Share this episode: https://www.samharris.org/podcasts/making-sense-episodes/395-intellectual-authority-and-its-discontents Sam Harris discusses the breakdown of trust in institutions, the nature of intellectual authority, the danger of bad incentives, the epidemic of conspiracy thinking and misinformation, Trump and Elon, and other topics.   Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.

Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal Biosciences and a technology entrepreneur, passionately discusses his groundbreaking work in de-extinction. He shares insights on reviving the woolly mammoth and other species, fleshing out the challenges and scientific innovations involved. The conversation dives into the role of AI in genetic engineering, the significance of artificial womb technology, and the potential environmental and economic benefits of reintroducing extinct species into their habitats. Lamm also addresses misconceptions related to these ambitious efforts.

Join bestselling author and historian Simon Sebag Montefiore as he delves into the messy intersections of history and contemporary politics. The discussion highlights the impact of the Crusades on modern anti-Semitism and examines the role of Jerusalem as a religious epicenter amid ongoing conflicts. Montefiore also critiques U.S. foreign policy failures in Iran and unpacks the surge of anti-Semitism post-October 7. His insights into Israel's geopolitical struggles reveal the complexities of moral dilemmas facing liberal democracies today.

Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of 'The Extinction of Experience,' joins the conversation to examine how technology reshapes culture and communication. They discuss the declining practice of handwriting and its cognitive impacts, delve into the influence of social media on political polarization, and the rise of conspiracy theories. Rosen reflects on the importance of local journalism in a fragmented media environment and the urgent need to foster genuine community understanding in an increasingly digital world.

A deep dive into the aftermath of the 2024 presidential election reveals the Democratic Party's failures in handling identity politics and candidate weaknesses. The discussion on trans rights uncovers how cultural issues influence voter perceptions and election results. The podcast also critiques modern journalism's struggles with bias and misinformation, emphasizing the urgent need for credible institutions. Finally, it examines the erosion of democratic values amid populism and the responsibility of media figures in shaping political narratives.

Mark Cuban, an entrepreneur and investor famous for Shark Tank and owning the Dallas Mavericks, joins the discussion on the 2024 presidential election. They dive into Trump’s political resilience and ethics, the influence of Elon Musk, and the nuanced landscape of immigration policy. Cuban and Sam explore the complexities of economic policy, including wealth inequality and the unrealized capital gains tax proposal. They also contrast Kamala Harris's approach to international relations against Trump's, advocating for a return to normalcy in political discourse.

Nate Silver, statistician and founder of FiveThirtyEight, discusses the evolving cultural attitudes toward risk in American politics. He highlights the erosion of trust in democratic institutions and how digital echo chambers shape public perception. The conversation touches on the complexities of polling, the impact of key tech figures like Musk and Bankman-Fried, and the rising Gen Z voting trends. Silver also explores the likelihood of electoral unrest and the intricate relationship between wealth concentration, media trust, and political dynamics.

Sara Imari Walker, an astrobiologist and theoretical physicist from Arizona State University, delves into the scientific understanding of life. They discuss how traditional definitions fall short and the intriguing role of physics in the topic. Concepts like assembly theory and the Fermi paradox come to life as they explore the potential for extraterrestrial existence. Walker also challenges us to rethink the intersection of life and technology, raising questions about whether machines could be considered alive. It's a captivating journey through the cosmos!

In a riveting discussion, Rahm Emanuel, former chief of staff to President Obama and current U.S. ambassador to Japan, delves into the complex state of global politics. He explores Japan's unique economic paradox and its cultural influences, alongside the rising tensions between the U.S. and China. Emanuel also candidly addresses the Democratic Party's identity crisis and its disconnect with immigrant communities. The conversation then shifts to Israel, discussing its diplomatic challenges and the prospects for peace in the region, highlighting the intricate balance of security and political dynamics.

Sam Harris chats with Yuval Noah Harari, a renowned historian and bestselling author known for his works on humanity's past and future. They explore the dangers of information overload and how it shapes societal order, discussing the balance between truth and fiction. Harari critiques social media's role in democracy, urging for accountability and transparency. The conversation delves into authoritarianism, the vulnerabilities of global democracy, and the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, ultimately emphasizing the need for ethical discourse in a turbulent world.