Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content
Sam Harris
Join neuroscientist, philosopher, and best-selling author Sam Harris as he explores important and controversial questions about the human mind, society, and current events. Sam Harris is the author of five New York Times bestsellers. His books include The End of Faith, Letter to a Christian Nation, The Moral Landscape, Free Will, Lying, Waking Up, and Islam and the Future of Tolerance (with Maajid Nawaz). The End of Faith won the 2005 PEN Award for Nonfiction. His writing and public lectures cover a wide range of topics—neuroscience, moral philosophy, religion, meditation practice, human violence, rationality—but generally focus on how a growing understanding of ourselves and the world is changing our sense of how we should live. Harris's work has been published in more than 20 languages and has been discussed in The New York Times, Time, Scientific American, Nature, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, and many other journals. He has written for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Economist, The Times (London), The Boston Globe, The Atlantic, The Annals of Neurology, and elsewhere. Sam Harris received a degree in philosophy from Stanford University and a Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA.
Episodes
Mentioned books
75 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 56min
#447 - The Unraveling of American Power
In this engaging conversation, geopolitical strategist Peter Zeihan discusses America's waning power under Trump, reflecting on his unexpected prediction for the 2024 election. He critiques Trump’s tariffs and their impact on deindustrialization while forecasting inflation and supply chain risks. Exploring topics like China's demographic decline and military readiness, Zeihan warns of eroding U.S. advantages and envisions a chaotic political future. He intriguingly notes Melania Trump's role as Ukraine’s ambassador, adding unexpected depth to his analysis.
14 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 52min
#446 - How to Do the Most Good
Michael Plant, a philosopher and director of the Happier Lives Institute, discusses the science of well-being and effective altruism. He explores how self-reported happiness can vary and questions the utility of Nozick's 'Experience Machine.' The conversation covers the implications of AI on human flourishing, the importance of treating depression over cash transfers for improving lives, and the stark disparities in charitable impacts. Plant also emphasizes the role of genuine experiences versus memories in shaping happiness.
99 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 58min
#445 - More From Sam: Marjorie Taylor Greene, Billionaires, Thanksgiving Political Debates, & Rapid Fire Questions
In this engaging discussion, the hosts tackle Marjorie Taylor Greene's controversial apology and the complexities of performative politics. They delve into the idea of wealth inequality and the self-made myth, emphasizing the role of luck in success. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating political discussions during Thanksgiving gatherings, offering practical advice. They also touch on belief change, skepticism of grand conspiracies, and the importance of compassionate approaches to medical aid in dying.
79 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h
#444 - America’s Zombie Democracy
George Packer, an award-winning journalist and author at The Atlantic, joins the discussion on the decline of American democracy. They delve into the symptoms of authoritarianism, including the erosion of institutions like Congress and the Justice Department. Packer critiques the public’s apathy towards democratic collapse and highlights the dangers of hyper-partisanship and white nationalism. They also address the impact of economic inequality and identity politics, as well as potential threats to the upcoming elections. Packer's insights paint a vivid picture of America’s precarious political landscape.
80 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 60min
#443 - What Is Christian Nationalism?
Douglas Wilson, senior minister of Christ Church in Moscow and author, dives into the intricate world of Christian nationalism. He debates secularism's failures and argues for a biblical foundation of morality in public life. Wilson contrasts post- and premillennialism, discusses the role of dominionism, and contemplates traditional views on LGBTQ rights and capital punishment. The conversation also touches on the historical context of religious tests and the need for charity towards Jews, making for a stimulating exploration of faith's impact on society.
97 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 43min
#442 - More From Sam: Public Speaking, Nuclear War, & Christian Nationalism
This conversation dives into overcoming public speaking fears, showcasing personal strategies and techniques. The hosts tackle the alarming prospects of nuclear war, critiquing its moral implications. They also discuss the rise of Christian nationalism, with a focus on notable converts and the influence of faith. Additionally, Sam emphasizes the importance of addressing anti-Semitism in democratic societies. Alongside book recommendations and advice on discussing life's difficult topics with children, this dialogue promises both introspection and urgent cultural commentary.
102 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 7min
#441 - The Threat of Civil War
Stephen Marche, a novelist and essayist known for his works in The New Yorker and The Atlantic, joins to discuss his book, The Next Civil War. He explores the potential risks of a modern civil war in America, highlighting issues like extreme polarization, trust in institutions, and the impact of diversity. Marche examines Canadian perspectives on U.S. instability, the role of social media in radicalization, and the historical context of political violence. He questions the feasibility of secession and presents various scenarios for what a civil conflict might entail.
109 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
#440 - A World in Crisis
In this captivating discussion, bestselling author Robert D. Kaplan shares insights from his latest book, exploring the nature of a world in crisis. He delves into the profound implications of climate change, migration, and political extremism. Kaplan argues that order must precede freedom and analyzes the potential fallout from conflicts with Russia and China. He highlights the rise of right-wing populism in Europe and assesses the shifting geopolitical landscape, offering a sobering look at our future amidst growing global tensions.
37 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 24min
#439 - How to Lose a Democracy
Damon Linker, a political science lecturer and author, delves into the troubling state of American democracy. He discusses the rise of right-wing populism and its potential to distort democracy. The conversation highlights how Trump could exploit unrest via the Insurrection Act and the risks of authoritarianism. Linker critiques the rhetoric of power and fear that fuels division, while examining the intertwining of Christianity and politics in modern America. Together, they explore the dangers posed to democratic norms and the emerging threats from centralized state power.
68 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 1h 3min
#438 - “More From Sam”: Israel-Hamas Deal, Qatari Air Force Base, Trump, Charlie Kirk, Ezra Klein, & Rapid Fire Questions
Current events take center stage as the hosts delve into the Israel-Hamas peace deal and why the reaction to it is mixed, even among activists. They discuss the implications of a Qatari air base in Idaho and Trump's questionable character traits revealed through a golfing lens. Political violence is examined through the lens of Charlie Kirk's assassination, igniting debates on media responsibility and societal tensions. Plus, reflections on Christopher Hitchens and the challenges of navigating modern journalism without social media.
