The Michael Shermer Show

A conversation with Warren Commission Assistant Counsel Burt W. Griffin, Case Closed author and Lee Harvey Oswald scholar Gerald Posner, and JFK conspiracy theory debunker Michel Gagné. They discuss: the nostalgic myth of “Camelot”, Lee Harvey Oswald and why he killed Kennedy, Cuba and the Bay of Pigs debacle, the CIA and their skeptical activities, the “magic bullet,” FBI coverups, witness intimidation, and evidence tampering.

Astrophysicist Adam Frank discusses the search for alien life and the lack of hard evidence in UFO research. The importance of scientific consensus in the search for extraterrestrial life is highlighted. The chapter explores interstellar travel challenges and possibilities. The speakers discuss the concept of techno-signatures and the transition of biological life to artificial intelligence. The fascination with ancient aliens and the need for scientific skepticism are explored. The chapter concludes by discussing the possibility of human colonization in the solar system.

In this podcast, Michael Shermer addresses Ayaan Hirsi Ali's decision to convert to Christianity despite her previous work defending women's rights. He explores the limitations of atheism as a belief system and discusses the threats Western civilization is facing. Shermer emphasizes the role of Enlightenment humanism in moral progress and highlights the significance of scientific naturalism in contributing to justice and freedom.

The podcast explores the intertwined narratives of UFOs and the search for extraterrestrial life, delving into the history of UFOs and the scientific quest for intelligent life. It discusses the misleading portrayal of alien contact in Hollywood and various possible explanations for UFO sightings. The intriguing case of Lonnie Zamora's UFO encounter is explored, as well as the Galileo Project and the significance of private financing for scientific research on UFOs. The speakers also discuss the future of the topic and express concerns about societal challenges.

The podcast discusses the shift in left-leaning perspectives from universal aspirations to identity-based interpretations. It explores the controversies surrounding student groups and moral relativism. They argue against the notion of a homogeneous black community and highlight the impact of identity politics on education. The term 'woke' is explored, along with concerns about democracy and potential election controversies. The cult-like following of Donald Trump and the need for stronger messaging from Democrats are also discussed. The importance of being sensibly moderate while preserving liberal values is emphasized.

Dan Ariely, behavioral economist and bestselling author, joins Michael Shermer to discuss disinformation, misbelief factors, the role of complex stories, social proof, and the influence of others on our beliefs. They also explore social media companies' responsibility for disinformation and what it would take to change their minds.

Shermer and Taleblu discuss Iran's role in the Israel-Hamas conflict, the translation debate on Iran's intentions towards Israel, the spread of Sharia law, the effectiveness of economic sanctions against Iran, the state of American democracy, the complexities of the Iran-Israel conflict, and the trustworthiness of news outlets in the new media space.

Lisa Manfull and Michael Shermer discuss the feminine approach to espionage and finding Osama Bin Laden. They explore the skills needed to be a spy, the restrictions on women advancing in the CIA, and the contributions of women in the intelligence community during historical events such as World War II and 9/11.

The podcast explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including the origins and goals of Hamas, the flawed narrative of Israel as the oppressor, and the complexities of finding a solution. It delves into the intricate history of land ownership in Israel and critiques religious claims. The accusation of Israel being an apartheid state is examined, and the US-Saudi relationship is questioned. The moral obligation of America to support freedom and the influence of academia on cancel culture are also discussed.

Greg Lukianoff, co-author of 'The Coddling of the American Mind', joins Michael Shermer and Rikki Schlott to discuss cancel culture. Topics covered include the definition of cancel culture, the left and right utilizing cancel culture, free speech law vs. norms, diversity and inclusion, generational change, and solutions to cancel culture.