The Armen Show

In this episode of The Armen Show, host Armen Shirvanian engages with Professor Aziz Rana, author of The Constitutional Bind. They discuss Rana’s academic journey, the importance of writing in shaping thoughts, and the evolution of his book over time. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Constitution, particularly its reception and interpretation throughout the 20th century, highlighting the shifts in American political culture and the complexities surrounding constitutional law. In this conversation, Aziz and Armen explore the complexities of the U.S. Constitution, its democratic implications, and the challenges it presents in contemporary society. They discuss the historical context of constitutional critiques, the rigidity of the amendment process, and the need for political reform to address social issues. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding the Constitution’s role in shaping political culture and the necessity for a more adaptable and responsive governance system. Aziz Rana is the J. Donald Monan, S.J., University Professor of Law and Government at Boston College Law School. His research and teaching center on American constitutional law and political development. In particular, Rana’s work focuses on how shifting notions of race, citizenship, and empire have shaped legal and political identity since the founding of the country. He received his A.B. from Harvard College summa cum laude and his J.D. from Yale Law School. He earned a Ph.D. in political science at Harvard University, where his dissertation was awarded the University’s Charles Sumner Prize.

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian engages with Professor Robert Talisse, author of Civic Solitude: Why Democracy Needs Distance. They explore the importance of reflective thinking in democracy, the role of passion in political discourse, and the dangers of social media in shaping political communication. Talisse emphasizes the need for civic solitude to foster better democratic engagement and the importance of maintaining healthy political relationships across divides. The conversation highlights the challenges of conformity within political coalitions and the necessity of long-term thinking for future generations. Professor Robert B. Talisse is W. Alton Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Political Science at Vanderbilt University. He specializes in contemporary political philosophy, with particular interest in democratic theory and political epistemology. In addition, he pursues topics in pragmatism, analytic philosophy, argumentation theory, and ancient philosophy. Takeaways: Civic solitude is essential for democracy. Reflective thinking enhances our understanding of political issues. Passion in political discourse is important but must be balanced with civility. Social media often promotes anti-democratic communication styles. Political coalitions can become homogeneous and intolerant of dissent. Democracy requires both active participation and reflective solitude. Cognitive fitness is developed through engagement with differing viewpoints. Long-term thinking is crucial for the sustainability of democratic ideals. We need to forge new conceptual tools for understanding contemporary issues. Healthy political relationships across divides are vital for democracy.

In this episode of the Armen Show podcast, host Armen Shirvanian welcomes filmmaker and actress Kat Fairaway back for her third time on the program. They discuss the evolution of acting and filmmaking, personal stories of creative fulfillment, and the importance of collaboration in the industry. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of filmmaking and the stories that resonate with audiences today. In this engaging conversation, Armen Shirvanian and Kat Fairaway delve into the multifaceted world of acting, exploring themes of identity, creativity, and the importance of structure in film. They discuss the joy of acting as a form of imaginative play, the role of intuition in decision-making, and the societal emphasis on mental health and wellness. The dialogue is punctuated with personal reflections, rapid-fire questions, and insights into the nature of happiness and the future of society. Some key takeaways from the episode: The landscape of the film industry is changing rapidly. Embracing female stories is crucial in today’s filmmaking. Personal narratives can be gritty and powerful. Authentic connections enhance the filmmaking experience. Art prevails over financial motivations in creative expression. Supportive colleagues make a significant difference on set. Costume design plays a vital role in character development. Respect and collaboration foster creativity in film. Art provides meaning beyond everyday life. Exploring various roles enriches an actor’s journey. Creativity thrives within a structured environment. Hierarchy is essential in filmmaking for effective collaboration. Details in art can lead to deeper understanding and appreciation. Acting allows exploration of diverse life experiences. Gut feelings can guide decision-making, but may be overridden. Cultural connections can influence personal and societal dynamics. Being an only child can foster creativity and imagination. Societal stress can overshadow joy, highlighting the need for balance. Finding meaning in art is a continuous journey. Spontaneity in creativity can lead to unexpected and rewarding outcomes.

