Shows
Mentally UnscriptedEp57 – The Fog of War or the Fog of Propaganda?This week, Stefan and Scott wade back into current events to talk about the war between Russia and Ukraine. But, unlike seemingly everyone on social media, we aren't here to tell you what to think. Instead, we give you some tools to analyze the deluge of information and reach your own, honest conclusion.Is Putin a madman hellbent on nuking the world, or is Ukraine's friendliness towards the west threatened Russia's security? After listening to this episode, you won't need Twidiots to tell you what to think. You'll learn to use models such as probabilistic thinking, circle of...2022-03-031h 00
Mentally UnscriptedEp56 – First Forays into Crypto and Did We Just Discover Who Is Satoshi Nakamoto? with Mental SupermodelsNote: We discuss investing, finance, and money in this episode. It’s simply four guys talking and no one should construe anything in this episode as investment, financial, money, legal, or any other kind of advice. By the way, Myron is not Satoshi . . . or is he?This week, Stefan and Scott welcome back Myron and Jeremy of Mental Supermodels. This time we hash out our beginner experiences with cryptocurrencies. We cover how our thinking has evolved from our first forays into the world of digital currencies to where we stand today. This episode touches on investment philosophies, hits an...2022-02-191h 06
Kinsella On LibertyKOL375 | Mentally Unscripted Ep55 – Why IP Laws Destroy Innovation and How Creatives Can Profit Without ThemKinsella on Liberty Podcast, Episode 375.
This is my appearance on Ep.55 of Mentally Unscripted. Recorded Feb. 8, 2022; released Feb. 10, 2022.
Transcript below.
https://youtu.be/8SrUo79eiLk
Related links:
Examples of Ways Content Creators Can Profit Without Intellectual Property
The Creator-Endorsed Mark as an Alternative to Copyright
Do Business Without Intellectual Property (PDF)
KOL 037 | Locke’s Big Mistake: How the Labor Theory of Property Ruined Political Theory
Locke, Smith, Marx; the Labor Theory of Property and the Labor Theory of Value; and Rothbard, Gordon, and Intellectual Property
Legal Scholars: Thumbs Down on Patent and Copyright
The Overwhelming Empirical Case Against Patent and Copy...2022-02-111h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp55 – Why IP Laws Destroy Innovation and How Creatives Can Profit Without Them with Stephan KinsellaThis week, Stefan and Scott welcome Stephan Kinsella to Mentally Unscripted. Stephan is a brilliant, articulate libertarian legal scholar who explains why the mainstream notion that intellectual property spurs innovation is wrong. He dives in by telling us why IP laws are simply government-issued monopolies that actually impede innovation. He explains why removing IP laws would make us more prosperous. And closes by discussing other innovative ways creators can profit without protectionist laws.As always, we're building a community around Mentally Unscripted. So, share this episode with your friends and interact with us at MentallyUnscripted.com. 2022-02-101h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp54 – Mental Supermodels on Bitcoin Maximalism, Neil Young v. Joe Rogan, and Is That a New Mental Model?Stefan is back this week, so you’re spared another week of Scott’s implacable droning. In Episode 47, Stefan and Scott recorded a short segment on Bitcoin Maximalism. Their friends Myron and Jeremy of Mental Supermodels recently released an episode that built on those initial insights. Today, Stefan and Scott returned the favor by adding their thoughts to Myron and Jeremy's. They define Bitcoin Maximalism then discuss its advantages and disadvantages and whether it's the best philosophy for realizing Bitcoin's promise of self-sovereignty.As always, we're building a community around Mentally Unscripted. So, share this...2022-02-031h 03
Mentally UnscriptedEp53 – Garbage Truth, Stare Decisis, and Constitutional Interpretation! Supreme Court Confirmation Hearings are Coming!Stefan is still sidelined, so I’m again going solo to talk about judicial review. Justice Stephen Breyer announced his retirement, and we’re already starting to hear about possible replacements. So, get ready to listen to pundits talking about stare decisis and judicial activism.In this episode, I will explain some of the significant theories of judicial review and explain why it doesn’t matter.As always, we're building a community around Mentally Unscripted. So, share this episode with your friends and interact with us at MentallyUnscripted.com. And remember, the conclusion you reach i...2022-01-2843 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp52 – Vaccine Mandates and Hiding Elephants in Mouseholes at the Supreme CourtStefan found himself on the DL for this episode, so I went solo and tackled the U.S. Supreme Court's recent ruling in the OSHA vaccine mandate case and why it's not necessarily the primary victory, some claim.I start the podcast by explaining administrative law and why an executive agency like OSHA can make laws despite the Constitution not granting law-making authority to the executive branch. I also briefly recap on how we got to this point in the vaccine mandate case and what's to come.With the background material out the way, I give...2022-01-241h 00
