The Hidden Cost of Your Values | Steve Sloman

Cognitive scientist Steve Sloman joins us to discuss The Cost of Conviction, exploring how sacred values shape our decisions and why they often lead to polarization. From zealotry to the social roots of belief, Steve reveals why convictions are more borrowed than built—and what this means for hot-button debates in politics, public health, and business. Most importantly, he shares how reframing conversations can reduce outrage, build humility, and open the door to better dialogue across divides.

Topics

[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Steve Sloman

[7:49] How Your Community Shapes Your Beliefs

[13:05] Sacred Values vs. Consequentialism

[19:25] The Psychology of Convictions

[24:48] Do We Only Trust In-Group Experts?

[33:59] The “Sacred Value Trap”

[40:35] How Framing Shifts Consumer Behavior

[47:45] Desert Island Music

[51:59] Grooving Session: How Can We Reframe Our Sacred Values?

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Music Links

Paul Simon - The Boxer

Neil Young - Rockin’ in the Free World

Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A-Changin’