The Michael Shermer Show

Ben Westhoff, a best-selling investigative journalist, discusses the fentanyl crisis that claimed over 107,000 American lives last year alone. He reveals the dangerous evolution of rave culture and how fentanyl is now often mixed with meth and cocaine. Westhoff shares insights from clandestine lab visits in China and the alarming rise of this potent drug, highlighting the role of cartels and the complexities of addiction. His experiences show the intricate, devastating impact of fentanyl on society and the pressing need for reform in drug policy.

Dr. Warren Hern, a dedicated scientist and advocate for women’s reproductive rights, discusses his book about the realities of abortion care before and after Roe v. Wade. He shares harrowing personal experiences protecting patients from protesters and highlights the dire consequences of Roe's dismantling. Hern emphasizes the crucial role of safe abortion services in public health, critiques misleading pro-life rhetoric, and urges for political action to safeguard women's healthcare and autonomy, revealing the urgent need for compassion and understanding in this polarized landscape.

Reflecting on the significance of upcoming elections, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and historical insights from past elections dating back to 1972. They discuss the growing political divides from the 1960s through the 1990s, shaped by events like the Vietnam War and Watergate. The podcast analyzes the political economy from Obama to Trump, highlighting the impact on social unrest. Emphasizing civil discourse, it tackles extreme rhetoric and reactions post-January 6th, advocating for a recognition of shared humanity across political divides.

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.