9 chapters across the catalog
A viral social media trend known as "The Bird Test" uses a partner's reaction to a casual comment about a bird to gauge the health of a relationship. Based on research by John Gottman regarding "bids for connection," the test measures whether a partner "turns toward" or ignores their significant other. Psychologists warn that while the underlying science of micro-connections is valid, using hidden recordings to test partners on TikTok can be a boundary violation.
Debunk Bot, Conspiracy Theories and AI Interventions
Researchers at American University developed "Debunk Bot," an AI designed to reduce belief in conspiracy theories through logical argumentation. A study led by Thomas Costello found that the bot reduced conspiracy beliefs by an average of 20%. The tool uses a "corpus of information" to provide personalized factual rebuttals to users.
A pre-print study suggests that engaging in dialogues with AI can reduce belief in conspiracy theories by approximately 20%. The research claims these effects are durable over two months and can even impact individuals with deeply entrenched conspiratorial worldviews regarding topics like the moon landing.
A review conducted at University College Cork in Ireland concluded that there are no viable ways to counter conspiracy theories effectively. The study found that "pre-bunking"—the practice of warning people about misinformation before they encounter it—has proven impractical and largely ineffective. Researchers suggest that once these beliefs are established, they are extremely difficult to dislodge through traditional means.
Totalitarianism vs Dictatorship, Scott Adams' Nazi Comparisons
The hosts deconstruct Scott Adams' misunderstanding of Professor Mattias Desmet's theory, noting that Desmet specifies "totalitarianism" rather than "dictatorship." They claim Adams uses "Hitler bombs" as a rhetorical tell to dismiss the theory because he cannot admit he was "duped" into taking the vaccine.
Psychology of Conspiracy Theories, Justice Scalia Pillow
NPR explored the psychological motivations behind conspiracy theories, featuring experts who describe humans as "pattern-seeking" animals who dislike unanswered moral questions. The discussion references the death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, noting how the presence of a pillow near his head was used by some to suggest foul play. Experts argue that these theories provide a sense of agency to those who feel de-platformed or out of power.
Conspiracy Theory Exposure, Moderator Psychological Impact
The Verge report notes that some Facebook moderators began believing the conspiracy theories they were tasked with deleting, such as 9/11 "inside job" claims or Flat Earth theories. The hosts discuss the psychological toll of constant exposure to misinformation and the high turnover rate among moderation staff.
Climate Change as a Psychological Simulation Test
The intense public emotional investment in climate change is analyzed through the lens of "simulation theory" and media-driven memes. Drawing on Eric Hoffer’s "The True Believer," the discussion posits that the public has been conditioned by decades of fearful messaging. A hypothetical "test" of the simulation is proposed, involving extreme weather events or "tidal waves" to see how far the public's perception can be pushed.
Conspiracy Theory, Psychological Projection Study
A study from the British Journal of Social Psychology suggests that people who believe in conspiracy theories are often projecting their own willingness to conspire onto others. The research claims that individuals with Machiavellian tendencies are more likely to endorse such theories. The hosts mock the study as an attempt to pathologize dissent.
