Rationality — Why Smart People Believe False Things | Crisis in Perception episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 19, 2025 · 36 MIN

Rationality — Why Smart People Believe False Things | Crisis in Perception

from Crisis in Perception · host Crisis in Perception

In this episode of Crisis in Perception, we examine Rationality by Steven Pinker.This book explores what rational thinking actually is, why it often fails even among intelligent people, and why clear reasoning seems so scarce in modern society. Pinker argues that rationality is not a personality trait, but a learned set of skills grounded in logic, probability, statistics, and decision theory.Key themes include:Why intelligence does not protect against false beliefsCommon reasoning errors in probability, risk, and uncertaintyHow logical fallacies distort everyday decision-makingWhy humans misjudge evidence in medicine, politics, and conflictHow better reasoning can be learned rather than assumedRather than celebrating human rationality, this Deep Dive focuses on why it breaks down — and what that reveals about perception, belief, and judgment.▶ MINI EXPLAINER VERSION👉 https://youtu.be/AHoToBYhX64

In this episode of Crisis in Perception, we examine Rationality by Steven Pinker.This book explores what rational thinking actually is, why it often fails even among intelligent people, and why clear reasoning seems so scarce in modern society. Pinker argues that rationality is not a personality trait, but a learned set of skills grounded in logic, probability, statistics, and decision theory.Key themes include:Why intelligence does not protect against false beliefsCommon reasoning errors in probability, risk, and uncertaintyHow logical fallacies distort everyday decision-makingWhy humans misjudge evidence in medicine, politics, and conflictHow better reasoning can be learned rather than assumedRather than celebrating human rationality, this Deep Dive focuses on why it breaks down — and what that reveals about perception, belief, and judgment.▶ MINI EXPLAINER VERSION👉 https://youtu.be/AHoToBYhX64

NOW PLAYING

Rationality — Why Smart People Believe False Things | Crisis in Perception

0:00 36:39

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

MG Show MG Show The MG Show, hosted by Jeffrey Pedersen and Shannon Townsend, is a leading alternative media platform dedicated to uncovering the truth behind today’s most pressing political issues. Launched in 2019, the show has grown exponentially, offering unfiltered insights, comprehensive research, and real-time analysis. With a commitment to independent journalism and factual integrity, the MG Show empowers its audience with knowledge and encourages active participation in the political discourse. Eat to Live Jenna Fuhrman, Dr. Fuhrman Our health is our most precious gift and smart nutrition can change your life. Each month, join Dr. Fuhrman and his daughter, Jenna Fuhrman as they discuss important topics in the world of nutrition. Eat to Live will change the way you eat and think about food. French Your Way Jessica: Native French teacher founder of French Your Way Boost your French listening skills and test your comprehension with this one of a kind series of podcasts. Get the chance to listen to a real conversation between native speakers talking at normal speed AND customise your learning experience through carefully designed sets of questions (2 levels of difficulty) available for download at www.frenchvoicespodcast.com. All interviews also come with the transcript. French teacher Jessica interviews native speakers of French from around the world who share a bit of their life and passion. Where else would you meet in one same place a French yoga teacher based in Melbourne, a soap manufacturer from Provence, or a couple cycling around the world? XXX Tech by SOVRYN Dr. Brian Sovryn The crossroads between technology, sensuality, and metaphysics - and the longest running anarchist podcast in the world! Brought to you by Dr. Brian Sovryn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Crisis in Perception?

This episode is 36 minutes long.

When was this Crisis in Perception episode published?

This episode was published on December 19, 2025.

What is this episode about?

In this episode of Crisis in Perception, we examine Rationality by Steven Pinker.This book explores what rational thinking actually is, why it often fails even among intelligent people, and why clear reasoning seems so scarce in modern society....

Can I download this Crisis in Perception episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!