Very Bad Wizards

A lively debate unfolds around the value of intellectual humility and its nuanced role in knowledge acquisition. The hosts challenge conventional wisdom, pondering whether arrogance can sometimes serve as an epistemic virtue. Highlights include a humorous awards ceremony celebrating the iconic series 'Deadwood,' featuring fun categories like Best Quote and Best Character. Deep reflections on the power of language and memorable quotes from the show add warmth to the conversation, blending humor with heartfelt appreciation for storytelling.

The discussion kicks off with an exploration of why we punish and how those practices have evolved. Insightful comparisons of punishment in small-scale societies reveal a shift from norm enforcement to reconciliation. Expect tales of runaway pigs, peace pipes, and an exploration of the Kiowa's conflict resolution practices. The speakers dive into the impact of societal expectations on academic success and the allure of cryptocurrency schemes. Alongside these, they share enthusiasm for upcoming topics from their audience, blending humor and introspection throughout.

Dive into the darkly comedic world of Flannery O'Connor's short story where morality and nihilism collide. Explore the whimsical reasoning behind motorists' dehumanization of cyclists and the bizarre influence of safety attire on perceptions. Delve into the complexities of family dynamics and clichés as they unravel during a tragic road trip. The discussion culminates in an exploration of guilt, grace, and the struggle for humanity amid chaos, enriched with biblical allusions and existential questions.

The hosts kick off with amusing takes on the recent election and the curious case of Tucker Carlson's nocturnal demon encounter. They dive deep into the Cognitive Reflection Test, discussing its impact on decision-making and belief systems. Through witty exchanges, they question the test's validity and what it actually measures in terms of human cognition. The conversation challenges traditional dual process theories, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of intuition and analysis in decision-making. A blend of philosophy, psychology, and humor makes for an engaging listen!

The hosts embark on a wild ride discussing the terrifying legacy of 'The Texas Chain Saw Massacre,' exploring how its sensory overload still grips audiences today. They humorously analyze the Sawyers as potential victims and dive into the absurdities of political identity through a playful test on party statements. With Halloween in mind, they reflect on horror's psychological depths, intertwining dark humor with unsettling family dynamics. Expect discussions about grotesque imagery and the emotional turmoil in both horror films and real-life situations.

Dive into the fascinating debate on Hume's Problem of Induction, where confidence in the predictability of the universe meets philosophical skepticism. Discover the intriguing claims of children remembering past lives, shedding light on memory and identity. The discussion tackles the tension between induction and deductive reasoning, uncovering their implications in science. With playful banter and existential pondering, the hosts navigate the blurred lines between belief, memory, and the rationality of our convictions.

Dive into an intricate exploration of Borges' 'The Circular Ruins,' where the line between creator and creation blurs. The discussion travels through themes like identity, solipsism, and the philosophical nature of dreams. In a fascinating twist, they tackle political endorsements and how trust in science varies among differing beliefs. With humor and depth, the hosts reflect on existential questions, the creative process, and the cyclical nature of reality. Expect both laughter and introspection as they unravel these complex ideas.

A quirky discussion kicks off with an AI necklace that promises companionship during hikes and first kisses. The hosts delve into the flaws of cognitive science, challenging its claims of universality and demanding more evidence. They tackle the cultural bias in psychological research, emphasizing the need for diverse samples. With a nod to neurodiversity, they explore how societal changes may impact perceptions of intelligence and autism. The conversation is a mix of humor and insightful critiques, making for a thought-provoking listen.

Philosopher David Shoemaker from Cornell joins the conversation, bringing his expertise in exploring profound themes. They dive into Stanley Kubrick's 'The Shining,' debating the hotel’s haunting symbolism and dissecting the duality of characters like the Gradys. The impact of the Steadicam on our perception of dread is questioned, as well as Shelly Duvall's performance. They even ponder historical injustices and what a land acknowledgment at the Overlook might look like, delivering a rich tapestry of horror, psychology, and cinematic artistry.

David and Tamler explore the depths of Plato's allegory of the cave, linking it to mystical traditions like Gnosticism and Sufism. They delve into the dialectic as a method for reaching the Form of the Good and challenge the perception of philosophers as irrelevant. The discussion also covers terror management theory, examining how awareness of mortality shapes human behavior and societal dynamics. Additionally, they critique research methodologies in social psychology and highlight the complex relationship between philosophy and modern spiritual thought.