David McRaney: Exploring the Influence of Identity, Instincts, & Group Dynamics in Decision Making

In this conversation with David McRaney, we delve into the psychological underpinnings that shape our decision-making processes, both as solitary individuals and as members of larger social groups. Gain a nuanced understanding of how our social environment subconsciously steers our beliefs and actions, often overshadowing logical reasoning. By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper insight into the psychological forces that drive the allegiance to community leaders, the steadfast defence of personal ideologies, and the profound influence of status within our social hierarchies. Tune in to unravel the complexities of human psychology and discover strategies for more mindful decision-making.

David McRaney is a journalist and lecturer fascinated with brains, minds, and culture. He created the blog, book, and ongoing podcast You Are Not So Smart, which he calls a "celebration of self delusion." His most recent book is How Minds Change, all about the science behind how and why people do and do not change their minds and the intricacies and nuances of persuasion. After finishing How Minds Change, he wrote, produced, and recorded a six-hour audio documentary exploring the history of the idea and the word – genius – which is the subject of his next book.

 

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Coming Up...

00:01:23 - Introducing David McRaney

00:03:30 - What attracted David to this area of expertise

00:08:45 - The reason the world is so divided

00:12:05 - How group dynamics influence our choices & opinions

00:15:50 - Illuminati, possibly real or not?

00:19:00 - Questioning your convictions & forming opinions, the right way

00:22:20 - Focus on learning & manage emotions in heated debates

00:31:30 - Moral Dumbfounding, intellectual humility, and empathy

00:37:50 - Confirmation bias, emotional motivations, & internet's influence

00:50:10 - Knowing when to trust your gut

00:54:00 - How social instincts can override logic

01:00:10 - Raising kids to think better

 

RESOURCES SHARED -

The Conspiracy Test -https://theconspiracytest.org/

David McRaney's Books - https://www.davidmcraney.com/new-page-1

 

CONNECT WITH DAVID MCRANEY - 

David McRaney's Website - https://www.davidmcraney.com/

You Are Not So Smart Podcast - www.youarenotsosmart.com

David's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/davidmcraney

 

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