In this engaging conversation, Rachel Zimmerman, an author and journalist, shares her profound journey following the suicide of her husband, an MIT professor. She navigates the challenges of single parenthood while illuminating the complexities of grief and resilience. Rachel discusses her obsessive quest for understanding, interviewing experts to address the stigma surrounding mental health. The memoir, 'Us, After,' touches on love, loss, and the healing power of community support, revealing how even in the darkest moments, hope and meaning can emerge.

Douglas J. Engelman, a sociology lecturer at UNC Wilmington and author of "A Boy Broken," shares a poignant journey through his son's mental illness. He discusses the painful moment of his son's psychotic break and the emotional turmoil of advocating for mental health awareness. Engelman emphasizes the societal stigma surrounding mental illness and the importance of open conversations. He also reflects on grief, recovery, and the vital role of family support in navigating these challenges, ultimately aiming to inspire others facing similar struggles.

Anneli Jefferson, a philosopher and author of "Are Mental Disorders Brain Disorders?", dives into the controversy surrounding the classification of mental disorders. She argues that defining dysfunction at the brain level often hinges on understanding it psychologically. The discussion critiques reductionist views in psychiatry and explores the impact of labeling mental conditions as brain disorders. Jefferson emphasizes the significance of considering environmental factors and challenges traditional definitions, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of mental health.

Stijn Vanheule, a clinical psychologist and professor at Ghent University, discusses his groundbreaking work on psychosis. He explores the complex relationship between creativity and psychotic experiences, highlighting that many individuals channel their unique thought processes into artistic expression. By critiquing traditional views, he emphasizes the social factors influencing psychosis and the importance of understanding its narrative. Vanheule weaves in enlightening examples from well-known figures and uses engaging metaphors to make the topic accessible to all.

Nathan J. Murphy is a political theory researcher, author, and entrepreneur at PrePolitica, committed to improving political stability. He explores how external ideologies shape our thoughts, decisions, and spending patterns. Murphy advocates for 'contributionism' to enhance community ties in contrast to consumerism. He delves into the necessity of adaptability in the face of technological changes and examines how cultural contexts influence morality in today's digital age, emphasizing the intersection of neuroscience and societal structures.

Derek Hook, an associate professor at Duquesne University and a Lacanian scholar, delves into the intersection of language and the unconscious. He creatively uses Bill Clinton's infamous denial to illustrate Lacan's theories. The conversation spans Nixon’s apology post-Watergate, exploring themes of responsibility and identity within political contexts. Hook emphasizes the significance of the 'big other' in shaping communication and the challenges in bridging academic and clinical worlds, offering insights into psychoanalysis and individual repression.

Conspiracy theories spread more widely and faster than ever before. Fear and uncertainty prompt people to believe false narratives of danger and hidden plots, but are not sufficient without considering the role and ideological bias of the media. Creating Conspiracy Beliefs: How Our Thoughts Are Shaped (Cambridge UP, 2021) focuses on making sense of how and why some people respond to their fear of a threat by creating or believing conspiracy stories. It integrates insights from psychology, political science, communication, and information sciences to provide a complete overview and theory of how conspiracy beliefs manifest. Through this multi-disciplinary perspective, rigorous research develops and tests a practical, simple way to frame and understand conspiracy theories. The book supplies unprecedented amounts of new data from six empirical studies and unpicks the complexity of the process that leads to the empowerment of conspiracy beliefs.Roberto Mazza is currently a visiting scholar at the Buffett Institute for Global Affairs at Northwestern University. He is the host of the Jerusalem Unplugged Podcast and to discuss and propose a book for interview can be reached at robbymazza@gmail.com. Twitter and IG: @robbyref Website: www.robertomazza.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

In this conversation, Meryl Alper, an expert in communication studies and educational research, shares insights from her new book on the experiences of autistic youth in the digital era. They discuss the impact of technology on social interactions, emphasizing both challenges and opportunities. Alper highlights the importance of inclusive media representation and listening to the voices from disability studies. She also offers empirical insights on communication preferences among autistic children and advocates for a deeper understanding of their emotional expressions.

Dr. Lauren Tober, a clinical psychologist and veteran yoga teacher, discusses her new book on integrating mental health into yoga practice. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere for students experiencing mental health challenges. The conversation explores the therapeutic benefits of yoga and the urgent need for mental health training among teachers. Ethical considerations around touch in therapeutic yoga are also covered, alongside the profound connection between calming the mind and accessing inner wisdom.

Francisco Aboitiz, a prominent professor and director at the Interdisciplinary Center for Neuroscience, delves into the intricate history of life and consciousness. He discusses how the first cells emerged and traces the evolution of complex organisms. Fascinating insights on the hippocampus highlight its role in memory, while the evolution of hearing and language reveals how communication adapted over time. Aboitiz also uncovers the link between cognitive abilities and environmental changes, and examines the implications of technology on our communication and societal structures.