Why Empathy Can Become Dangerous: Dr. Gad Saad Explains | DSH #1638

In this episode, Dr. Gad Saad — professor, author, and expert in evolutionary psychology — breaks down the ideas behind his upcoming book “Suicidal Empathy.” He explains how empathy, when misapplied, becomes destructive, how “parasitic ideas” spread through universities and culture, and why humans often reject basic biological truths. Dr. Saad also discusses his viral past work, his unique academic background, and why understanding human nature is essential for navigating life today. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – The Concept of “Suicidal Empathy” 01:02 – Why Dr. Saad Wrote the New Book 02:40 – Evolutionary Psychology & Human Behavior 03:50 – How Ideology Hijacks Thinking 05:15 – University Culture & Parasitic Ideas 06:40 – Empathy Misapplied in Modern Society 08:02 – Are Colleges Moving Back to Center? 09:18 – Happiness, Meaning & Modern Decline 10:40 – Mating Psychology & Choosing a Partner ⭐ WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 🧠 Why empathy can become harmful when misapplied 📚 How “parasitic ideas” spread through universities 🧬 Why biology still shapes human behavior 🎓 Why academia struggles with reality-based thinking 💔 Why relationship success relies on matching values ⭐ The psychology behind happiness and fulfillment 🔥 How modern culture confuses kindness with self-destruction 👥 Why assortative mating predicts long-term success 🧩 How ideology overrides logic and common sense 🌍 Why societies thrive or decline based on shared values 🎙️ APPLY OR CONNECT 👉 Apply to be on the podcast: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application 📩 Business inquiries / sponsors: jenna@digitalsocialhour.com 👤 GUEST: ♟️Dr. Gad Saad - https://www.instagram.com/doctorgadsaad/? 💼 SPONSORS QUINCE: https://quince.com/dsh 🥗 Fuel your health with Viome: https://buy.viome.com/SEAN Use code “Sean” at checkout for a discount! 🎧 LISTEN ON 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759 📸 Sean Kelly Instagram: @seanmikekelly ⚠️ DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are solely those of the individuals appearing on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team. While we encourage open and honest discussions, Sean Kelly is not legally responsible for any statements, claims, or opinions made by guests during the show. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice where appropriate. The content shared is for entertainment and informational purposes only — it should not be taken as legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. We strive to present accurate and reliable information; however, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or accuracy. The views expressed are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent those of the producers or affiliates of this program. 🔥 Stay tuned for more episodes featuring top creators, founders, and innovators shaping the digital world! 🔑 Keywords gad saad interview, suicidal empathy book, parasitic mind ideas, evolutionary psychology explained, university ideology, cultural relativism debate, empathy misapplied, mating psychology, assortative mating Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices