Added: Nov 1, 2023
In the podcast episode, Erica Colberg interviews Michael M. Krishna, an expert in human behavior. They discuss various topics related to self-esteem, mental health, the impact of social media, and the role of algorithms in shaping our information infrastructure.Krishna begins by explaining the concept of self-esteem, which is the gap between one's ideal self and their perceived real self. He emphasizes that high self-esteem does not necessarily mean being awesome, but rather having a smaller gap between the ideal and real self. He encourages individuals to understand themselves better and recognize that every trait has both positive and negative effects. By closing the gap between the ideal and real self, one can improve their self-esteem.
The conversation then shifts to the impact of social media, particularly Instagram, on mental health. Krishna mentions that there is an ongoing debate about whether Instagram has directly caused the decline in mental health, especially among young girls. However, he explains that the theory of human behavior supports the idea that the idealized lives portrayed on social media can create a mismatch between what people want and what is actually achievable. This can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness.
Krishna further explores the issue of information aggregation and the role of algorithms in shaping our perception of reality. He argues that the algorithms used by social media platforms and search engines are designed to maximize engagement, often at the expense of our well-being. He raises concerns about dating apps, suggesting that they may show users profiles of people who are almost right for them, keeping them engaged but preventing them from finding a truly compatible match.
The conversation then delves into the importance of credibility-enhancing displays and the need to verify information. Krishna explains that humans are wired to seek out information from credible sources and to be skeptical of claims made by others. He highlights the value of reputation and costly displays in establishing credibility. He also discusses the concept of hypocrisy and how people are more interested in negative information about others because it helps them assess trustworthiness.
Krishna goes on to discuss the rise of anxiety and depression in modern society. He explains that anxiety is a result of our evolutionary need to be vigilant and aware of potential dangers. In the past, anxiety would be triggered by a rustle in the bushes, which could indicate the presence of a predator. In the modern world, anxiety is often caused by the fear of missing out on opportunities or not achieving one's goals. Krishna suggests that recognizing the mismatch between expectations and reality can help alleviate anxiety.
Krishna emphasizes the importance of being the author of one's own software, meaning taking control of the information one consumes and the beliefs one holds. He encourages individuals to seek out diverse perspectives, engage with people they disagree with, and steelman their arguments to arrive at the truth. He also discusses the need to teach children how to navigate the digital world, discern credible sources, and critically evaluate information.
The next topic discussed is the need for a collective brain in education. Krishna explains that teachers should be incentivized to share information and be allowed to explore other curricula. He emphasizes the importance of doubling down on technology and an internet-enabled education system. By constantly trialing new things and adapting to the changing world, education can be more effective and relevant.
The podcast also delves into the issue of math education. Krishna points out that many people feel let down by math education, either feeling that they are not good at it or that it is not useful in their lives. He argues that the education system should focus on teaching the fundamental concepts of math rather than getting caught up in complex mechanics. With the help of technology, calculations can be done easily, and the focus should be on understanding the concepts and their practical applications.
Krishna highlights the example of Estonia, which has swapped homework and schoolwork in their education system. Students learn from the best educators online at home and then come to school to practice and receive guidance. This approach allows for more personalized learning and ensures that students are exposed to high-quality educational material.
The podcast also touches on the importance of preparing children for the future. Krishna suggests that parents should consider the upcoming world of AI and instant access to knowledge. He emphasizes the need for children to develop skills such as focus and the ability to discern reliable information. In a world where information is readily available, knowing how to find the best sources and who to learn from becomes crucial.
The discussion then shifts to the topic of attractiveness and its evolutionary significance. Krishna explains that attractiveness is not arbitrary but is tied to signs of fertility and health. He discusses how cultural cues and fashion trends have changed over time, reflecting societal values and perceptions of attractiveness. He also emphasizes the importance of creating a healthy environment during pregnancy to optimize the chances of producing a healthy and attractive child.
Krishna then addresses the question of whether IQ scores will continue to rise or if there will be a plateau. He explains that IQ scores in the developed world have plateaued and even decreased in some places, suggesting that our cultural and educational systems have not kept pace with the changing world. However, he believes that IQ scores can and will go back up once we redesign the way we educate children and utilize AI as a mediator and teacher.
He highlights that while IQ tests may indicate certain levels of intelligence, they do not necessarily determine a person's success or contributions to society. He emphasizes that intelligence is not fixed and can be improved through education and actively seeking out new information and experiences.
Krishna discusses the evolution of IQ tests and how they have become more abstract and culture-free over time. However, he acknowledges that IQ tests still need to catch up with the changing world and the skills required in the present day. He suggests that new measures of human intelligence are needed to capture the evolving software of the human mind.
The guest explains that IQ scores are generally stable over a person's lifetime if they are passive recipients of information. However, he cites studies and experiments that show education can significantly raise IQ scores. He encourages active seeking of information to increase intelligence.
Kishna goes on to share his blueprint for setting children up for success, which includes creating a healthy and nurturing environment during the gestational stage, providing a value for education and reading, and actively seeking out new software updates for the child's mind. He emphasizes the importance of being an effective and efficient person as a parent and finding ways to optimize various aspects of life.
Krishna discusses controversial aspects of his parenting approach, such as early potty training and avoiding strict routines. He explains that these decisions were based on research and practices from different cultures around the world. He encourages parents to find what works best for their children and themselves, while also taking care of their own well-being.
Krishna concludes by encouraging listeners to think about the moments in their lives when they were in the flow and fulfilled, and to identify the different aspects of themselves that need to be fulfilled. He suggests optimizing life to feed and fulfill those different aspects, creating win-win situations for oneself and others.
