unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

Catherine Wilson, an emerita professor of philosophy at the University of York, discusses the resurgence of Epicureanism in modern life. She contrasts it with Stoicism, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and intrinsic motivations over societal validation. The podcast explores how Epicurean principles can guide personal joy and ethical behavior amidst today's consumer culture. Wilson also critiques the historical and contemporary societal values, advocating for peace and genuine happiness as essential aspects of human ethics.

Cathy O'Neil, the founder of Orca and a research fellow at Harvard, dives into how algorithms can exacerbate societal shaming, particularly via social media. She discusses the consequences of algorithmic decision-making on marginalized groups and the need for accountability in tech development. O'Neil highlights how digital platforms profit from shameful outrage while manipulating young users' behaviors. The conversation sheds light on how to navigate the complex relationship between technology, identity, and societal norms.

Albert-László Barabási, a network science professor at Northeastern University, dives into the intricate relationship between success and performance. He reveals how communal validation shapes our achievements and discusses the evolution of network science. Barabási challenges stereotypes regarding age and creativity, illustrating that older individuals often make significant contributions. He also highlights the importance of recognizing the 'silent helpers' in academia, emphasizing their unseen yet vital roles in fostering success.

In this enlightening discussion, astrophysicist Saul Perlmutter, philosopher John Campbell, and psychologist Robert MacCoun delve into their book, exploring how to apply scientific thinking to societal issues. They emphasize the importance of separating facts from values, advocate for probabilistic thinking, and discuss the emotional toll on scientists facing challenges to their work. The conversation also touches on the dangers of prioritizing individual genius in tech innovation and highlights the need for collaboration and critical dialogue in community decision-making.

David Bradford, Senior Lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, discusses building relationships in professional settings. They explore effective communication, conflict resolution, feedback, curiosity in bridging communication gaps, and the importance of vulnerability in leadership.

Scientific advisor Alina Chan discusses COVID-19's origin, highlighting natural zoonotic transmission and lab leak hypotheses. She explores challenges in identifying virus origins and debates on studying high-risk pathogens. The podcast delves into prior bias in investigations, the role of bats in virus transmission, biosafety level protocols, and the need for transparency in virus research.

Michael Norton, a Harvard Business School professor, discusses the power of rituals in managing stress and fostering community. He explores the distinctions between rituals, habits, and compulsions, and how companies can use rituals to strengthen unity and core values. Norton also highlights the correlation between shared rituals and relationship success, emphasizing mutual participation.

Neuroscience professor Tali Sharot and host Greg LaBlanc discuss habituation, optimism bias, and the impact of bad news. They explore breaking free from emotional habits, the human desire for control, escalating dishonesty, and emotional habituation in social change and harmful actions.

Carl Elliott, a philosophy professor, discusses unethical medical experiments and whistleblowers. Topics include protecting vulnerable populations, challenges faced by whistleblowers, the evolution of healthcare perception, and the implications of seeking authenticity through interventions.

Dan Ariely, a Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics, delves into the psychology behind misbelief and conspiracy theories. He discusses his experience with conspiracy theories during the pandemic, the significance of language as a social marker, and the role of transparency in scientific communication. They explore the impact of misinformation on society and the challenge of discerning facts in a polarized world.