#395 — Intellectual Authority and Its Discontents
Making Sense with Sam Harris
Deep Dive
Why did Sam Harris combine his podcast and Substack newsletter?
To provide a unified platform for his content in audio, video, and print formats, making it easier for subscribers to access everything with one subscription and reducing the need to create content for separate audiences.
How does Sam Harris' subscription model differ from traditional ad-based models?
Harris avoids ads and audience metrics, allowing him to speak freely without worrying about sponsors or audience capture. This model gives him the freedom to change his mind and explore controversial topics without being constrained by brand concerns or audience biases.
What does Sam Harris say about the nature of intellectual authority?
Harris argues that while we shouldn't argue from authority, we often rely on it as a shortcut to understanding complex truths. Real experts, especially those in specialized fields, provide the best approximation of knowledge, even if their authority can sometimes be flawed or corrupted by bad incentives.
Why does Sam Harris criticize RFK Jr. and his role in health policy?
Harris describes RFK Jr. as a crackpot and conspiracy theorist with no intellectual reputation to maintain. Unlike established scientists like Fauci and Collins, RFK Jr. can spread misinformation without facing consequences, making him unfit for positions of authority in health policy.
What does Sam Harris think about Elon Musk's role in spreading misinformation?
Harris views Musk as one of the biggest arsonists in the current misinformation crisis, despite being a talented entrepreneur. Musk's promotion of conspiracy theories and lies on social media, combined with his refusal to correct or apologize for his errors, has severely damaged the integrity of public discourse.
How does Sam Harris explain the rise of conspiracy thinking on the right?
Harris attributes the rise of conspiracy thinking on the right to a breakdown in trust in institutions and a tendency to see malevolent competence rather than ignorance or incompetence. This has led to widespread contempt for institutions, fueled by a cultural death spiral and the politicization of scientific failures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What does Sam Harris say about the 'very fine people on both sides' controversy?
Harris debunks the claim that Trump praised neo-Nazis and white supremacists, arguing that the statement was taken out of context. He criticizes the left for spreading this misinformation to score political points without regard for intellectual integrity.
Why does Sam Harris believe that bad incentives are a problem in society?
Harris argues that bad incentives, such as those that reward dishonesty or bias, can corrupt individuals and institutions. He uses the example of Middle Eastern Studies departments in U.S. universities, which have been influenced by funding from countries like Qatar, leading to biased and inaccurate scholarship.
- Merger of Making Sense podcast and Substack newsletter.
- Unified subscription model for audio, video, and print content.
- Freedom from advertising and audience metrics constraints.
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