Mentally UnscriptedEp51 – The Power of Stories with Eric ChowIn this episode, Stefan and I welcome Eric Chow to Mentally Unscripted. Eric is the host of The Eric Chow Empowers Podcast where he interviews people who have powerful stories of overcoming adversity.Eric is an intelligent, caring person. He shares with us his strategies for gaining the trust of people who are often uncomfortable sharing their stories. We discuss the importance of rapport and preparation. We also talk about how Eric knows when to push harder during an interview and when to let up. It’s an excellent conversation for anyone wanting to know more about drawing di...2022-01-1457 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp50 – Top 5 Insights of 2021Listen now (87 min) | and does it matter who’s spying on us? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2022-01-081h 27
Mentally UnscriptedEp49 – Insights on the 3 Rocks: Sleep, Nutrition, and Exercise, with Ben MooreDisclaimer: None of the people featured on this episode of Mentally Unscripted are doctors. The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice. In today's episode, fitness coach Ben Moore joins Stefan and me. We had a fantastic conversation about sleep, nutrition, and exercise. These "3 Rocks," as Ben calls them, form the foundation of an optimal life. Ben is articulate and possesses knowledge well beyond his age. You'll enjoy this conversation as much as Stefan and I. As always, we want to build a community around Me...2021-12-221h 17
Mentally UnscriptedEp48 – Is Democracy the Opiate of the Masses? with Myron WeberIn today's episode, Myron Weber from Mental Supermodels joins us a fascinating discussion on whether democracy is, to borrow a phrase from Marx, "the opiate of the masses," that's dulling our awareness that the United States is becoming less constitutional, less federal, and less republican. And by republican, we mean the form of government, not the political party. We had a great discussion that will give you a lot to think about regarding democracy and the direction in which the U.S. is heading. As always, we want to build a community around Mentally Unscripted. So, shar...2021-12-161h 03
Mentally UnscriptedEp47 – What Do Silicone Arms, the Lying Media, and Bitcoin Maximalism Have in Common? (and Paul's Stunning Announcement)In today's episode, we explore more exciting topics. From a story about a man with a fake arm trying to get a vaccine in Italy, we discuss what the end game for COVID-19 looks like and whether the people and organizations at the top of the world's hierarchies have a clear picture of the public health, economic, and financial landscape.We also explore our shifting paradigms. It's no longer left vs. right or communist vs. capitalist. Instead, the events surrounding COVID-19 are waking people up to a new way of looking at the world, and those entrenched in...2021-12-101h 09
Mentally UnscriptedEp46 – Seeking Signal in the Mud Space of Privilege, Credibility, and NFTsIn today’s episode, we explore some exciting topics. We start off by talking about the muddied world of tribal thinking and then discuss how tribal thought often overrides the concepts of authority and credibility.That line of thought then carries us into the concept of financialization. Here we ask how a focus on stock price maximization has turned many American companies from global innovators into financial zombies. Then we revisit the idea of meritocracy and explore a new way of thinking about the concept of privilege. We close the episode with more talk about value and the NF...2021-12-031h 21
