Based Camp | Simone & Malcolm Collins
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
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
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 21, 2025 • 1h 3min
Is AI Overhyped? Is AI a Bubble? (New Models Don't "Feel" That Much Better, Why?)
The podcast dives into the hype surrounding AI, questioning its actual impact versus expectations. Discussions reveal concerns about stagnation despite new models rising. Economically, the transformative potential is explored, especially in industries like entertainment and drug development. The social dynamics of AI companionship among teens are examined, highlighting preferences for human interaction. The interplay between imagination and AI leads to whimsical ideas, blending creativity with technology's evolving role.
Aug 20, 2025 • 44min
Why Do We Throw & Bite Babies? (Other than them being delicious)
Discover the intriguing phenomenon of 'cute aggression,' where people express affection for infants through unexpected acts like biting and tossing. Uncover the cultural significance and evolutionary roots of these behaviors, along with humorous personal anecdotes. Delve into the goofy antics of toddlers and how laughter fosters bonding between parents and their little ones. Explore playful discussions about parenting dynamics, the impact of genetics, and the whims of childhood curiosity—all while enjoying engaging insights and delightful revelations!
7 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 46min
Geopolitics Post AI & Birth Rate Collapse
This discussion dives into the intersection of rapid AI development and global fertility declines. It highlights how shrinking birth rates are reshaping geopolitical power, particularly in the Americas and East Asia. The hosts analyze the rise of protectionism in the U.S. and its impact on trade dynamics. They also tackle the social safety nets across various countries, emphasizing transparency and trust. Lastly, they touch on Peru's water crisis and the broader economic implications tied to fertility trends and AI integration.
25 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 54min
Apologizing Makes Women & Lefties Hate You: Why?
Simone and Malcolm dive into the contentious world of public apologies and their repercussions. They discuss how different demographics react, revealing that women and liberals may be more critical. Examples include public figures facing backlash, highlighting the dynamics of in-group and out-group reactions. The conversation also examines the psychology behind social media criticism and the risks of insincerity in apologies. With personal anecdotes, they explore the impact of public personas on likability and the intersection of wealth and attraction in society.
5 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 55min
Should We Revive Dowries and Bride Prices? (Why Selling Your Kids Increased Their Value)
This discussion dives into the cultural significance of dowries and bride prices, questioning their relevance today. The hosts reveal intriguing historical connections, like how dowries influenced the story of Santa Claus. They explore the economic implications of these practices in various societies, particularly in China and India, highlighting modern trends like 'marriage bounties.' Listeners are invited to consider how these traditions impact social structures and family dynamics, offering a thought-provoking perspective on age-old customs.
Aug 14, 2025 • 47min
Rationalist Civil War: God is Real After All?
The discussion highlights a fascinating shift in the rationalist community towards faith, particularly with the rise of AI. Thinkers are exploring how superintelligence might align with divine existence, suggesting that rationality could lead one to believe in God. The hosts humorously navigate differing viewpoints on theology while critiquing biblical interpretations. They also tackle the interplay between morality, spirituality, and advanced technology, questioning how emerging AI might reflect traditional Judeo-Christian values in a modern context.
Aug 13, 2025 • 59min
The Lives Of Those Who Date AIs (Are They On To Something?)
Dive into the intriguing world of AI companions in romantic relationships. Discover how individuals form deep emotional bonds with their AI partners, even embracing dynamics like dom-sub relationships. Explore the fascinating cases of gender transition within these AI connections and the evolving societal views on love. The rise of engagement rings for AI partners illustrates the unique practices emerging in this landscape. Join a humorous yet thought-provoking exploration of the implications these relationships hold for traditional love and companionship in a technology-driven age.
Aug 12, 2025 • 60min
Normies Are Realizing Marriage is Cool (Uh Oh!)
Simone and Malcolm delve into the revival of traditional marriages, examining divorce trends and societal shifts since the 1980s. They discuss the red pill philosophy versus the newfound appreciation for committed relationships among younger generations. The duo critiques modern masculinity, advocating for the stability of two-parent households. They also explore unconventional relationship dynamics and evolving gender roles, alongside cultural marriage practices, all while weighing the practical benefits of marriage in social and economic contexts.
Aug 11, 2025 • 51min
Phrenology is Back, Baby! AI is VERY Good at Making Predictions From Face Scans
The podcast dives into the controversial realm of predicting personal traits from facial features, exploring the remnants of phrenology and the implications of AI in this field. With a nod to modern studies showing AI's surprising accuracy in criminality predictions, ethical concerns are woven throughout the conversation. They tackle the intersection of technology and identity, discussing potential insights into sexuality and aggression. Balancing serious topics with humor, they also touch on societal perceptions and the influence of wealth on tech development.
Aug 8, 2025 • 59min
My Little Pony's Argument for a Racist Colonialist Monarchy
Dive into the surprising critiques of 'My Little Pony,' which unveils unsettling connections to right-wing ideologies like racism and colonialism. Explore how the show's narratives address societal issues through humor while questioning its portrayal of privilege and power dynamics. Delve into themes of identity and conformity, as well as the implications of enforced equality. The podcast also critiques cultural representation, prompting fans to rethink their childhood favorites and the deeper messages they convey.
