Making Sense with Sam Harris

Renée DiResta, a technical research manager at the Stanford Internet Observatory, dives into the chaotic realm of digital misinformation. She highlights the stark difference between influence and propaganda, and how social media fosters echo chambers. The duo discusses the fallout from COVID-19 misinformation, especially regarding vaccines, and how public trust has been undermined. DiResta shares her experiences with smear campaigns and the challenges of navigating free speech amidst the complexities of today's information landscape.

Dr. Jennifer Mitchell, a leading researcher on psychedelics in mental health, and Dr. Sarah Betty, an emergency medicine physician and psychedelic facilitator, dive deep into the transformative potential of MDMA for PTSD treatment. They discuss the historical context of psychedelic research and the ongoing battles with the FDA. Their conversation highlights the remarkable success of clinical trials, the challenges of ethical therapy practices, and the urgency for innovative psychiatric treatments, particularly for veterans. It's a bold exploration of healing through psychedelics in a complex landscape.

In this discussion, columnist Anne Applebaum, an expert on autocracy and Eastern Europe, dives into the current fragility of democracies. They explore how modern autocracies systematically undermine democratic institutions and the dangerous cooperation among dictators. The conversation touches on Trump’s charismatic appeal, the alarming decline of American democracy, and the moral dilemmas faced by the West in supporting Ukraine amidst rising populism. Applebaum also critiques the misplaced optimism of the 90s, revealing the persistent threats that still loom over democratic ideals.

The podcast dives into the shocking assassination attempt on a former president and its ramifications for the political landscape. It highlights how such violence can paradoxically bolster Trump's position while reflecting on the dire consequences of political extremism. The conversation also unpacks the normalization of divisiveness and how this incident poses a broader threat to democracy, stirring deep reflections on political violence and its far-reaching impacts.

In this engaging discussion, neuroscientist Christof Koch, a prominent figure in consciousness studies, shares insights from his impressive career and collaborations, including with Francis Crick. He dives into topics like change blindness, the nature of consciousness, and the potential for conscious AI. Koch explores the philosophical implications of physicalism, psychedelic experiences, and Integrated Information Theory. The conversation raises captivating questions about reality, existence, and how consciousness intertwines with our understanding of the physical world.

Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Israel's special envoy for combating antisemitism, discusses the alarming rise of antisemitism globally. She addresses the bias against Israel at the UN and critiques the perception of Israel as an apartheid state. The conversation highlights the complexities of anti-Zionism as a new form of Jew hatred and challenges the moral equivalence drawn between Hamas's actions and Israel's self-defense. Cotler-Wunsh calls for a deeper understanding of historical antisemitism to effectively counter its current manifestations.

Join George Saunders, celebrated author of *Lincoln in the Bardo*, as he delves into the creative process intertwined with kindness and Buddhism. He shares insights on writing as a meditative practice and the emotional journey of drafting. The conversation touches on the troubling impact of social media on identity and communication, alongside reflections on political discourse and economic disparity. Saunders emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in creativity and the search for deeper understanding in our ordinary lives.

In this engaging discussion, comedian and political commentator Bill Maher shares his candid perspectives on the current state of the world. He delves into the aftermath of October 7th, the failures of the Biden campaign, and the cowardice prevalent among celebrities. They explore the complexities of modern political discourse, the need for empathy, and the dangers of polarization. Maher reflects on his relationship with his audience, upcoming elections, and even his potential retirement from stand-up, all laced with his signature wit.

Masih Alinejad, an Iranian-American journalist and women's rights activist, joins the conversation to shed light on the issue of gender apartheid in Iran. She discusses the hypocrisy of Western feminists and the oppressive regime, including the morality police and compulsory veiling. Masih shares her experiences with assassination plots and reflects on the disconnect between the Iranian populace and their government. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for global solidarity in advocating for women's rights and the complexities of cultural identity in the fight against oppression.

Sebastian Junger, a New York Times bestselling author and Peabody Award winner, shares his remarkable insights on danger and mortality. He discusses his harrowing experience with a burst aneurysm and the emotional trauma that lingered. Junger delves into the connection between danger and meaning, recounting his time as a war reporter and the communal bonds formed in perilous situations. He also explores the concepts of awe, psychedelics, and near-death experiences, challenging conventional notions of life and consciousness.