Making Sense with Sam Harris

Sam Harris chats with David Edmonds, a writer and philosopher known for his work on moral philosophy. They delve into the life and impact of Derek Parfit, particularly his insights on identity and moral ethics. Topics include the non-identity problem and its relevance to future generations, as well as the controversial repugnant conclusion in population ethics. They also explore how our choices today affect tomorrow, and the philosophical interplay between happiness and moral value. Expect a thought-provoking discussion full of intriguing ideas!

Scott Barry Kaufman, an author and psychologist recognized for his insights on self-actualization, dives into profound discussions about death and its impact on living a fulfilling life. He connects Abraham Maslow's principles to the experience of mortality, emphasizing how confronting death can inspire creativity. The conversation also touches on the transformative potential of psychedelic therapies in easing death anxiety, encouraging a mindset of curiosity and exploration to enhance appreciation for life’s fleeting nature.

Shamil Chandaria, a philanthropist and expert in computational neuroscience, joins Sam Harris to explore how our brains construct the self and reality. They delve into Bayesian inference and predictive processing, discussing how these concepts shape our understanding of perception. The conversation highlights the interplay between psychedelics and meditation, their effects on neuroplasticity, and insights on human flourishing. They also touch on love, gratitude, and the philosophical idea of non-duality, making for a thought-provoking exchange on consciousness.

David Auerbach, a writer and technologist with a background at Google and Microsoft, shares his insights on the digital world's challenges. They explore the trade-offs between liberty and cooperation in online spaces. Auerbach discusses the rise of 'meganets' and their impact on our perceptions. He highlights difficulties in combating misinformation and the role of AI in shaping discourse. The conversation also addresses online identity issues and the importance of breaking free from digital bubbles to foster better understanding across differing viewpoints.

Tristan Harris, a former Google designer and advocate for ethical technology, discusses the detrimental effects of social media on individual and societal well-being. He shares insights from his documentary, The Social Dilemma, focusing on how algorithms promote division. The conversation includes perspectives on content moderation and corporate transparency from Jack Dorsey, while Jonathan Haidt reveals alarming mental health impacts, particularly on teenage girls. The episode concludes with a look at the political ramifications of social media, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions.

Tim Maudlin, a philosophy professor at NYU and director of the John Bell Institute, dives into the fascinating intersection of physics and metaphysics. He discusses the nature of time, comparing presentism and eternalism. Topics like scientific reductionism and the laws of nature are explored, along with riveting questions about free will and causation. Maudlin also introduces modal realism and David Lewis’s possible worlds, challenging listeners to rethink their understanding of reality and the notion of possibilities.

In this engaging conversation, Paul Bloom, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto, discusses the interplay of psychology, creativity, and morality. They explore fiction's role in understanding the mind, dissect the ethics of AI, and challenge the impact of misinformation on our beliefs. Bloom shares insights on the difference between bullshitting and lying in politics, the nuances of consciousness versus intelligence, and the importance of critical thinking in navigating authority in science and society. It's a thought-provoking dive into the complexities of human cognition.

In this discussion, Sam Harris sits down with Matt Thornton, a fifth-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and founder of Straight Blast Gym. They delve into Thornton's new book, exploring the nuances of violence and self-defense. The conversation highlights the evolution of mixed martial arts and the crucial distinction between 'street' versus 'sport' fighting. Thornton examines the psychological aspects of male violence and offers insights into the importance of emotional maturity and practical training. They also reflect on the realities women face concerning violence and the role of combat sports in personal growth.

Philosopher Nick Bostrom dives into the stark realities of existential threats and nuclear war, revealing how emerging technologies could heighten humanity's vulnerability. He discusses the concept of the 'great filter' in advanced civilizations and highlights the fragility of our existence amidst harmful knowledge. Former Defense Secretary William J. Perry paints a chilling picture of a potential nuclear terrorist attack, while historian Fred Kaplan navigates a hypothetical nuclear first-strike timeline. Ultimately, Yuval Noah Harari offers a glimmer of hope through the idea of 'global myth-making'.

Tim Urban, a writer and illustrator known for co-founding 'Wait But Why' and authoring 'What’s Our Problem? A Self-Help Book for Societies,' joins for a thought-provoking dialogue. They discuss the finitude of life and existential risks posed by rapid technological change. Urban reflects on political tribalism and the erosion of trust in institutions, as well as the sensationalism in media that fosters division. The conversation also touches on complex ideas like visualizing time and the importance of nurturing relationships within life's constraints.