The Michael Shermer Show

Imagination grows with education and reflection, debunking the myth that children have more expansive imaginations. The podcast explores sexual selection and the Montessori educational system. It emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation of knowledge, interprets different ideas about heaven and the afterlife, and explores the tension between materialism and religious beliefs. The podcast also discusses the importance of literature and fantasy for adults and the balance between realism and imagination in storytelling. It delves into anomalies in scientific theories and how to foster creativity and imagination in individuals.

Nobel Prize-winning economist Angus Deaton discusses his experiences as a naturalized U.S. citizen, the inside story of the Nobel Prize in economics, and tensions between economics and politics. They also explore the impact of minimum wage increase and distribution of profits, challenges of online dating, the impact of the sexual revolution on women, the debate on Universal Basic Income (UBI), the mystery of suicide, globalization and Trump's rise to power, and the value of seeking knowledge.

Philip Goff discusses cosmic purpose, panpsychism, and the limitations of God as an explanation. They explore living in a computer simulation and the universe as a conscious mind. The podcast also covers topics like fine-tuning, free will, consciousness, morality, and the search for meaning in an uncertain universe.

From COVID-19 to climate change, millions of Americans believe things that are simply not true. Political leaders and media organizations capitalize on our social and cultural identities to separate and mobilize us. The increasing polarization between political parties is driven by race, religion, geography, and culture. The concept of intellectual humility in determining truth is explored. The podcast also discusses the rise of political polarization, the impact of social media on mental health, the distribution and ownership of AR 15 rifles, and the evolution of an unpopular product.

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.