In this episode of the Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian Dr. Michael Orkin, author of “The Story of Chance”, an expert in statistics and probability, discussing the nuances of luck versus skill in games, the importance of long-term probability, and the implications of statistics in various fields such as insurance and economics. They delve into the complexities of causation versus correlation and explore Bayes’ rule as a method for updating probabilities based on new information. In this conversation, Mike Orkin discusses the intricacies of probability and statistics, drawing on examples from Daniel Kahneman’s work and the application of Monte Carlo simulations in various fields. He emphasizes the importance of understanding conditional probabilities, the shift towards data science, and the common misconceptions surrounding rare events. Orkin also reflects on influential figures in his career and shares insights on managing risks in gambling and decision-making processes. Key Takeaways: Probability and statistics are essential in understanding games of chance and skill. Games of skill often have a more significant long-term appeal than games of chance. Quantifying skill in games involves statistical analysis of player performance. Understanding probability can lead to better decision-making in life. Insurance companies rely heavily on statistical analysis to assess risk. Causation cannot be assumed from correlation without further evidence. Bayes’ rule is a powerful tool for updating probabilities based on new data. The misuse of statistics can lead to misinformation in society. Long-term data is crucial for accurate probability assessments. Understanding the nuances of luck and skill can impact various industries. Kahneman’s experiments illustrate the pitfalls of resemblance stereotyping. Conditional probabilities can significantly impact decision-making in games. Monte Carlo simulations have diverse applications, including weather forecasting. The rise of data science reflects a growing interest in statistical analysis. Understanding rare events is crucial for making informed decisions. Influential mentors can shape one’s career path in unexpected ways. Managing money is essential, even in winning scenarios. Intuition often fails when it comes to understanding probabilities. Statistical work is often hidden from public view, yet impactful. It’s important to learn from mistakes without making catastrophic errors. Dr. Orkin’s expertise and ability to connect complex statistical concepts with real-world applications have made him a sought-after speaker in the media. He has previously appeared on platforms such as NPR, CBS Radio, Google Tech Talks, and various academic forums, where his clear and engaging communication style has resonated with diverse audiences.

In this episode of The Armen Show, Professor Sophie Scott-Brown discusses her journey into anarchism, exploring its relevance in contemporary society. She emphasizes the importance of questioning authority, the role of individual agency, and the need for curiosity in human interactions. The conversation delves into the qualities of non-conformists, the influence of hierarchy, and the significance of influential thinkers in anarchism. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the potential for anarchy to foster freedom and creativity in everyday life. Sophie Scott-Brown is the former Director of Gresham College and fellow at the University of St Andrews. An inspiring intellectual historian with research interests in modern European political thought, Anarchism, and the history of education, Sophie is also a fellow of the Higher Education Academy and of the Royal History Society. She is an author excited by historical biography as a means of understanding ideas. Her work includes The Histories of Raphael Samuel: A Portrait of a People’s Historian and Colin Ward and The Art of Everyday Anarchy. Keywords: anarchy, anarchism, philosophy, authority, freedom, individualism, social organization, responsibility, curiosity, community Takeaways: Anarchy is a way of thinking and acting, not just a political ideology. Real freedom involves not worrying about social interactions and being open to experiences. Curiosity about others can lead to meaningful connections and insights. Hierarchies often fail to address complex problems effectively. Anarchy encourages individual agency and responsibility in decision-making. The qualities of non-conformists can inspire others to embrace their individuality. Education systems often promote conformity over critical thinking and creativity. Anarchy is a constant presence in everyday life, often unnoticed. Influential thinkers like Colin Ward and David Graeber have shaped modern anarchist thought. Anarchy can be therapeutic, helping individuals unlearn fearfulness and anxiety.

How important is the link between the mind, gut, and our immunity? How does food impact the connection that these parts have? In this episode, endocrine and general surgeon Dr. Amanda Doubleday joins myself, host Armen Shirvanian, to discuss topics in relation to The Mind-Gut-Immune Connection: Understanding How Food Impacts Our Mind, Our Microbiome, and Our Immunity with gastroenterologist and author Dr. Emeran Mayer. We cover the importance of incorporating the immune system into the understanding of the microbiome. Dr. Doubleday joins me in exploring Dr. Mayer’s work and the potential for using probiotics to improve autoimmune thyroid disease. We also discuss the impact of diet on the immune system and the importance of a healthy gut microbiome. Dr. Mayer highlights the need for a holistic approach to healthcare and the potential for microbiome testing to predict and prevent diseases in the future. The conversation explores the connection between the gut microbiome and mental health, specifically focusing on the relationship between gut health and psychological resilience, as well as the potential link between the gut and depression. The discussion also delves into the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its connection to environmental stress. The importance of mind-targeted therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction, in treating IBS is highlighted. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the challenges of changing dietary habits and the influence of marketing on food choices. Dr. Emeran Mayer has studied mind-brain-body interactions for the last 40 years, with a particular emphasis on bidirectional communication between the brain, the gut and its microbiome. He is the executive director of the Oppenheimer Center for Stress and Resilience and the Co-director of the Digestive Diseases Research Center at UCLA. He is the author of more than 300 scientific publications and several books, including the bestselling original The Mind-Gut Connection from 2016. He is considered a pioneer and world leader in the areas of brain gut microbiome interactions, chronic visceral pain and functional gastrointestinal disorders. The Mind-Gut-Immune Connection is available online. Dr. Amanda Doubleday is a general and endocrine surgeon of the ProHealth system of hospitals near Waukesha, Wisconsin. She received her D.O. from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, and is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Her General Surgery residency was at Flushing Hospital Medical Center in New York, and her Endocrine Surgery residency was at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.

