

Experimental History
Adam Mastroianni
1) Find what's true and make it useful. 2) Publish every other Tuesday. 3) Photo cred: my dad.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 7, 2024 • 23min
Startling differences between humans and jukeboxes
Exploring theories of motivation and incentives, the podcast challenges oversimplified views of human behavior. It delves into passion-driven achievements, the importance of intrinsic interests over external incentives, and the significance of leadership qualities in shaping behavior. Critiques on behaviorism and emphasis on empowerment for personal growth are also discussed.

Apr 30, 2024 • 26min
Science will only end once we've licked all the objects in the universe
Exploring the shift in scientific ideologies towards speculative propositions, critiquing misguided pursuits in scientific inquiry, reflecting on the progress in studying prejudice in psychology, discussing the unpredictable nature of scientific progress, and contemplating the fate of scientific progress with a humorous twist.

Apr 23, 2024 • 22min
You can't be too happy, literally
Exploring the consistent levels of reported happiness among Americans over 70 years despite significant historical events and societal progress. Delving into the idea of psychological immune system and homeostatic mood to explain emotional balance. Comparing mind control systems to thermostats for regulating emotions. Discussing the delicate balance of emotions to prevent extreme states like mania and depression. Exploring how neurotics and depressives handle sadness and success differently. Delving into the relationship between sugar consumption and emotional experiences.

Apr 17, 2024 • 14min
Declining trust in Zeus is a technology
Exploring the transition from ancient beliefs to scientific methodologies in medicine, addressing the decline in trust towards institutions. Emphasizing the importance of mental technologies and inspiring change by breaking patterns. Delving into flaws in professional environments and advocating for trust based on expertise and evidence.

Apr 2, 2024 • 25min
How to drive a stake through your own good heart
Exploring the controversy of data manipulation at a prestigious university, the illusion of productivity, uncovering unethical strategies for university ranking manipulation, and the impact of Goodheart's Law on systemic manipulation for personal gain.

Mar 27, 2024 • 23min
Let's build a fleet and change the world
Exploring the importance of individuality in scientific exploration, the podcast delves into the concept of Science Houses as collaborative research environments. It discusses the challenges of traditional academia, bureaucratic hurdles in securing research funding, and the conflict researchers face between stability and pursuing independent interests.

Mar 19, 2024 • 25min
I'm so sorry for psychology's loss, whatever it is
Exploring allegations of fraud in academic papers, consequences for researchers' careers, dishonest behavior in a study, replicability challenges in psychology, and the immortality of psychological paradigms.

Mar 12, 2024 • 16min
Sorry pal, this woo is irreducible
Delving into the complexities of a mismatched wedding and challenges of expressing emotions. Emphasizing the essence of narratives by avoiding superficial details. Exploring the ineffable nature of love and its limitations in language. Reflecting on the boundaries of rationality and subjective emotions like love. Exploring the mysteries of love and commitment in marriage.

Mar 5, 2024 • 20min
An invitation to a secret society
The podcast explores the importance of diversity in science, the historical role of wealth in scientific pursuits, and the value of embracing unconventional scientific methods. It encourages collaboration, curiosity, and self-learning in order to address global challenges with innovative approaches.

Feb 27, 2024 • 32min
The illusion of moral decline
Challenging the notion of moral decline, the podcast dives into perceptions vs reality, biased exposure, and memory distortions. It explores how personal relationships shape beliefs, the tactics of aspiring despots, and gratitude to subscribers.