Why do smart people believe weird things? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Michael Shermer—founder of The Skeptics Society and author of "Why People Believe Weird Things" — to explore ideological certainty, cognitive biases, and how skepticism can lead to a more fruitful life. We discuss free speech, the dangers of dogmatism, and how to stay intellectually open while still being skeptical.
Shermer, delves into life's biggest questions through the lens of rationality and critical thinking. From his journey from evangelical Christianity to skepticism, to his thoughts on consciousness and the random nature of existence, Shermer shares profound insights on finding meaning in a universe without inherent purpose.
00:00 Intro
01:12 Michael's Last Meal
02:04 The Great American Bike Race
05:11 Journey to Skepticism
08:02 Losing Faith and Embracing Skepticism
11:38 Living a Skeptical Life
16:15 Daily Routines and Consistency
17:34 Scientific Mysteries and Consciousness
19:12 Fear of Death and Afterlife
21:11 Political Concerns and Future of Humanity
22:31 Life Lessons and Personal Beliefs
25:55 Wisdom and Personal Growth
28:11 Hypothetical Questions and Preferences
30:16 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Follow Michael:
https://x.com/michaelshermer
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
