The Michael Shermer Show

Edward Goldberg, an expert in international political economy and professor at NYU, delves into America's rise as the global liberal hegemon, examining its economic and political advantages post-World War II. He addresses the U.S. role as the world’s central banker and its implications for citizens. Discussions include the future of U.S. global dominance amidst rising powers, the complexities of climate change management, and the influence of the 2024 election on foreign policy. Goldberg advocates for a reevaluation of individualism versus social cohesion in shaping American identity.

Talia Lavin, author of "Wild Faith," investigates the Christian Right's escalating influence in America. She discusses its historical roots, like the impact of desegregation and cultural phenomena such as the Satanic Panic. Lavin highlights crucial issues including the movement's role in shaping abortion rights and LGBTQ+ policies. Their conversation explores the apocalyptic beliefs driving political agendas, the control of female sexuality, and the unheard voices caught in this ideological tumult, questioning if democracy can withstand this formidable force.

Mark Weinstein, a tech entrepreneur and privacy expert, discusses his book Restoring Our Sanity Online, which addresses the urgent need for a redesign of social platforms to enhance mental health and privacy. He delves into the mental health crisis among teens, advocating for balanced tech use and authentic communication. The conversation covers the dangers of surveillance capitalism, the potential of Web3 for data ownership, and the importance of community-driven social media over individualism. Weinstein also highlights innovative strategies to combat misinformation and create equitable online spaces.

Join bestselling author Neal Stephenson, known for his groundbreaking works in science fiction, as he explores a variety of fascinating topics. Delve into the ethics of atomic weaponry and the nuances of game theory in nuclear deterrence. Discover his predictions about cryptocurrency and the metaverse, particularly in light of recent controversies. Stephenson also discusses the concept of the singularity and its implications for identity and memory. Plus, he examines the evolving landscape of democracy and politics through a philosophical lens.

Terry Sejnowski, a pioneering computational neuroscientist and Francis Crick Chair at The Salk Institute, discusses the fascinating intersection of AI and human cognition. He probes whether large language models truly understand language or merely reflect human intelligence. Exploring AI's evolution, Sejnowski emphasizes the need for robust definitions and mathematical foundations. He also addresses the ethical dilemmas of AI, such as alignment with human values, biases, and the consequences of superintelligent systems, urging a careful approach to AI development.

Tara Smith, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin, dives into the complexities of the First Amendment and free speech. She discusses historical figures like Locke and Jefferson while tackling modern issues like cancel culture and social media censorship. Smith explores the critical distinction between speech and action, the implications of freedom in different societies, and the responsibilities of individuals in understanding their rights. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for a free press and personal accountability in the age of misinformation.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Bernstein, an experimental psychologist and Assistant Professor at Brown University, explores the intriguing world of the nocebo effect and how negative expectations can manifest as real health issues. He recounts a mysterious outbreak in a 1960s U.S. textile factory, illustrating the power of belief on the body. Bernstein also delves into the ethical nuances of placebo use and shares insights on leveraging these effects to combat the opioid crisis, emphasizing the complex relationship between psychology and health.

Paul Seabright, a Professor of Economics at the University of Toulouse, discusses the surprising similarities between religions and businesses. He reveals how religious organizations accumulate wealth and power through competitive strategies, comparing their community functions to modern platforms. The conversation dives into the financial dynamics of tithing versus taxation and the political influence of religious movements, including the rise of Christian nationalism. Seabright also explores the dual role of faith in fostering community and personal growth while addressing deep-rooted issues in institutional structures.

Max Boot, a historian and author of a defining biography of Ronald Reagan, dives into the complex life of the actor-turned-president. He discusses Reagan's surprising anti-nuclear stance shaped by personal experiences, alongside his political evolution from liberalism to conservatism. Boot highlights key moments, including Reagan's relationships with Gorbachev and Margaret Thatcher, and the transformative leadership that eased Cold War tensions. The conversation also touches on the current state of conservatism and the challenges facing today's Republican Party.

Adam Kirsch, an accomplished author and editor at the Wall Street Journal, dives into the complexities of settler colonialism and its present-day relevance. He discusses how this concept is reshaping conversations about the history of the U.S. and Israel-Palestine. Kirsch critiques historical narratives, particularly their role in anti-Semitism. He explores the modern implications of these colonial legacies, especially for indigenous rights and environmental issues, advocating for a nuanced understanding of justice and coexistence.