New research suggests people on opposite sides of wedge issues want to listen to each other. We are each eager to hear differing opinions and understand opposing views, and when we do it can change our minds (at least a little), but only when we aren't triggered by the psychological phenomenon of reactance - one of several ideas we explore in this episode.
... Show More
Sep 14
348 - The Dress - Decoder Ring
We return to The Dress and the psychological lessons offered by one of the most viral moments in the history of the internet via an episode of Decoder Ring in which David McRaney shares some insights from his book, How Minds Change, with Willa Paskin, the host of Decoder Ring.Dec ... Show More
43m 31s
Aug 31
347 - Under Alien Skies - Phil Plait
Astronomer Phil Plait joins us to discuss his new book, Under Alien Skies, in which he describes what it would be like (through human eyes and real physical experiences) to actually travel to Saturn, Mars, asteroids, and distant stars. Also, we discuss the recent surge in UFO sig ... Show More
1h 10m
Aug 2022
You 2.0: How to Open Your Mind
<p>In the United States, we often praise people with strong convictions, and look down on those who express doubt or hesitation. In this favorite 2021 episode, psychologist <a href="https://mgmt.wharton.upenn.edu/profile/grantad/">Adam Grant</a> pushes back against the benefits ... Show More
52m 21s
Oct 2022
Relationships 2.0: How To Keep Conflict From Spiraling
<p>When it comes to conflict, most of us just want to shut it down. But psychological research is increasingly taking a different approach to discord, with profound implications for disputes big and small. This week, we kick off our Relationships 2.0 series by asking: what if we ... Show More
53m 58s
Apr 2025
How to Handle Different Opinions Mindfully
Differing opinions are inevitable, but how we respond matters. Learn mindfulness-based strategies to pause, listen actively, and set boundaries when needed—fostering connection instead of division, even in challenging conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megapho ... Show More
6m 15s