The Michael Shermer Show

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.

Phil Gramm, a retired U.S. senator and economics professor, joins Donald J. Boudreaux, a noted economist and author, to dissect the interplay between capitalism and government intervention throughout American history. They discuss how key events like the Industrial Revolution and Great Depression shaped perceptions of government roles. The duo argues against common beliefs about income inequality and welfare, advocating for personal responsibility and the transformative power of capitalism. Their insights challenge the conventional narratives on economic policies and social mobility.

Niayesh Afshordi, a physicist from the University of Waterloo, and Phil Halper, a popular science communicator, dive into the cosmos' biggest mysteries. They explore intriguing theories like cyclic universes, black hole births, and the multiverse. The duo discusses the evolution of the Big Bang theory, the concept of singularities, and how new research could challenge our understanding. With a blend of science and philosophy, they highlight the wonder of exploring cosmic origins, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.

Matthew Hongoltz-Hetling, a freelance journalist and author of 'The Ghost Lab', dives into the quirky world of modern paranormal beliefs. He discusses a ghost lab in New Hampshire that aimed to document spirits scientifically but attracted a mix of paranormal enthusiasts. The conversation highlights the clash between personal experiences and scientific skepticism, exploring how media shapes our beliefs in the supernatural. From ghost hunting to alien abductions, Hongoltz-Hetling unravels the intriguing relationship between these beliefs and societal trust in science.