Breaking beliefism

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.

Join Cass Sunstein, a Harvard professor and nudge theory pioneer, as he explores the fascinating interplay between habituation and human experiences. He shares insights on how adapting to life dulls our sensitivity to joy and sorrow. Sunstein also discusses navigating success, emphasizing the often-overlooked role of luck. With anecdotes about the emotional impacts of music and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives, this conversation is a thought-provoking dive into personal reflection and societal narratives.

Chloe Combi, an author and expert on Generations Z and A, explores the influences of technology and social media on today's youth. She discusses generational differences in attitudes towards work and relationships, emphasizing how digital natives experience identity and gender dynamics. Chloe highlights the importance of intergenerational understanding in workplaces while advocating for open dialogue in discussions about controversial topics. The conversation also lightens up with insights into evolving musical tastes, including personal reflections on Coldplay.

Fraser Nelson, a distinguished journalist and former editor of The Spectator, delves into compelling discussions about the significant impact of family structure on child outcomes. He addresses the obsession with formal education and advocates for evidence-based educational reforms. The conversation takes a deep dive into how the COVID pandemic has reshaped our relationship with the state and exposed growing political polarization. Nelson emphasizes the need for moderation and diverse dialogue to bridge divides in today’s society.

In this episode, Professor Paul Dolan talks to comedian Geoff Norcott. They discuss teaching, class, taxation and whether trance is the best music genre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Times columnist James Marriott shares his insights on the evolving landscape of British dining, from eating out as a basic need to a cherished social experience. They discuss the generational shifts in political views, particularly among Gen Z, and the impact of popular culture on beliefs. Marriott also tackles the complex relationship between politics and romance, exploring how differing views challenge modern dating dynamics. The episode wraps up with a reflection on nostalgia and music's emotional power, particularly through Coldplay.