Honestly with Bari Weiss Steven Pinker: Why Smart People Believe Stupid Things
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Jun 18, 2024 
In this engaging conversation, Steven Pinker, a prominent cognitive psychologist and author, unpacks why even intelligent people can fall for misinformation. He explores the psychology of belief systems, the evolution of human thought, and the impact of conspiracy theories. Pinker discusses the clash between Enlightenment ideals and modern authoritarianism, as well as the dual-edged nature of technology in society. He emphasizes the need for balanced media portrayals and the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook amidst contemporary challenges.
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Rationality of Conspiracy
- Conspiracy theories offer compelling narratives, but their complexity makes them less probable.
- The more detailed a conspiracy, the more likely it is to be false.
Alex Jones on JFK
- Alex Jones's claim about Jews killing JFK contradicts the fact that Jack Ruby, the only Jew involved, killed Oswald.
- This shows a thirst for narrative over truth.
Smart People and Stupid Beliefs
- Intelligent people are generally less susceptible to cognitive biases except "my-side bias."
- "My-side bias" causes people to excuse errors that support their group.
