Walls of Perception: See Reality Hidden Behind Ego Blind Spots, Innate Biases & Terrible Logic

Do we see reality? In this thought-provoking episode, host Sam Webster Harris challenges us to shake off our nature and break down our barriers of perception. Delving into psychology and real-world examples, he reveals how our ego can lead us to make unreasonable judgments, erect barriers, and neglect the deeper connections we share with all people. Learn how flawed assumptions fuel prejudice, tribalism, racism, and sexism and enable atrocities throughout history. Discover why emphasizing similarities over differences allows us to build bridges, make wiser decisions, and lead with love. An insightful listen that will open your mind and heart to the endless ways we are united in our basic desires and capabilities. It is ideal for those seeking perspective, patience, and loving-kindness in divisive times. Equip yourself with the tools to move beyond bias, understand different views, and extend compassion - even to your enemies. It’s Christmas and a time for increasing love in the world and focusing on understanding each other better instead of amplifying our differences and pushing ourselves apart. If humanity's final exam is how we treat each other, this podcast will help you pass with flying colors. - - - On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create. Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be. - - - Connect with Sam: Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive Thinking Watch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset) Twitter - @samjamharris Instagram - @SamJam.zen Youtube - @Samjam - - - Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvement Episode: Walls of Perception: See reality hidden behind ego blind spots, innate biases & terrible logic Chapters: 00:00 Our focus on differences 00:34 Acast Ad break 02:13 Chimpanzees and Humans 05:22 New York vs. London 07:46 Similarities and differences of siblings 12:10 Dangers of focusing on our differences 14:27 Nazi's, Milei and our need for hope 18:19 Acast Ad break 18:27 Modern day: Isreal Hamas war 21:09 Racism and biases fueling war over compassion 21:48 Combating Sexism and Patriarchy 23:50 When feminism can create poor assumptions 26:27 Don't compare edge cases 28:52 Overcoming tribalism 31:42 Applying compassion over Christmas holiday 33:11 Send off Topics Ego blind spots Innate biases First principles thinking Develop a growth mindset Divisive politics Finding common ground and practical solutions Patriarchy, sexism, and feminism Racism, colonialism, war-mongering and paths to peace The issues behind Israel and Gaza Understanding your enemies Seeing reality Clouded thinking and poor logic Developing wisdom and understanding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices