The Michael Shermer Show

Rebecca Lemov, a historian of science at Harvard and visiting scholar at the Max Planck Institute, reveals the subtle ways brainwashing permeates our lives. She discusses its historical roots from POWs in North Korea to the modern dangers of social media. The conversation touches on the psychology behind cults and the moral implications of obedience in extreme situations. A focus on transformative self-awareness underscores how perceived autonomy can be manipulated. Lemov's insights challenge our understanding of control, belief, and societal norms.

Sarah McLaughlin, a senior scholar at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, dives into the alarming influence of foreign authoritarian regimes on U.S. universities. She reveals how financial ties with countries like China compromise academic integrity and freedom of expression. McLaughlin shares personal insights on censorship's rise since 2014, the implications for international students, and the debate surrounding political correctness on campuses. Her findings challenge us to consider the cost of globalization on free thought in education.

In this engaging discussion, Eric Topol—a renowned cardiologist and digital health innovator—dives into the complexities of aging and the power of AI in healthcare. He highlights the importance of lifestyle factors and critiques the overemphasis on genetic testing. Topol warns against ultra-processed foods and champions GLP-1 drugs for healthier eating. The conversation also touches on the significance of sleep, diet choices, and social connections in promoting longevity, along with the groundbreaking potential of personalized medicine in cancer prevention.

Isabelle Boemeke, a nuclear electricity educator and author of "Rad Future," passionately advocates for nuclear energy as a key solution to climate change. She explores its potential to power cities, desalinate water, and create carbon-free fertilizer while addressing safety concerns and waste management myths. Boemeke shares her journey from fashion modeling to nuclear advocacy, emphasizing how microreactors and social media can reshape public perception. She calls for a reevaluation of nuclear's role in sustainable energy amidst growing global demands.

In this enlightening discussion, Eric Heinze, a Professor of Law and Humanities at Queen Mary University of London, argues for a fresh approach to wokeness. He suggests the left must fully confront its historical injustices—from Stalin to North Korea—while also addressing contemporary issues like the Ukraine war and leftist antisemitism. Heinze advocates for a nuanced understanding of past atrocities and the importance of self-critique within progressive politics to reclaim an ethical stance. His insights promise to reshape how the left engages with its legacy.

Christian Smith, a prominent sociologist and director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame, examines the significant decline of traditional religion in America. He discusses how younger generations are increasingly identifying as 'spiritual but not religious,' influenced by societal changes and scandals in organized religion. Smith highlights the impact of globalization, rising secularism, and shifting values, revealing how these cultural trends are reshaping the spiritual landscape and raising questions about the future of faith.

Sophia Rosenfeld, a Professor of History at the University of Pennsylvania and author of "The Age of Choice," discusses how our understanding of freedom has evolved. She examines the historical roots of choice from the Enlightenment to the present, highlighting its implications on personal identity and autonomy. The conversation delves into the commercialization of choices, the dynamics of gender roles, and the impact of the feminist movement. Rosenfeld also tackles the complexities of choice in areas like dating and reproductive rights, revealing how overwhelming options can shape contemporary life.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Lord Martin Rees, a leading cosmologist and former Astronomer Royal, dives into humanity's quest to understand the universe and ourselves. He tackles Fermi's Paradox and what the silence of extraterrestrial civilizations means for us. Rees reflects on his collaboration with Stephen Hawking, shares views on the ethical implications of AI, and explores the delicate balance between moral progress and technological risks. His insights challenge listeners to consider how our beliefs shape our understanding of existence and the future.

In this insightful discussion, Steven Sloman, a cognitive sciences professor at Brown University and author of 'The Cost of Conviction,' explores how our values shape decision-making. He contrasts consequentialism with sacred values, highlighting how misapplied beliefs often fuel social polarization. Sloman discusses the interplay of emotions, the impact of heuristics on moral judgments, and the ethical complexities surrounding issues like the death penalty and transgender rights. His insights challenge listeners to rethink their approach to ethics and decision-making.

Debra Soh, a renowned neuroscientist and author of "The End of Gender," discusses the evolving dynamics of sex and gender at FreedomFest 2025. She emphasizes the importance of healthy dialogue around gender ideology, the impact of pornography on youth, and the motivations behind college women entering sex work. The conversation also unpacks the differences in sexual strategies between men and women, highlighting emotional consequences and challenges in dating behaviors. Soh advocates for open communication about sexuality to navigate these complex societal issues.