The Michael Shermer Show

Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and writer for The Atlantic, tackles the decline of Christianity and its implications for American democracy. He critiques both weak Christianity and the rise of a fear-driven evangelicalism that strays from core Christian values. Rauch emphasizes the need for a cooperative effort between secular and Christian communities to address this crisis. He argues that understanding the importance of healthy religious institutions is vital for preserving liberal democracy, advocating for a return to foundational teachings that promote freedom and moral integrity.

Dr. Rachel Toles, a licensed forensic psychologist known for her work on trauma and addiction, explores the dark psychology behind infamous killers. She discusses the intersection of childhood trauma and violent behavior, analyzing notorious figures like Jeffrey Dahmer and the Menendez Brothers. Toles reveals her proprietary formula for understanding evil, debunking stereotypes about psychopathy. The conversation dives into societal influences, the nature of accountability, and why ordinary people can commit horrific acts, leaving listeners both disturbed and enlightened.

Ariel Zeleznikow-Johnston, a neuroscientist from Monash University, dives deep into the intriguing questions surrounding consciousness and immortality. He challenges the notion that death is essential for a meaningful life. The conversation explores the mind-body problem, the intricacies of personal identity, and the potential for life-extension technologies. Zeleznikow-Johnston also discusses the connectome's role in memories and identity, as well as the philosophical implications of consciousness and the future of longevity. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey into the science of forever!

Kurt Gray, a psychology and neuroscience professor at UNC Chapel Hill, dives into the fascinating world of moral psychology. He challenges the notion that liberals and conservatives have entirely opposing moral frameworks, revealing that everyone's judgments come from feelings of vulnerability. Gray discusses how perceptions of who the 'real' victim is can ignite moral outrage in various contexts. He also explores the evolution of human emotions like guilt and anger and emphasizes the importance of empathy in political discussions to foster understanding.

Erick Brimen, founder of Prospera, shares his vision for creating Special Economic Zones that enhance economic growth through free-market principles. He discusses the governance challenges in developing nations, using Venezuela's economic struggles as a cautionary tale. Brimen contrasts these with successful models like Dubai and Hong Kong, showcasing how tailored governance can drive prosperity. He also touches on labor rights in Prospera zones and the innovative concepts behind proprietary communities, emphasizing the importance of good governance and local development.

William Green, author of 'Richer, Wiser, Happier,' shares insights from his interviews with legendary investors like Buffett and Munger. He discusses how their unique skills, such as resilience and critical thinking, extend beyond wealth, helping us navigate life's uncertainties. Green elaborates on the influence of luck and timing in success, the importance of recognizing biases in decision-making, and the interplay between money, happiness, and ethical investing. His experiences shed light on the essential habits for financial independence.

Joshua Greene, a Harvard psychology professor, dives into the complexities of moral psychology and effective charity. He unveils how some charities are 100 times more effective than others, urging smarter donations. The conversation touches on the balance between local and global giving, ethical dilemmas like abortion and animal welfare, and the emotional versus rational aspects of philanthropy. Greene emphasizes the importance of cooperation to tackle societal divides, all while advocating for a pragmatic approach to ethics in a polarized world.

Amir Raz, a cognitive psychologist and author of "The Suggestible Brain," explores how suggestions shape behavior, beliefs, and memory. He discusses the evolutionary benefits of suggestibility and its potential downsides, using examples from hypnosis and authority experiments, like Milgram's. Raz highlights the power of expectation on perception and how understanding suggestion can enhance mental resilience. He also connects magic with psychology, revealing how both fields share insights into human cognition and belief systems.

Guy P. Harrison, an award-winning author known for promoting critical thinking, joins the discussion to reveal how science fiction fuels human imagination and progress. The conversation delves into the societal impacts of sci-fi and its reflection on technological aspirations. They tackle the nuanced dialogues around religion and evolution, the mysteries of UAPs, and address human irrationality through Huxley’s insights. Harrison maintains a hopeful outlook on humanity's future amid existential threats like AI, blending humor with deep philosophical inquiry.

Daniel Waldenström, an economist focused on the evolution of Western economic landscapes, discusses how wealth distribution and a robust middle class emerged through political changes. He emphasizes the importance of effective social policies for shared prosperity, balancing wealth accumulation with entrepreneurship. Waldenström highlights shifts in wealth since the 1800s, linking them to education and property rights. He also critiques wealth taxation and advocates for capital income taxes, while exploring strategies for developing nations to achieve economic stability.