Jonas Kaplan

In this enlightening discussion, neuroscientist Jonas Kaplan, known for his work on belief and identity, dives into the brain's fascinating ability to create its version of reality. He explores the phenomenon of hallucinations and how our brains fill in knowledge gaps when faced with uncertainty. Jonas discusses the challenges of changing deep-rooted beliefs and introduces mindfulness as a means for personal growth. He also sheds light on the interplay between memory, identity, and the narratives we construct about ourselves.

Sam Harris welcomes Jonas Kaplan, a cognitive neuroscientist at USC, who specializes in consciousness and identity. They dive into the neuroscience behind belief change, discussing phenomena like the illusory truth effect and the backfire effect. Kaplan explains how emotional motivations can entrench false beliefs, particularly in a polarized environment. The conversation also touches on the significance of cognitive flexibility, the interplay of beliefs and identity, and the enduring impact of storytelling in human culture.

In this insightful discussion, cognitive neuroscientists Jonas Kaplan and Sarah Gimbel from USC's Brain and Creativity Institute dive into the backfire effect, a phenomenon where challenging strong beliefs often reinforces them instead. They explore how cherished beliefs shape our identity, particularly in political contexts, and discuss their latest brain imaging research revealing why our brains resist changing these beliefs. By examining emotional responses and cognitive flexibility, they shed light on the psychological dynamics at play when confronting deeply held convictions.