
Based Camp | Simone & Malcolm Collins
Based Camp is a podcast focused on how humans process the world around them and the future of our species. That means we go into everything from human sexuality, to weird sub-cultures, dating markets, philosophy, and politics.
Malcolm and Simone are a husband wife team of a neuroscientist and marketer turned entrepreneurs and authors. With graduate degrees from Stanford and Cambridge under their belts as well as five bestselling books, one of which topped out the WSJs nonfiction list, they are widely known (if infamous) intellectuals / provocateurs.
If you want to dig into their ideas further or check citations on points they bring up check out their book series. Note: They all sell for a dollar or so and the money made from them goes to charity. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08FMWMFTG basedcamppodcast.substack.com
Latest episodes

Dec 24, 2024 • 60min
The UN's Attempts to Control Anime: The Battle Against Cultural Hegemony in Media
Dive into the intricate world of Japanese art vs. Western media pressures. Explore how cultural tensions impact creativity, from 'woke' culture’s grip on industry to the UN's scrutiny of anime and its portrayal of gender roles. Discover the nuances of censorship in manga and the clash of traditional storytelling with modern values. Unpack the complexities of parenting in today’s society, emphasizing teaching responsibility and financial independence. Enjoy lighthearted chats about cooking and childhood aspirations along the way.

Dec 23, 2024 • 1h 43min
Did Christians Outbreed the Competition? Scott Alexander & Rodney Stark's Rise of Christianity
The discussion revolves around Scott Alexander's insights on the rapid spread of early Christianity, highlighting how fertility rates and effective social networks played pivotal roles. Rather than relying solely on miracles, factors such as higher birth rates among Christians and their ability to attract women significantly influenced growth. The podcast also explores the shifting roles of women in early Christian communities, contrasting them with pagan practices, and examines the socio-cultural dynamics of ancient Rome that set the stage for this transformation.

Dec 21, 2024 • 49min
Brett Cooper: Can You Steal an Online Identity?
Dive into the intriguing departure of conservative influencer Brett Cooper from a major media outlet. Explore her rise to fame, the gossip surrounding her exit, and what it means for the conservative media landscape. Unpack audience expectations versus traditional influencer narratives, and laugh along with humorous critiques of online identity. Plus, discuss the evolving dynamics of YouTube success and beauty standards in society. It’s a blend of humor, analysis, and cultural commentary that keeps you on your toes!

5 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 9min
Weird Data: Same Sex Attracted Men Not Gay?
Dive into the complex world of human sexuality, where not everyone attracted to the same sex identifies as gay. Discover how societal perceptions shape personal identities, especially among those choosing heterosexual lives, like some Mormon men. The discussion challenges rigid sexual labels, revealing a spectrum of attractions and the cultural tensions surrounding them. Explore the balance between personal freedom and societal expectations in relationships, while emphasizing that life is about more than just physical connections.

Dec 19, 2024 • 55min
Memetic Weaponization of Teen Girl Rage: The Tragic Case of Natalie Rupnow
Dive into the tragic case of Natalie Rupnow, a teenager at the center of a school shooting. Discover the complexities surrounding her forged manifesto and the societal misconceptions tied to her identity. Explore themes like youth nihilism, familial influences, and the impact of internet culture on teenage emotions. The discussion sheds light on the struggles of self-image among young girls, along with the dangers of feeling disconnected in today's world. Reflect on the broader implications for future generations caught in a cycle of despair.

7 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h
Why Do Jews Have Friends? The Religious Anthropology of Friendship & Family
The discussion delves into the contrasting views on friendship and family in Jewish and American Protestant cultures. It highlights how Jewish holidays encourage inviting non-family members, contrasting with the family-oriented approach typical in certain Christian traditions. Personal anecdotes enrich the exploration of emotional complexities in communal gatherings. Additional insights into cultural behaviors reveal how social dynamics shape connections, emphasizing the importance of chosen friendships over obligatory family ties. This fascinating comparison also touches on introversion and the nuances of cultural narratives.

Dec 17, 2024 • 51min
Everest: The Longest Line of Selfish Egotists on Earth
Controversy brews around climbing Mount Everest as the hosts argue its immorality. They discuss the severe risks faced by Sherpas and the environmental degradation caused by climbers. An interview with blind climber Eric Weihenmayer sheds light on personal motivations versus ethical implications. Humorously critiquing commercialization, they imagine absurd scenarios like escalators on the mountain. The conversation delves into the egotism of climbers and the societal shift towards individualism, prompting a re-evaluation of ambition versus community values.

23 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 1h 1min
We Raised a Generation of Hikikomori: Gentle Parenting Failed Gen Alpha
The podcast dives into alarming youth mental health statistics, challenging the notion that social media is the main culprit. It criticizes gentle parenting for contributing to rising anxiety and school absenteeism. With anecdotes from the pandemic and a look at changing cultural dynamics, the hosts highlight the importance of discipline and resilience. They also discuss the need for community support and examine how historical parenting methods contrasted with today's practices. Humorously critiquing societal changes, they blend insights with playful commentary.

Dec 13, 2024 • 42min
~0.004% of NYCers Commit 33% of Crime
Discover the striking statistic revealing how just 327 individuals account for nearly one-third of shoplifting arrests in New York City. Dive into the implications of crime data, recidivism challenges, and the effectiveness—or lack thereof—of the three-strikes law. Explore the surprising relationship between impulsivity and violent crime origins. Enjoy a humorous take on legal loopholes surrounding infidelity-related murder, and examine corporate crime within the context of remote work. Enjoy a whimsical blend of food and cultural commentary, adding a light-hearted touch to serious topics.

Dec 12, 2024 • 52min
This Video Will Get You on an FBI Watchlist + Leak: Reddit Astroturfed by Feds
A chilling exploration reveals an FBI program labeling mainstream right-wing Americans as terrorists, manipulating language like 'red pilled' to justify these actions. The podcast exposes how government agents may be astroturfing Reddit, eroding authentic discourse. It critiques the broader implications of social media control and the loss of trust in government institutions. Topics also delve into the evolving perceptions of masculinity, dating, and the complexities of modern relationships, ending with personal anecdotes about societal decay.