Factually! with Adam Conover

Dr. Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, dives into the current state of healthcare and longevity research. He discusses the paradox of significant medical advancements contrasted with political threats to research funding. The conversation covers the dangers of health misinformation, the intricacies of aging and immunity, and the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines. Topol also critiques the U.S. healthcare system while advocating for personalized medicine as a means to improve health outcomes.

David Roth, a journalist at Defector and a longtime NYC resident, joins the conversation to dissect the political upheaval in New York City, spurred by the candidacy of Zohran Mamdani. They highlight Mamdani's fresh approach towards making the city more livable, discussing why the Democratic establishment seems threatened by him. The talk dives into the peculiar tactics of local politicians, the disconnect between elites and everyday New Yorkers, and emphasizes the power of authenticity in political communication. Roth also sheds light on how media narratives shape public perception.

The discussion opens with alarming statistics showing how technology is diminishing our cognitive skills. It highlights a shift from engaging with content to passive consumption, warning that this approach stifles growth. The podcast delves into the crisis in critical thinking among students due to AI tools, emphasizing the danger of choosing convenience over understanding. Lastly, it advocates for active mental engagement and creative thinking, likening it to physical exercise crucial for intellectual health.

Greg Grandin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian from Yale and author of 'America, America: A New History of the New World', dives deep into the controversial dynamics between the U.S. and Latin America. He dissects the historical roots of anti-Latin American sentiments, especially during the Trump era, and connects past imperialist attitudes to today’s political landscape. Grandin also contrasts race and citizenship approaches in both regions and reflects on the lasting effects of U.S. interventions, revealing a complex narrative of connection and conflict.

Vivek Chibber, an NYU professor and a key voice in leftist discourse, dives deep into America's political landscape, revealing how it essentially operates with two right-wing parties. He discusses the challenges facing the left, including fleeting protests and the historical absence of a robust left-wing organization. Chibber emphasizes the need for grassroots movements to build authentic relationships with the working class and revitalize labor activism. He also critiques contemporary identity politics, advocating for a renewed focus on class solidarity in social justice efforts.

Brennan Lee Mulligan, game master of Dimension 20, brings a unique flair to this conversation. He discusses the meteoric rise of Dungeons & Dragons from niche hobby to stadium phenomenon, illustrating the profound impact of community and storytelling. Mulligan highlights the delicate balance between artistic authenticity and audience engagement and shares the emotional labor involved in creative pursuits. He also touches on the parallels between tabletop gaming, sports, and the importance of participation, urging listeners to embrace meaningful experiences.

Mary Ziegler, a law professor and scholar specializing in American reproductive rights, shares her insights on the alarming implications of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision. She discusses how this ruling could signal a broader war on bodily autonomy beyond abortion access. Ziegler explores the concept of fetal personhood and its potential legal and ethical ramifications, highlighting the uneasy intersection with racial dynamics. She emphasizes the need for a more dynamic pro-choice movement to counteract the anti-abortion strategies and advocates for grassroots initiatives to champion women's rights.

The discussion dives into the bizarre rants of AI chatbot Grok, linking them to real-world political narratives and conspiracy theories. It examines the painful history of apartheid in South Africa and critiques Elon Musk's controversial views on 'white genocide.' The podcast further explores the impact of social media on political rhetoric and analyzes refugee policies that reflect racial biases, revealing the darker motivations behind these decisions. Insights into economic inequalities and historical oppression make for a thought-provoking listen.

Karen Hao, author of EMPIRE OF AI and a reporter covering the AI industry, joins to explore the god-like aspirations of tech leaders like Sam Altman at OpenAI. The discussion highlights how narratives shape perceptions of AI, revealing the stark contrasts between utopian dreams and harsh realities. Hao discusses the ethical implications of AI's evolution, drawing parallels with historical empires and addressing the powerful alliance between tech companies and government. She raises critical questions about resource exploitation and the need for responsible tech leadership.

The discussion highlights the rise of pronatalism in right-wing circles, particularly with Elon Musk's alarming views on declining birth rates. It critiques various impractical policies to boost birth rates while suggesting immigration as a more effective solution. The podcast also tackles the vital role of immigration in economic growth and challenges media bias surrounding this topic. Finally, it envisions a shift in economic strategies to adapt to population stagnation, advocating for resource reallocation from militarization to social welfare.