation with Andrew Yang
Andrew Yang, an entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, joins the conversation to explore the ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic on the middle class. He advocates for universal basic income to address job losses and systemic inefficiencies. The discussion also touches on the disconnect in political leadership, concerns about President Biden's age, and growing wealth inequality exacerbated by recent economic changes. With insights into the dynamics of US-China relations and the need for improved digital infrastructure, Yang offers a thought-provoking vision for the future.
May 1, 2020 • 1h 9min
#201 — A Conversation with Yuval Noah Harari
Yuval Noah Harari, a historian and acclaimed author of works like Sapiens, joins for a compelling dialogue on the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic. They dissect failures in global leadership and the rise of nationalism versus globalism. The conversation highlights the perils of misinformation in shaping public trust and how technology influences beliefs. Harari also reflects on the evolving understanding of death, the implications of wealth inequality, and the essential need for personal connections in turbulent times.
19 snips
Apr 29, 2020 • 33min
#200 — Creatures of Habit
In this engaging talk, James Clear, author of "Atomic Habits," shares his expertise on habit formation. He discusses the critical difference between building good habits and breaking bad ones, emphasizing the role of our environment. Clear explores the conflict between immediate gratification and long-term benefits, introducing concepts like the 'remembering self' and 'experiencing self.' He advocates for prioritizing systems over goals and explains how small, consistent actions can lead to remarkable progress in all areas of life.
Apr 24, 2020 • 38min
#199 — A Conversation with Caitlin Flanagan
In this engaging discussion, Caitlin Flanagan, a noted author and journalist from The Atlantic, tackles the ethics of abortion with sensitivity and depth. She delves into the historical practices surrounding abortion in the U.S., revealing uncomfortable truths and emotional complexities. The conversation also touches on the moral hypocrisy of Hollywood and the implications of wealth in universities during the pandemic. Flanagan encourages a nuanced dialogue, weaving in thought-provoking perspectives on social issues with her signature insightful commentary.
Apr 16, 2020 • 59min
#198 — A Conversation with Paul Bloom
Paul Bloom, a Yale psychology professor, dives into the complex relationship between the economy and public health during the pandemic. He explores the ethics of valuing human life and the moral dilemmas faced in lockdown decisions. Their conversation touches on how Covid-19 may shift societal norms and behaviors, especially regarding education and social interactions. Bloom also reflects on children's resilience amidst disruption and the psychological impacts of collective trauma, emphasizing the importance of community support.
Apr 12, 2020 • 31min
#197 — A Conversation with Caitlin Flanagan
Caitlin Flanagan, an insightful author and journalist, joins the conversation to discuss the varied experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has exposed flaws in the education system. She shares her thoughts on the 2020 election, raising concerns about Joe Biden and the media's slow response to his #MeToo allegations. Flanagan also highlights perceived double standards in journalism and feminism, and explores how societal shifts are reshaping our values and connections in a post-pandemic world.
Apr 10, 2020 • 60min
#196 — The Science of Happiness
Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and host of the Happiness Lab podcast, dives into the scientific study of happiness. She discusses how social connections can enhance well-being and the impacts of technology on our relationships. Santos also explores the differences between the experiencing self and the remembered self, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and resilience. The conversation touches on the joy of altruism and the misconception that achieving goals leads to lasting happiness, revealing deeper insights into desire and fulfillment.