Mentally UnscriptedEp45 – Sisyphus and How COVID Changed the Nature of Work with Sara CauseyToday’s guest is Sara Causey, the owner of Causey Consulting LLC and host of the Causey Consulting podcast. Sara’s experience consulting with firms of all sizes on their recruiting and staffing needs puts her in the unique position to see how COVID and our response to it are changing the nature of how we work. Sara has excellent insights into our changing attitude towards work, from our desire to escape cubicle zombie nation to organizational insecurities that lead to micromanaging employees. Her advice will help you shape a career that will take you to the upper levels...2021-11-2433 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp44 – Just Get the Shot Already: The Supreme Court and Vaccine Mandates with Patrick MacFarlaneListen now | There’s a lot of talk about President Joe Biden’s announced COVID-19 vaccination requirements for employees of private businesses but there’s been little talk of whether he has the authority to do so. In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott welcome Patrick MacFarlane of Liberty Weekly and the Libertarian Institute to discuss the legal issues of Biden's COVID-19 vaccine mandate. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2021-11-161h 09
Mentally UnscriptedEp43 – How to Never Argue Again (Unless You Want To) and a Free Gift AnnouncementOur intention at Mentally Unscripted is to bring you better tools to improve your engagement with others. It’s not an easy task in 2021, where Tribalism and media-driven polarization make having productive conversations even harder. That’s why we’ve put together How to Never Argue Again (Unless You Want To), a free guide to help you have better conversations that don’t end with hurt feelings and lost relationships. To get it, go to Mentally Unscripted and sign up for our email list. Resources How to Stop Fearing the Decentralized Tomorrow (crossover with Mental Supermodels...2021-11-1149 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp42 – How to Stop Fearing the Decentralized Tomorrow (crossover with Mental Supermodels)Myron and Jeremy from Mental Supermodels join Scott and Paul to discuss decentralization and the big questions facing us in the future. What is decentralization? Will we continue moving toward a decentralized world and what will that world look like? What are the factors holding back our move to decentralization and how we can drive mass adoption of the decentralized tomorrow?ResourcesMental SupermodelsMyron Weber LinkedInJeremy ThomasNorthwood AdvisorsMental ModelsEconomies of ScaleSafety vs. Ease of UseRegulatory...2021-11-051h 18
Mentally UnscriptedEp41 – So What? The Tyranny of Merit and Everyone Gets a Participation TrophyIs a system based on individual ability or achievement ruining society by creating a feeling of hubris in society's winners and resentment in its losers? In Mentally Unscripted episode 41, Paul and Scott review The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good? by Michael J. Sandel. In that book, the author claims that a merit-based system is destroying the common good. Resources The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good? Meritocracy: A system in which advancement is based on individual ability or achievement. Does America Hate the "Poorly Educated"? by M...2021-10-271h 07
Mentally UnscriptedEp40 – Anarchy, Chaos, and Emergent Order with Jamie CainPaul and Scott welcome Jamie Cain to Mentally Unscripted episode 40. Not only does this episode feature three incredibly manly beards, but it also includes an excellent conversation about anarchism and voluntaryism. And Paul tries to get in touch with his emotions . . . but they were screening their calls.Resources Liberty Uninterrupted (podcast) Liberty Uninterrupted (Instagram) Liberty Uninterrupted (Odysee) Liberty Uninterrupted (Youtube) No Kings Coalition Murray Rothbard Lysander Spooner Matt Kibbe Don’t Hurt People and Don’t Take Their Stuff: A Libertarian Manifesto The n...2021-10-261h 08
Mentally UnscriptedEp39 – Mortal Kombat Mental Models and Taco Flavored Protein Bars with Jeremy ThomasHow do you increase your effectiveness as a manager and a leader not only to benefit your organization but to improve your career? Jeremy Thomas, the cohost of Mental Supermodels, joins Paul and Scott to discuss the mental models that will improve your career and personal interactions.And, yes, there really is a Mortal Kombat mental model.ResourcesMental SupermodelsEmail Jeremy at jthomas@northwoodadvisors.com Ep32 – More About Mental Models With Myron Weber of the Mental Supermodels PodcastEp24 - A Conversation with George Silverman (MindSkills Creator)2021-10-261h 01
