The Michael Shermer Show

In this discussion, Gary Marcus, a prominent AI researcher and author, shares his concerns about AI's potential to both advance society and pose existential threats. He highlights the dangers of unchecked AI power, urging vigilance against Big Tech’s influence on policy. Marcus provides eight solutions to prevent disaster, including strict oversight and data rights. The conversation also delves into moral implications, misinformation, the need for international governance, and how citizens can advocate for responsible AI development. Are we ready for the AI future?

Join cognitive psychologist Steven Pinker, known for his best-selling works on human nature, and author Matt Ridley, famous for his optimistic take on progress, as they tackle essential topics. They discuss the lessons from COVID-19 and the importance of data-driven public health decisions. The conversation delves into the debates surrounding DEI in academia, the dynamics of human behavior influenced by genetics, and the optimistic potential of artificial intelligence to enhance human rationality and innovation.

Matthew Stewart, an independent philosopher and historian known for his writings on the philosophical roots of the American Republic, discusses the Enlightenment's impact on America's founding. He explores the moral contradictions of slavery and its influence on the Civil War, spotlighting abolitionists like John Brown and Frederick Douglass. The conversation uncovers the intertwining of philosophy and religion in shaping civil society and advocates for a nuanced understanding of democracy, equality, and individual rights in the context of American history.

In this engaging discussion, Jeffrey J. Kripal, an author and scholar at Rice University, delves into the fascinating intersection of the impossible and the real. He explores phenomena like precognitive dreams and near-death experiences, demonstrating how belief systems shape our understanding of reality. Kripal challenges traditional notions of the paranormal versus the supernatural, and discusses UFOs as potential symbols of future technologies rather than extraterrestrial encounters. He emphasizes a humanistic approach to alien communication and the deeper implications of belief and consciousness.

A sensational interview with Darryl Cooper on Tucker Carlson's show raises alarms about historical revisionism, particularly regarding the Holocaust and World War II. The discussion critiques Carlson's deliberate misinformation and highlights the dangers of pseudohistory in modern media. Personal accounts of wartime atrocities reveal the emotional toll on those involved, while a deep dive into Nazi ideology exposes the chilling mindset behind horrific actions. The importance of accurate historical representation and recognizing our shared humanity is emphasized throughout.

Will Gervais, a renowned cultural evolutionary psychologist, explores the complex relationship between religious belief and atheism. He delves into how emotions and social environments shape individual belief systems, dissecting the cognitive science behind faith. Gervais reveals the rising prevalence of atheism, influenced by cultural and generational shifts, while addressing misconceptions about non-believers. The discussion also covers the social implications of atheism and strategies for navigating religious divides in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

Ben Goertzel, a Brazilian-born multidisciplinary scientist and entrepreneur, discusses the future of AI and its impact on humanity. He explores the nuances of intelligence, comparing human and artificial minds in creative fields. The conversation dives into the unpredictability of AGI development and the philosophical implications of consciousness. Goertzel also addresses how advancements in technology could enhance longevity and reshape governance, while considering the ethical responsibilities of AGI. His insights challenge traditional notions and advocate for a deeper understanding of intelligence and sentience.

In this intriguing discussion, UFOlogist Lue Elizondo, known for his claims about U.S. government knowledge of extraterrestrial intelligence, dives deep into the world of UAPs. He questions the credibility of sensational stories, examining figures like Bob Lazar and Travis Walton. Elizondo tackles skepticism in the scientific community, emphasizing the need for credible evidence to back extraordinary claims. The conversation explores the implications of possible alien contact, stirring curiosity about what might be humanity’s greatest discovery.

Discover the intricate dynamics of Critical Social Justice as experts unpack its influence on workplaces and education. Delve into the financial growth of the DEI industry and the ethical dilemmas it presents. Learn about navigating pronoun requests while preserving personal integrity. Explore the complexities of privilege in social justice narratives and the troubling rise of anti-Semitism intertwined with activism. Lastly, gain insights into the critique of ideologies in academia and the consequences of dissenting opinions.

In this enlightening discussion, Tiffany Thayer, an adman and writer who founded the Fortean Society, delves into the captivating world of Charles Fort. They explore Fort's unique philosophy that merges science with the unusual, examining how it inspired skeptics, science fiction, and UFO enthusiasts. Topics include the evolution of cryptid myths, the intertwining of Cold War anxieties with UFO phenomena, and the challenge of mainstream skepticism against Fortian ideals. This conversation offers fascinating insights into the bizarre intersections of truth, belief, and imagination.