Conversations With Coleman

Scott Adams and Noam Dworman discuss topics such as media bias, Trump's efforts to overturn the election, racism, and double standards in acceptable speech. They also analyze Trump's communication style, discuss corruption and conspiracy theories, and talk about reframing success and setting goals for success.

Christopher Rufo, a political activist and filmmaker, discusses topics such as the influence of Herbert Marcuse on critical theory, left-wing admiration for Mao and Stalin, the teaching of CRT in public schools, and the impact of the collapse of the Soviet Union on the Western left. They also explore the correlation between the rise in homicide rate and the movement against the police, the relationship between Marxism and critical race theory, and the frustrating aspects of the CRT debate.

Jens Heycke, researcher, writer, and cyclist, discusses multiculturalism and assimilation throughout history. Topics include the origin of the term 'melting pot', the approach of ancient Rome to cultural diversity, the challenges of creating a diverse society, the impact of distinguishing ethnic groups in Sri Lanka and Singapore, colorblindness in France, affirmative action in India, and lessons from Botswana and Rwanda.

Associate professor of economics, Garett Jones, discusses the benefits and drawbacks of democracy and the crisis of expertise. He explores the topic of immigration, focusing on assimilation and high trust versus low trust cultures. The conversation also covers the complexities of governance, the influence of lobbyists, and the impact of the electoral college. They delve into the building of American institutions, the paradox of ambitious entrepreneurs in high-trust systems, and the high savings rates and strong community among Mormons.

Hyram and Verlan Lewis challenge the belief that left and right politics represent distinct philosophies. They argue that people on the left and right are more like sports fans adopting their tribe's beliefs. They discuss the flaws in the left-right framework, the ever-changing meanings of left and right, the lack of natural correlation between political issues, and the importance of healthier tribes for human connection. Their book, 'The Myth of Left and Right,' offers a radical intervention in today's political conversation.

In this episode, Coleman engages in a debate with Jamelle Bouie, a columnist for the New York Times, discussing whether colorblindness perpetuates racism. They explore the importance of acknowledging racism, the debate over colorblindness, and racial and ethnic inequality in public policy.

Philip Goff, a philosopher known for his work on consciousness, defends panpsychism in this conversation. They discuss the hard problem of consciousness, materialist and dualist explanations, rival theories of consciousness, integrated information theories, global workspace theory, time and physics, artificial consciousness, and the purpose of the universe.

AI safety discussed by Eliezer Yudkowsky, Gary Marcus, and Scott Aaronson. Topics include alignment problem, human extinction due to AI, notion of singularity, and more. Conversation brings something fresh to the topic.

Investigative reporter Lee Fang discusses the influence of money in politics, security state overreach, and civil liberties. They delve into the concept of a deep state, collusion between Twitter and the US security state, partisan censorship by the Department of Homeland Security, FBI contractors and surveillance, corporate wokeness as a PR tactic, flaws of ESG investing, and the influence of artificial intelligence on journalism.

Jeannie Fontana, CEO of the TREAT California Initiative, talks about the potential of psychedelic research in treating mental illness and improving well-being. She also discusses her advocacy work for ALS patients and stem cell research funding. The podcast explores the impact of politicizing science and reflections on COVID-19, politics, and mental health. It delves into barriers and streamlining research on stem cells and perspectives on psychedelic medicine. The speaker discusses traditional societies vs. the American approach to psychedelics and the importance of integrating Western medicine and Eastern philosophies for mental health.