The Michael Shermer Show

Ashlen Hilliard, a cult intervention specialist and founder of People Leave Cults, dives deep into the psychology behind cults and high-control groups. She discusses why intelligent people join these groups, unwittingly seeking positive outcomes, and highlights the trauma-coerced attachment that traps them. Ashlen shares strategies for families to support loved ones in cults, emphasizing the need for curiosity and understanding. Explaining the dynamics of coercion, she also connects exploitation in cults to broader societal issues, urging for greater awareness and education.

Mark Skousen, a renowned economist and author, shares his insights as a descendant of Benjamin Franklin. He discusses Franklin's groundbreaking contributions to science and economics, including his experiments with mesmerism and electricity. Skousen compares Franklin's forward-thinking views on commerce and currency with those of Jefferson, and debates Franklin's evolving positions on slavery and race. They explore how Franklin's principles apply to modern issues, such as fiscal conservatism and immigration, making his legacy relevant in today’s world.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease epidemiologist and director of CIDRAP, shares his insights on handling pandemics. He discusses the enduring nature of COVID-19 and critiques initial miscalculations regarding lockdowns. Osterholm warns about future pandemics and emphasizes the need for improved public health messaging, effective vaccines, and strong infrastructure. He also highlights the real risks posed by airborne viruses and calls for a bipartisan review to prepare for the next major outbreak.

In this engaging conversation, Steven Pinker, a renowned cognitive psychologist and Harvard professor, delves into the intricate world of common knowledge. He discusses how our social interactions rely on nuanced signals like laughter and eye contact. Pinker explores the implications of common knowledge in relationships and societal norms, including the dynamics of cancel culture and the complexities of money's value. He highlights the hidden logic behind everyday life, revealing how common knowledge shapes our understanding of financial systems, political movements, and even personal connections.

Jim Lampley, a Hall of Fame sportscaster with a remarkable 50-year career, shares captivating insights from his life in sports journalism. He reflects on his journey from the first sideline reporter to a veteran of major events like the Super Bowl and 14 Olympics. Lampley discusses the brilliance of athletes like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, emphasizes the unexpected twists of life, and addresses the ethics of performance-enhancing drugs. He also recounts personal anecdotes about O.J. Simpson and Jack Nicholson, offering a unique look into the world of sports.

In a thought-provoking solo commentary, the host delves into the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, exploring the background of the suspect and their chilling text exchanges. The conversation shifts to the psychology behind radicalization, particularly among young men seeking status, and the dangerous allure of extremist beliefs. Free speech versus incitement is scrutinized, emphasizing the importance of truth in discussions. Finally, the potential repercussions on campus discourse and the broader implications for political dialogue are examined.

Nicholas Wade, a renowned science writer and author, delves into how human nature profoundly influences political structures and societal norms. He argues that ignoring these biological underpinnings leads to political pitfalls. Topics include the interplay between genetics and political beliefs, the role of religion in social cohesion, and the evolution of morality. Wade also explores gender dynamics and the challenges posed by modern governance, emphasizing that understanding our evolutionary past is key to addressing contemporary political issues.

Jean Twenge, a psychology professor at San Diego State University and author of influential books on technology's impact on youth, dives into the challenges parents face today. She discusses the emotional pitfalls of AI-driven chat apps and how they may distort children's perceptions of relationships. Twenge also addresses the alarming links between social media use and mental health decline, advocating for safer alternatives to smartphones. With practical advice, she empowers parents to navigate and protect their kids in this high-tech world.

Alan Stern, a renowned planetary scientist and leader of NASA’s New Horizons mission, shares thrilling insights from his recent suborbital flight. He dives into the clash between government and private space ventures, emphasizing the rapid innovation in commercial space activities. Stern discusses the unfortunate budget cuts threatening NASA's future missions. He also explores the significance of ongoing extraterrestrial research and the potential for inspiring future generations in STEM through space exploration.

Madeleine Beekman, professor emerita of evolutionary biology at the University of Sydney and author of The Origin of Language, discusses the unexpected origins of human language. She argues that the need to care for highly dependent infants drove early humans to communicate more effectively. This necessity for cooperation led to the development of language, fundamentally changing society. Beekman also explores the evolutionary journey of language, contrasting it with animal communication and examining how our brain's complexity plays a crucial role in social interaction.