The Causey Consulting PodcastEpisode 100! Special returning guest: Scott GraysonThe most downloaded guest episode to date featured Scott Grayson talking about cubicle zombie life. This topic is now even more germane than when we discussed it in June of 2020. 🤔 Key topics:✔️ Updates on what Scott's up to these days. Spoiler alert: a lot. ✔️ If you weren't ready last year but you are ready now to escape the cubicle zombie life... how do you do it?✔️ If you are Mike the Micromanager and you feel that you need a digital panopticon of surveillance to suss out who is working hard versus who is goofing off all...2021-10-2128 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp40 – Anarchy, Chaos, and Emergent Order with Jamie CainPaul and Scott welcome Jamie Cain to Mentally Unscripted episode 40. Not only does this episode feature three incredibly manly beards, but it also includes an excellent conversation about anarchism and voluntaryism. And Paul tries to get in touch with his emotions . . . but they were screening their calls. Resources Liberty Uninterrupted (podcast) Liberty Uninterrupted (Instagram) Liberty Uninterrupted (Odysee) Liberty Uninterrupted (Youtube) No Kings Coalition Murray Rothbard Lysander Spooner Matt Kibbe Don’t Hurt People and Don’t Take Their Stuff: A Libertarian Manifesto The non-aggression principle Don’t Go Down the Rabbit Hole Mentally Unscripted Episode 15 - The N...2021-10-201h 08Mentally UnscriptedEp39 – Mortal Kombat Mental Models and Taco Flavored Protein Bars with Jeremy Thomas How do you increase your effectiveness as a manager and a leader not only to benefit your organization but to improve your career? Jeremy Thomas, the cohost of Mental Supermodels, joins Paul and Scott to discuss the mental models that will improve your career and personal interactions.And, yes, there really is a Mortal Kombat mental model.ResourcesMental SupermodelsEmail Jeremy at jthomas@northwoodadvisors.com Ep32 – More About Mental Models With Myron Weber of the Mental Supermodels PodcastEp24 - A Conversation with George Silverman (MindSkills Creator)Ep35 – Will Bill Gates’ Prescription for Avoiding a Climate...2021-10-141h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp38 – Opportunity Cost is Screwing Up Your LifeWhat you don’t see is as important as what you do see. Opportunity costs, costs that you don’t see, lurk in every decision. In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott explain why missing those costs screws up your decision-making.ResourcesTK News by Matt TaibiAaron MateHow 'do your own research' hurts America's Covid responseThese four words are helping spread vaccine misinformationLex Fridman Podcast #221 – Douglas LenatYou’ll Make Better Decisions When You Understand Opportunity CostsConfirmation Bias: Why your decisions suck and you fight with your friendsTradeoffs: The Currency of Decision...2021-10-0555 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp37 - Unshackled Liberty Podcast: Communicate! with Scott GraysonScott was a guest on a recent episode of Unshackled Liberty where he talked to Q the Abolitionist and Crypto Gumbo about the increasing lack of communication in the world and the divisiveness it's causing.Unshackled Liberty "is a libertarian variety show where we discuss the value of reducing the role of government in our daily lives. We have interviews and news from various sources and evaluate everything from the perspective of Christian Voluntaryism. We hope you stick around for a few episodes and enjoy the content." Find Unshackled Liberty here and your favorite podcast...2021-09-291h 03
Mentally UnscriptedEp36 – Our Leaders Don’t Know How to Lead and Why That MattersIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott welcome Robert and Wiz back to the show. This time, they take on the growing problem of poor leadership.Guest LinksRobert on Twitter Wiz on Twitter Wiz’s websiteResourcesTranscript of Pelosi Interview on CNN’s The Situation Room with Wolf BlitzerNancy Pelosi Blows Up at Wolf Blitzer Over Stimulus: You’re a Republican ‘Apologist’ Comparing SARS-CoV-2 natural immunity to vaccine-induced immunity: reinfections versus breakthrough infectionsComparing Natural and Vaccine ImmunityThe Freedom Cell NetworkRNC says it plans to sue Biden administratio...2021-09-211h 00
Unshackled Liberty PodcastCommunicate! with Scott GraysonScott is a blogger at Strength and Reason, a blog devoted to helping you learn to think for yourself. He’s also a co-host of Mentally Unscripted, a podcast dedicated to helping people view the world with a critical eye and improve their communication.
Scott is a contributor at Liberty Weekly and Torch News where he writes about the law and libertarian and anarchist philosophy.
Scott started his career in information technology. He then attended law school before spending 10 years investigating civil rights and health information privacy complaints for the U.S. Government.
