You Are Not So Smart

Sarah Stein Lubrano, a political theory researcher with a PhD, discusses her insightful book, urging us to tackle polarization without losing hope. She highlights the failure of the 'Marketplace of Ideas' and the impact of cognitive biases on political discourse. From the nuances of motivated reasoning to the ineffectiveness of traditional debates, she emphasizes the need for data-driven conversations that foster understanding. Lubrano ultimately advocates for real-life interactions to inspire empathy and drive social change.

Mary C. Murphy, a psychology professor with ties to Indiana University and Stanford University, shares her insights on creating cultures that enhance collaboration, innovation, and performance. She discusses the importance of developing a growth mindset within organizations, contrasting it with fixed mindsets that prioritize competition. Murphy also highlights how cultural influences shape our approach to challenges and feedback, ultimately advocating for a shift towards environments that promote development and resilience over innate talent.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Edmans, a finance professor at London Business School and author of 'May Contain Lies,' uncovers how narratives and statistics can mislead us. He dives into the Ladder of Misinference and how our biases shape decision-making. Exploring confirmation bias, he illustrates how even rational thinkers can fall prey to it. Edmans emphasizes the need for critical thinking and skepticism to navigate misinformation in business and personal life, urging listeners to embrace nuance over simplistic beliefs.

In this intriguing discussion, Brian Klaas, an Associate Professor at University College London and author of Fluke, dives into the fascinating role of chance in our lives. He reveals how minor, random events can lead to major historical changes, challenging the common bias that big outcomes require grand causes. Klaas addresses the dangers of conspiratorial thinking and emphasizes the power of small actions in shaping our reality, reminding us that understanding chaos can lead to a more meaningful life.

Erica Chenoweth, a political scientist and Harvard professor, discusses her groundbreaking '3.5 Percent Rule,' which reveals that just a small fraction of the population can drive major societal changes. She highlights the power of nonviolent resistance over violence, emphasizing its greater success rates. Chenoweth reflects on her early inspirations in political science, rooted in historical conflicts. The conversation also delves into individual agency and the necessity of strategic planning for effective collective action.

Professor Neil Theise, the author of Notes on Complexity,  provides an introduction to the science of how complex systems behave – from cells to human beings, to ecosystems, the known universe, and beyond – and we explore if Ian Malcolm was right when he told us in Jurassic Park that "Life, um, finds a way."Previous EpisodesNeil Theise's WebsiteNotes on ComplexityConway's Game of LifeThe Santa Fe InstituteTechnosphereHow Minds ChangeDavid McRaney’s TwitterYANSS TwitterNewsletterPatreon

Greg Satell, a communication expert and author of 'Cascades' and 'Mapping Innovation', dives deep into the dynamics of societal change. He discusses how understanding psychology can help navigate resistance and inspire collective action. Drawing from the Orange Revolution, Satell emphasizes the power of emotional resonance in communication. He highlights how small actions can ignite significant social movements, while stressing the importance of preparation and collaboration in driving transformational change.

Britt Frank, a licensed neuropsychotherapist and trauma specialist, dives into her book, 'Align Your Mind,' exploring the complexities of our inner selves. She discusses Parts Work and Internal Family Systems therapy, highlighting how our mind is a collective of parts. Listeners learn about 'micro yeses'—small steps for change—and how to embrace their multifaceted nature. Frank redefines the inner critic as a protective ally and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in personal growth for a more authentic life.

Andy Luttrell, a social psychologist and host of the Opinion Science podcast, dives into the revolutionary work of Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky. They discuss how cognitive biases, such as the famous Linda problem, challenge conventional economic rationality. Luttrell explores the birth of behavioral economics, highlighting key concepts like bounded rationality and prospect theory. The importance of precise questioning in understanding decision-making is emphasized, revealing how our perceptions shape reality and necessitating a shift in our understanding of rationality.

Join Oxford-educated psychologist and magician Matt Tompkins, author of The Spectacle of Illusion, as he unravels the fascinating tale of Clever Hans, the horse misinterpreted as a genius. Discover how the Clever Hans Effect showcases the often unseen cues influencing our beliefs. Explore the allure of magical thinking in modern life, the intriguing overlap between magic and psychology, and how critical thinking can be enhanced through creative tools. Tompkins reveals the balance between skepticism and belief, enriching our understanding of perception and memory.