Exploring Ernest Becker's thesis on human behavior driven by fear of death. Delving into a documentary about Becker's ideas and technology's impact on society. Discussing acceptance, existential dread, and pursuit of immortality through cultural contributions. Navigating individuality in consumer culture and reflections on personal growth.

Explore the AI frenzy in Silicon Valley, with predictions of human extinction. Discusses outlandish vs. plausible AI problems and historical extinction panics. Emphasizes the impact of technology and geopolitics on collective anxiety, skepticism about super-intelligent AI, and the importance of managing risks associated with advanced AI.

Author Alex Ward discusses the evolving American foreign policy post-World War II, the consequences of Trump's win, and reevaluating American foreign policy in the Biden era. They also explore differing global perspectives on chaos and nuclear threats, assess Biden's foreign policy, and discuss the future of American foreign policy under Trumpism vs. Bidenism.

Economic historian Brad DeLong discusses the transformative long 20th century, from technological growth to challenges in resource distribution. The rise and fall of social democracy, the role of the state in market regulation, missed opportunities for bold policy changes, and potential narratives for the 21st century are explored.

Musician Laraaji discusses the transformative power of music, the cosmic sound current, his spiritual name, the link between music and laughter, mindfulness, and the integration of spirituality and music in a professional career.

Political philosopher Ingrid Robeyns argues for a maximum limit on personal wealth. She discusses wealth inequality, its threat to democratic societies, and the historical perspective. The link between wealth inequality and political stability is explored, along with the challenges of political change. The hosts discuss selling the concept of limitarianism in America and reconceiving the market and private property for a more equitable system.

Maggie Jackson, an author who explores the effects of feeling uncertain on the brain and our personalities, joins Sean Illing to talk about how being unsure can lead to a better, more hopeful life. They discuss the benefits of embracing uncertainty, the impact of fear on decision-making, and strategies to overcome fear and anxiety in uncertain situations. They also explore the relationship between uncertainty and adaptability, and the importance of embracing ambiguity in a changing world.

Elizabeth Anderson, professor of public philosophy at the University of Michigan, challenges the traditional perspective of the work ethic and discusses its historical origins. She explores how the ruling class exploits the work ethic, the association of wealth and virtue, and the obstacles to creating a pro-worker work ethic. Strategies for advocating a progressive work ethic are also discussed.

Neuroscientist Gul Dolen discusses the potential benefits of psychedelics in improving learning abilities. The podcast explores the use of psychedelics for stroke patients, reopening critical periods in learning, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for various conditions. It also examines psychedelics' effects on social behavior in octopuses and emphasizes the importance of mentors in guiding psychedelic experiences.

Philosopher Mariana Alessandri discusses the destructive influence of the 'light metaphor', the shift from Stoicism to Aristotle's philosophy, and the importance of embracing and honoring painful emotions. The chapter also explores the debate on shaking off bad feelings and the need for open conversations about mental health.