He left the government in June 2019 to st...2021-09-191h 03
Mentally UnscriptedEp35 – Does Bill Gates’ Prescription for Avoiding a Climate Disaster Give Too Much Power to the Government?In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott review How to Avoid a Climate Disaster: The Solutions We Have and the Breakthroughs We Need, by Bill Gates. ResourcesThe Politically Incorrect Guide to Climate ChangeBiden administration considers withholding funds and other measures to spur vaccinationsPfizer hikes 2021 outlook after vaccine boosts sales, profitPfizer’s full FDA approval could lead to even greater profitsWe Are Living in a Climate Emergency, and We’re Going to Say So, Scientific American Colludes with Other Major Media to Normalize ‘Climate Emergency’ TerminologyUS military is a bigger polluter than as many...2021-09-161h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp34 – Fake Gurus, Bruce Lee Quotes, and the End of Society as We Know ItIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott welcome Robert and Wiz back to the show. This time they cast their critical, and sometimes cynical, eye on the shady world of social media gurus. And of course, they have a little fun doing it.Guest LinksRobert on Twitter Wiz on Twitter Wiz’s websiteResourcesMentally Unscripted Ep25 - A Conversation with Wisdom and StrategyMentally Unscripted Ep28 - Killing Procrastination with RobertFalse Pattern RecognitionSiddha PerformanceTop TakeawaysThere is no shortage of people on so...2021-09-0755 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp33 – Hubris and Misaligned Incentives: Mental Models in a Time of WarIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott talk about the mental models that we can use to make better decisions in our foreign policy with a focus on military conflict.ResourcesFool's Errand: Time to End the War in Afghanistan, by Scott HortonTK News, by Matt TaibbiThe Afghanistan PapersU.S. Military Pollution, US military is a bigger polluter than as many as 140 countriesIncentives matterBegin with the end in mindBaselinesOccam’s RazorFramingMoral Foundations TheoryRisk assessment & cost/benefit analysisOpportunity costsInertiaReversibilityDisconfirming EvidenceBayesian CasinoOptimism BiasSunk Cost FallacyShifting GoalpostsPrimingSeeing the Front / The Map is Not the TerritoryBase Ra...2021-09-0255 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp32 – More About Mental Models With Myron Weber of the Mental Supermodels PodcastIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott welcome Myron Weber of the Mental Supermodels podcast. In his day job, Myron Weber is the founder of Northwood Advisors, helping clients solve interesting data problems at the core of their business. He is also the cohost of Mental Supermodels, a podcast exploring the theory and practice, the art and science of mental modeling for problem-solving and decision making.Note: The first episode of Mental Supermodels season 2 is now available. You can find it at Mental Supermodels and on your favorite podcast player.M...2021-08-2547 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp31 - Disconfirming Evidence and Falsifiability: The Two Most Powerful Mental Tools You’re Not UsingIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott talk about using disconfirming evidence and falsifiability to overcome confirmation bias.ResourcesConfirmation Bias: Why Your Decisions Suck and You Fight With Your FriendsUse Disconfirming Evidence to Make Your Decisions Suck LessJudgment in Managerial Decision MakingProbabilistic ThinkingTop Takeaways1. Humans tend to look only for confirming evidence. But often we need disconfirming evidence to find the correct solution to a question.2. Disconfirming evidence is better to use when...2021-08-1841 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp30 - Brandon Wark of Free State Colorado - Why the Future Belongs to Those Who ParticipatePaul and Scott welcome Brandon Wark of Free State Colorado. Brandon talks about Free State Colorado and gives the inside scoop on some local politics. And Paul makes up a new word.ResourcesThe Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New YorkFree State ColoradoLewRockwell.comLudwig von MisesFredrik HayakHenry HazlittMurray RothbardConfirmation BiasIncentives MatterTop Takeaways1. Free State Colorado’s goal is to promote a cu...2021-08-1045 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp29 - How Confirmation Bias and COVID Divided the WorldHow Confirmation Bias and COVID Divided the WorldPaul and Scott explain how confirmation bias and our need to be correct have divided the world over COVID.ResourcesThe Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New YorkDarkHorse Podcast (Brett Weinstein & Heather Heying has done many COVID related podcasts)Tom Woods COVID Charts QuizExcess Deaths (from CDC)Ivermectin & Aducanumab: Do They Work?Interview with George SilvermanConfirmation BiasInertia (note: the equal and opposite...2021-07-301h 10
Mentally UnscriptedEp28 - Killing Procrastination with RobertWe’ve all battled procrastination at some point. Hell, you may be procrastinating by reading this right now (Don’t blame us. We didn’t force you to read this.) Indeed, for some of us, procrastination keeps us from achieving our goals.The good news is that you can overcome it.You can look procrastination in the eye and say, “No thanks, old friend. I’m done with you.” And Robert, aka Words & Minds, is the person to help you.Paul and Scott welcome Robert to Mentally Unscripted in episode 28. They spend an hour...2021-07-211h 00
