Breaking beliefism

In this episode, Professor Paul Dolan talks to political psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Leor Zmigrod about how neuroscience can shed light on our beliefs and the extremes we sometimes cling to. Leor believes that ideologies restrict our capacity to be free but Paul is not so sure.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Professor Paul Dolan talks to Sami Tamimi, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. They discuss Sami’s childhood in Iraq, explore the complexities of mental health diagnoses, and whether mental health has been commodified.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan Ariely, a behavioral economics professor at Duke University, shares his unique insights shaped by his recovery from severe burns. He discusses how pain management informs his research and the need for better healthcare practices for terminally ill patients. The conversation delves into the meaning of living fully amidst illness, self-acceptance, and the ethical dilemmas of assisted dying. Ariely also challenges traditional views on legacy, urging a focus on present connections and the importance of dialogue in understanding diverse beliefs.

Professor Paul Dolan opens season four of Breaking Beliefism by talking to Anneliese Dodds, Labour MP for Oxford East and a former Government minister. They discuss the importance of nuanced political discourse versus performative politics, and consider why wellbeing isn’t taken more seriously by policymakers.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Looking back on season 3, where I spoke to scientists, academics, journalists, and a comedian. We discussed themes such as the shifting political landscape among young people, the decline of democracy, the significance of narratives, and why we hate the narrative of randomness so much. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Paul Sagar, a Reader in Political Theory at King's College London, shares his insights on philosophy and political equality, shaped by his experience with tetraplegia after a climbing accident. He delves into the often-misunderstood works of Adam Smith, advocating for a nuanced interpretation. The discussion touches on the complex interplay of hope and acceptance following tragedy and the importance of personal choice in life and death matters. Sagar also examines the challenges of democracy in increasingly tribal societies, calling for greater inclusivity and understanding.

In this engaging discussion, Tali Sharot, a neuroscientist renowned for her work at UCL and MIT, delves into the intersection of emotion and decision-making. She explores how our habits shape our ability to appreciate life's small joys. The conversation turns to the psychology of lying—how repetition makes it easier—and highlights the role of social media in fostering narcissism. Sharot also examines the comfort of deep-rooted beliefs, even in the face of scientific evidence, and offers insights on navigating complex relationships with humor.

Adam Kucharski, a mathematician and epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, explores the intersection of data, belief, and public health. He discusses how understanding gambling strategies can illuminate mathematical thinking. The conversation delves into how attachment styles influence health decisions and the role of AI in improving decision-making. Kucharski also examines how social networks shape beliefs and the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding epidemics, wrapping up with a fun discussion on music preferences.

Tom Davenport, a leading expert in AI and author of 'All Hands On Tech', shares his insights on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. He discusses the shift from rigid rule-based systems to more flexible, data-driven analysis. The conversation dives into AI's transformative effects on education and job markets, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and human engagement. Davenport also reflects on the dual nature of AI, considering its potential benefits while addressing societal concerns and the need for creativity in its implementation.

In this discussion, Chris Kavanagh, an anthropologist at Oxford, dives into the world of secular gurus, illustrating how social media has heightened their impact. He examines the distinctions between these modern influencers and traditional intellectuals, highlighting their compelling characteristics. The conversation also touches on the role of experts during the pandemic, their expanded influence, and the dangers of mistaking confidence for knowledge. Kavanagh urges for open-mindedness to better navigate beliefs and viewpoints within our polarized society.