In this episode, Armen interviews Philosophy Professor Gwendolyn Dolske of Cal Poly Pomona, co-host of The Good Is In The Details podcast with Rudy Salo. They discuss the importance of delving into the details and nuances of life, the joy of philosophical conversations, and the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. They also explore the concept of absurdity in the world and the addictive nature of social media. Gwendolyn emphasizes the need to prioritize self-care and self-reflection in order to find true happiness and fulfillment. In this conversation, Gwendolyn discusses the themes of philosophy, gender roles, and relationships. She highlights how philosophers and thinkers throughout history have approached similar topics from different angles. Gwendolyn also explores the controversial takes on women and men’s roles in society and the changing dynamics of relationships. She emphasizes the importance of aligning values in relationships and the impact of past relationships on personal growth. Lastly, Gwendolyn delves into the significance of love and its connection to our well-being and existence.

Returning guest Bronwyn Williams joins host Armen Shirvanian to discuss her book ‘Rescuing Our Republic’ and the specific challenges faced by South Africa. She explains the collaborative effort behind the book and how it addresses relevant issues in politics, economics, and society. One of the main themes discussed is the division and inequality in South Africa, particularly in Johannesburg, where high walls and gated communities separate the rich from the poor. Bronwyn also explores the tendency to blame the wrong people for inequality and the need to focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past. The conversation explores the concept of property ownership and its impact on society, focusing on South Africa as an example. It discusses the issues of affordability and accessibility of property, the complexities of land redistribution, and the importance of ownership in creating a sense of belonging and investment in the community. The conversation also delves into the idea of common goods and the need for more equitable distribution of resources, such as water and spectrum rights. It concludes with a discussion on optimism, agency, and the potential for change, particularly among the youth. Bronwyn Williams is a polymath who challenges assumptions about the present and the future. She is a Futurist, Economist and Business Trends Analyst. She has over a decade’s worth of experience in strategic management, trend research and strategic foresight. She has consulted for clients in public and private sectors across the world. Part economist, part strategist, Bronwyn’s particular areas of expertise include fintech trends, alternative economic models, and sustainable futures design.

In this episode with host Armen Shirvanian, the show is joined by Professor Camilla Nord, who leads the Mental Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Cambridge, and is the author of “The Balanced Brain”, published by Princeton University Press. They discuss various topics related to mental health, neuroscience, and the brain. Camilla shares her experience giving public talks and the discomfort that comes with speaking to non-experts. They also explore the factors that contribute to depression and the need for a more nuanced understanding of mental health conditions. They discuss the importance of matching treatments to individuals and the challenges in differentiating between psychological and biological treatments. They also touch on the impact of screen time on the brain’s reward pathways and the role of predictive models in mental well-being. In this conversation, neuroscientist Camilla Nord discusses various topics related to mental health and neuroscience. She talks about the importance of social experiments in understanding human behavior and growth. Nord also explores the concept of neuroplasticity and how the brain can change and adapt throughout adulthood. She shares personal experiences of how certain individuals and events have shaped her life. The conversation touches on the topic of autism and the importance of embracing neurodiversity. Nord also discusses the use of antidepressants and the potential for combining biological and psychological treatments. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the elements of a mentally healthy lifestyle and the future of mental health research. Camilla Nord leads the Mental Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Cambridge. Her research has been featured in the New Statesman, the Daily Mail and the British Journal of Psychiatry, and on the BBC.

Amorina Kingdon, author of “Sing Like Fish”, joins us to discuss the impact of sound on underwater life, the differences in sound transmission in air and water, and the effects of man-made noise on marine organisms. She also explores the unique communication methods of dolphins and the challenges of studying the impact of noise on sea life. The conversation delves into the impact of noise on marine life, the significance of sound in animal societies, and the efforts to mitigate noise pollution in the ocean. It also explores the interconnectedness of different species and the importance of understanding their relationships and ecosystems. The conversation highlights the need for detailed research on the effects of noise on non-mammal marine animals and the challenges of regulating shipping noise in ecologically sensitive areas. Until 2021, Amorina was the staff writer for Hakai Magazine. Her work at Hakai has been anthologized in Best Canadian Essays 2020 (Biblioasis) and received honours including a Digital Publishing Award, a Jack Webster Award, and Best New Magazine Writer from the National Magazine Awards. Previously, she was a science writer for the University of Victoria and the Science Media Center of Canada. You can read her fiction in PRISM Magazine, Flash Fiction Magazine, and forthcoming in Speculative North. She has a diploma in journalism from Concordia University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Carleton University. You can get “Sing Like Fish” here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/704875/sing-like-fish-by-amorina-kingdon/