Mentally UnscriptedEp27 - Joey Psypreneur InterviewJoey, the Prypreneur, is a former web developer who now teaches people how to develop better habits and improve their performance.Paul and Scott welcome Joey to Mentally Unscripted in this episode. They have a great conversation covering a range of topics including the following:Scientific self-improvement,Imposter syndrome,Marketing,Authority and credibility,Core fundamentals,Improving performance,Flow states, andHow to Win Friends and Influence People.Paul and Scott have known...2021-07-131h 04
Mentally UnscriptedEp26 - Fluffy Sky Bunnies And The Great ResetThe Great Reset is still here. There’s more evidence that political, business, and religious leaders are moving forward with their plan to bring about a global utopia. But does that evidence prove what you think it proves? Or is your brain tricking you into believing a conspiracy theory?In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott revisit the Great Reset.They start off by talking about apophenia, or false pattern recognition. Apophenia is our tendency to see patterns in random data that don’t exist. And it’s one re...2021-07-071h 06
Mentally UnscriptedEp25 - A Conversation with Wisdom and StrategyWisdom and Strategy tweets about purpose and achieving your goals. He's also an author working on his first book.Paul and Scott welcome Wisdom and Strategy in this episode of Mentally Unscripted. They have a great conversation about Twitter and imposter syndrome. The three also compare their strategies for content creation.Tune in for a great conversation. Don't forget to check out Wisdom and Strategy on Twitter and Linktree. And be on the lookout for his first book about conquering your career...2021-06-291h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp24 - A Conversation with George Silverman (MindSkills Creator).George Silverman is a psychologist, marketer, author, and entrepreneur. He's busy working on his newest innovation: MindSkills."We have repealed geography . . . Now you can be stupid in two places instead of one."- George SilvermanGeorge joins Paul and Scott on episode 24 of Mentally Unscripted. In this episode, our co-hosts sit speechless as George talks about his history - from inventing the telephone focus group to developing MindSkills. George explains what it is to "go meta" and how MindSkills improves upon the idea of mental models.George brings the house in...2021-06-221h 11
Mentally UnscriptedEp23 - Common Sense Lab Leak and the Bitcoin Badger Visits El SalvadorBitcoin is legal tender in El Salvador. And it's ok to talk about COVID's possible lab-based origin.The world is changing. And Paul and Scott are helping you navigate the absurdity.In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott talk about the COVID Wuhan lab theory.That's right. Saying COVID came from a lab in Wuhan won't get you labeled a conspiracy theorist anymore. And, even better, it won't get you kicked off social media. It's mainstream now. And our hosts have some fun with...2021-06-181h 25
Mentally UnscriptedEp22 - The Truth About Migration, Voting, and Inflation NewsPaul and Scott are back with more headlines. It's a fun and informative look at a few of the big topics in the news. This time they tackle migration, the federal voting law, and take a quick whack at inflation.In these headline episodes of Mentally Unscripted, you'll learn how to read mainstream news stories with a critical eye. You'll see how Paul and Scott identify biases and fallacies in the articles. You'll also learn to identify missing information. And you'll see how they apply mental models in evaluating the articles.2021-06-101h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp21- The Truth about Vaccines, Bitcoin Volatility and The Wuhan Lab Leak HypothesisJoin Paul and Scott as they explore current headlines. In this episode, they pick some interesting headlines and discuss the selected articles. In the process, they shine the all-seeing eye of critical thinking on the content.In these headline episodes of Mentally Unscripted, you'll learn how to read mainstream news stories with a critical eye. You'll see how Paul and Scott identify biases and fallacies in the articles. You'll also learn to identify missing information. And you'll see how they apply mental models in evaluating the articles.So strap in and enjoy. It's a fun...2021-05-2752 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp20 - Do We Need Police?Policing has been a hot topic since the summer of 2020. As one would expect, the enforcement arm of the state has the potential to overstep its bounds. Any organization with a monopoly on the legal use of force can inflict an incredible amount of misery on society. From stealing private property to the use of lethal force, often without accountability or consequence. So, the critical question is: how do we protect the people from the police? Do we reform the police when it goes astray, or do we take more drastic measures?In this episode of Mentally...2021-05-251h 17
