The Michael Shermer Show

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.

Douglas Murray, a bestselling author and associate editor at The Spectator, dives deep into the recent violence in Israel and Gaza, unraveling its historical context. He shares exclusive accounts from victims and perpetrators following the October 7 massacre. The conversation delves into the troubling support for Hamas and the ramifications of Iran's nuclear ambitions on regional stability. Murray critiques the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including media representation and the faltering two-state solution, offering a nuanced perspective on extremism and democracy.

Joining the discussion is Michael Patrick Lynch, a distinguished philosophy professor and author of "On Truth in Politics." He tackles the vital role of truth in democratic governance, arguing that truth is essential, not optional, in politics. Lynch explores the complex relationship between scientific truths and political beliefs, especially regarding climate change. He highlights the dangers of social media and the 'post-truth' world and emphasizes the need for better epistemic infrastructure to foster informed political discourse. It's a thought-provoking look at why truth matters now more than ever.

In a riveting discussion, neurosurgeon Michael Egnor and neuroscientist Christof Koch tackle the profound questions surrounding the mind, soul, and consciousness. Egnor argues for a dualistic view informed by Thomistic philosophy, while Koch brings insights from neuroscience about the nature of consciousness. They delve into the implications of brain anomalies on faith, the complexities of artificial intelligence, and the nuances of near-death experiences. Their debate challenges listeners to rethink existence, free will, and what it means to be human.

In this engaging discussion, Amy Alkon, an investigative science writer and author of "Going Menopostal," shares her unexpected journey through menopause. She reveals how outdated medical advice often leaves women misinformed and unprepared. Alkon emphasizes the importance of understanding perimenopause and advocates for empowering women to ask pertinent questions to their healthcare providers. With humor and clarity, she tackles the gaps in medical understanding, dietary considerations, and the emotional impact of this significant life transition.

Andrew Doyle, a writer, satirist, and creator of Titania McGrath, joins the discussion to unravel the concept of 'woke.' He reflects on its transformation from social awareness to a tool for censorship and critiques contemporary interpretations of liberal values. The conversation dives into historical figures like Shakespeare and Milton to illuminate today's cultural dynamics. Moreover, Doyle calls for a return to classical liberalism while tackling issues like equality versus meritocracy and the complexities surrounding transgender rights, aiming for a more balanced societal discourse.