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MICHAEL SHERMER

Founding publisher of Skeptic magazine and author focused on science, skepticism, and the nature of truth; discusses conspiracy theories and his book Truth: What it is, How to Find it, Why it Still Matters.

Top 10 podcasts with MICHAEL SHERMER

Ranked by the Snipd community
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129 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 20min

Debate: Do We Need a Religious Revival?

Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author on religion, shares insights alongside Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a prominent activist focused on women's rights and immigration. Michael Shermer, founder of Skeptic magazine, argues the case for secularism while comedian Adam Carolla brings humor to a serious debate. They discuss the recent rise in Christian affiliation, the effects of declining religious beliefs on societal cohesion, and whether a religious revival can address contemporary moral crises.
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37 snips
Apr 18, 2026 • 57min

Michael Shermer on Truth and Conspiracy

Michael Shermer, founding publisher of Skeptic magazine and author on science and truth, joins to tackle conspiracy theories and how to tell plausible claims from wild ones. He outlines practical criteria for spotting real conspiracies. They also debate what truth means and how fallible science and evidence help us find it.
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28 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 37min

Michael Shermer: Want to know the truth?

Michael Shermer, science writer and founder of Skeptic Magazine, explores truth, reasoning, and misinformation. He discusses why truth feels under attack and defines truth as provisional, evidence-based assent. He shares tools like Bayesian thinking, steelmanning, and respectful conversation to navigate consensus, conspiracy spread, and changing minds.
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9 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 53min

Michael Shermer: Conspiracy Thinking, Wokeness, and the Future of Free Thought

Michael Shermer, founder of Skeptic magazine and author on rationalism, discusses the rising tide of conspiracy thinking and its political roots. He argues against the narratives of well-known conspiracies and critiques how wokeness impacts science, compromising research integrity. Shermer emphasizes the need for open discourse in academia and reflects on the evolution of individual rights, particularly in contentious areas like sports and morality. He also sheds light on the phenomenon of UFO sightings, likening it to social contagion and misinterpretation.
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Mar 1, 2026 • 1h 9min

Michael Shermer: Truth! What Is It? And How To Find It!

Michael Shermer, founding publisher of Skeptic magazine and author with a PhD in history of science, explores what we mean by truth and how to find it. He walks through scientific fallibility, Bayesian reasoning, consensus formation, replication problems, pattern-seeking and coincidences, and how myths and religion differ from empirical claims. Practical tips on spotting misinformation and verifying digital claims round out the conversation.
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Aug 19, 2023 • 1h 4min

Dr. Michael Shermer on science and skepticism

Dr. Michael Shermer, a college professor and definitive skeptic, discusses scientific experiments influenced by social factors, the challenges of defining intelligence and success, replication crisis in social sciences, belief in paranormal phenomena, competition and cooperation in science and society, and a casual conversation about Scooby-Doo and Neil deGrasse Tyson
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May 31, 2023 • 1h 6min

Conspiracy Expert: How to Spot a True Conspiracy Theory - Michael Shermer

Michael Shermer, a noted science writer and executive director of The Skeptics Society, delves into the intricate world of conspiracy theories. He discusses the thin line between truth and paranoia, particularly how social media has amplified misinformation. Shermer also examines the psychology behind belief in conspiracies, especially in today's climate post-pandemic. Additionally, he addresses the evolving power dynamics and the responsibility of media platforms in combating harmful narratives, all while promoting critical thinking and skepticism.
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Oct 24, 2022 • 1h 36min

Biden's Mental Fitness, Targeting Political Enemies, and "Trans Dopers," with Ted Cruz and Michael Shermer | Ep. 418

Michael Shermer, author and skeptic, dives into the psychology behind conspiracy theories and the growing phenomenon of 'trans dopers' in women's sports. He discusses how rational paranoia can sometimes lead to truth. Senator Ted Cruz shares his views on Critical Race Theory, Biden's mental fitness, and the ethical concerns surrounding student loan forgiveness. The conversation touches on the complexity of balancing rights and fairness in sports while exploring broader implications for political strategies ahead of the midterms.
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Apr 9, 2020 • 1h 57min

#1456 - Michael Shermer

Michael Shermer, science writer and founder of The Skeptics Society, dives into a riveting discussion about navigating truth and misinformation in today's media landscape. He scrutinizes the misconceptions around 5G and COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking. Shermer also explores the complexities of ideological loyalty and the polarized political climate, advocating for nuanced discourse. Additionally, he shares inspiring stories of transformation sparked by empathy, showcasing the power of connection in overcoming deep-seated biases.
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Oct 18, 2019 • 1h 10min

DR. MICHAEL SHERMER x Michael Decon - JORDAN PETERSON AND BEN SHAPIRO

Dr. Michael Shermer discusses a range of interesting topics including the 'Woke' culture, Jordan Peterson, Ben Shapiro, Tom Delonge, skepticism, science, religion, the problem of evil, flat earth phenomenon, public vs private schools, media's power, UFOs, and the controversy surrounding the NBA's relationship with China.

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