Mentally UnscriptedEp19 - Does Bitcoin Have Value?You've seen the headlines. Bitcoin is gaining in value, and the sky's the limit. Of course, you're wondering if you need to jump onto the gravy train before it's too late. But you're a logical, thinking person. You've wondered why anyone would pay money for something that doesn't exist? Not in a physical sense, anyway. And what's the likely future for bitcoin? Will it keep its value? What are the risks facing bitcoin and the crypto market?Those are all excellent questions. And they're questions a rational person should ask in our new financial landscape....2021-05-201h 22
Mentally UnscriptedEp18 - Is the Fed Lying About Inflation?The Fed says there's low inflation. The data seems to support that point. But try telling that to anyone who's been to the grocery store in the past week. So, what gives? Is the Fed lying about inflation?In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott discuss the basics of inflation. And they assure you that you're not crazy. There's a reason why the government is telling you there's no inflation. But your grocery store bill says there is.They begin by discussing the definition of inflation and the various forms inflation can take...2021-05-181h 22
Mentally UnscriptedEp17 - Can Bitcoin Free Us From Government Tyranny?Can bitcoin free us from government overreach? Can it restore the financial stability we've been losing since the creation of the [[https://www.federalreserve.gov/][Fed]], on December 23, 1913?Even if you've been living in a cave for the last five years, you've heard of bitcoin. But most of us only know about it from the hype surrounding this new "digital currency." It's true that bitcoin offers an exciting and risky investment opportunity. But, there's another side to it.In 2008, during the worldwide financial crisis, [[https://nakamoto.com/satoshi-nakamoto/][Satoshi Nakamoto]] published a famous w...2021-05-041h 26
Mentally UnscriptedEp16 - MMT #2 - Has MMT Won the Fiscal Policy Debate?Modern monetary theory may not have won the fiscal policy debate. But its promise of free money has more politicians listening.Stephanie Kelton, the author of The Deficit Myth, appeared on Bloomberg's Odd Lots podcast. Paul and Scott were hopeful that Ms. Kelton would answer some of the questions they had about MMT coming out of their review of The Deficit Myth.Guess what? Ms. Kelton left them disappointed.Paul and Scott continue their discussion of MMT in this episode of Mentally Unscripted. They cover a range of topics, including:Whether MMT...2021-04-271h 07
Mentally UnscriptedEp15 - The NYT Approach to Fighting Inaccurate Information is ProblematicAttention is the new currency. And news outlets will do anything to get it. That includes doling out biased information lacking context or straight-up deception. Critical thinking is your weapon to cut through the noise. But how? The New York Times presents a method, called SIFT, in the article, Don't Go Down the Rabbit Hole.In this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott dissect SIFT. In doing so, they render their judgment on this model.To borrow a phrase from data processing, garbage in garbage out. That means the output of any model is...2021-04-071h 18
Mentally UnscriptedEp14 - Why the Smartest People Use Mental ModelsFocus on building your health, wealth, and relationships to improve your life. It's often a gap in knowledge or an inability to communicate that causes problems in these areas. Mental models are a way to improve both.Imagine being able to have a productive, enlightening discussion with friends and family. A debate where everyone understands and accepts that differences of opinion exist. And those differences are a feature, not a bug, of a vibrant, rational world.Or, imagine looking at yourself in the mirror. And in your reflection, you see a confident person—someone who kn...2021-03-191h 23
Mentally UnscriptedEp13 - Here’s What You Need to Know About The Deficit MythIn this episode of Mentally Unscripted, Paul and Scott critique Stephanie Kelton's The Deficit Myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the Birth of the People's Economy.When it's over, you'll understand better MMT's basic concepts. And you'll hear arguments about why it's not the cure-all its proponents claim.Does it seem that the last several elections were a contest to see which candidate can promise more free stuff? If so, you're not alone.Free healthcare, education, and money dominated recent elections.In the past, one central question concerned us when it came...2021-03-091h 24
Mentally UnscriptedEp12 - Here's What You Need To Know About Our Higher PurposeWhat exactly are these two idiots trying to do here? In this episode, Paul and Scott discuss their higher purpose. In other words, why they're doing this podcast.Paul and Scott explain their approach to critical thinking using the accusations that Tom Brady is racist for winning the Super Bowl as an example.Resources mentioned in this episode:Idiocracy: People Now Calling Tom Brady “Racist” For Winning Super Bowl During Black History MonthTom Brady Called ‘Racist’ on Social Media for Winning Super Bowl During Black History MonthMental models...2021-02-2326 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp11 - The Great Reset – Grand Conspiracy or Half-Baked Idea?Paul and Scott dive into the World Economic Forum’s “Great Reset.” We discover what they want to achieve, the cost of change, and possible risks of adopting these policies. Resources mentioned in this episode:Davos 2021World Economic ForumThe Great ResetThe Tom Woods Show ep. 1814What Is the Great Reset? Part I: Reduced Expectations and Bio-techno-feudalismThe Great Reset, Part II: Corporate SocialismThe Great Reset, Part III: Capitalism with Chinese CharacteristicsThe Great Reset, Part IV: “Stakeholder Capitalism” vs. “Neolib...2021-02-151h 10
Mentally UnscriptedEp10 - Big Tech Censorship – Speak Your Mind (But don’t Piss Us Off)Paul and Scott attempt to make sense of the “Big Tech Censorship” debate. In this episode, they discuss the nature of censorship, why it’s difficult to moderate speech in the digital age, and ways of making it better.Resources mentioned in this episode:Manhattan Community Access Corp. v. HalleckKnight First Amendment Institute v. TrumpTrump v. Knight First Amendment Institute – SCOTUS BlogRegulate Tech Like a UtilityStratechery Article on ModerationDavid Sacks Digital Bill of RightsCharles Hoskinson Discussion on Big Tech...2021-02-021h 20
Mentally UnscriptedEp09 - Voting Technology – Worse than ChadsIn the second part of Mentally Unscripted’s “Should I vote?” series, Paul and Scott explore alternatives to physical voting and discover the technology – from online to blockchain – just isn’t ready for prime time.Resources mentioned in this episode:Voting in TaiwanGoing from Bad to Worse: From Internet Voting to Blockchain VotingMicrosoft Open Source VotingCharles Hoskinson review of MIT whitepaperImage by mohamed Hassan from Pixabay This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this...2021-01-261h 06
Mentally UnscriptedEp08 - Vote or Don’t Vote – It’s Up to YouShould I vote? That’s a question more people are asking themselves in the United States. Paul and Scott discuss the utility of voting and how the U.S. can improve its current election model.Resources mentioned in this episode:Economics in One Lesson, by Henry HazlittDemocracy: the God that Failed, by Hans Herman HoppeThe Bob Murphy Show, Ep 142 Explaining John Nash’s Dissertation and Why Russell Crowe Got It Backwards Media censors Ron Paul Iowa Caucus resultsHistory of US VotingManufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media...2021-01-191h 06
Mentally UnscriptedEp07 - “Trust Science” – How To Avoid Bad SciencePaul and Scott discuss their love of the scientific process, different ways of identifying the good kind of science (TY Farnam Street!), the seductive allure of bad science, and why we hate yard signs that read “I believe in science.” Resources mentioned in this episode:How To Spot Bad ScienceThe Distrust of Intellectual AuthorityImage by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.menta...2021-01-121h 10
Mentally UnscriptedEp06 - Conspiracy Theories – How to Determine the Value of a Tinfoil HatPaul and Scott explore conspiracy theories, why they are so prevalent in modern society, and how to prevent your mind from accepting the most ridiculous stories ever imagined.Resources mentioned in this episode:The Illusory Truth Effect at Farnam Street This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2021-01-051h 14
Mentally UnscriptedEp05 - Political Hypocrisy – Do as I Say, Not as I Do.Political hypocrisy is rampant. Paul and Scott discuss the hypocrisy of elected officials during the COVID pandemic and attempt to understand why it happens, why we are so angry, and what, if anything, can make it better.Resources mentioned in this episode:After warnings to avoid travel, Denver Mayor Hancock flies to visit family for ThanksgivingAfter voting for dining ban, LA County supervisor dines out at local restaurantNancy Pelosi gets hair done at SF salon in spite of COVID-19 rules This is a...2020-12-291h 05
Mentally UnscriptedEp04 - Political Narratives – What to Ask Before You AgreePaul and Scott discuss the power of grand narrative, the desire for political figures to attach our fates to their success, and what we must ask before agreeing to them (hint – there are many hidden costs). This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2020-12-221h 01
Mentally UnscriptedEp03 - Political Discourse – “I Want you Out of My Tribe”Paul and Scott discuss Sam Harris’ message to the Intellectual Dark Web, the downfall of political discourse, and how to think about improving communication as we head toward 2021.ReferencesSam Harris discussion (https://youtu.be/lmcdu6B_YUU) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2020-12-151h 21
Mentally UnscriptedEp02 - COVID Vaccine – What to Ask Before You Get the ShotCOVID vaccine considerations. Paul and Scott discuss the excitement about the upcoming vaccine and some critical considerations everyone must ask before getting pricked. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2020-12-0842 min
Mentally UnscriptedEp01 - The Mentally Unscripted Origin Story: Why Paul lacks a soul and Scott hates the manIn the Mentally Unscripted Origin Story, Paul and Scott discuss the origins of their moral philosophy by reviewing their scores on the moral foundations study (moralfoundations.org). This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mentallyunscripted.com2020-12-041h 12