Episode
#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
2:57:30
Published: Fri Oct 30 2020
Description
Eric Weinstein is a mathematical physicist, podcaster, and intellectual. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: - Grammarly: https://grammarly.com/lex to get 20% off premium - Sun Basket: https://sunbasket.com/lex and use code LEX to get $35 off - SEMrush: https://www.semrush.com/partner/lex/ to get a free month of Guru - ExpressVPN: https://expressvpn.com/lexpod and use code LexPod to get 3 months free EPISODE LINKS: Eric's Twitter: https://twitter.com/EricRWeinstein Eric's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ericweinsteinphd The Portal podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-portal/id1469999563 PODCAST INFO: Podcast website: https://lexfridman.com/podcast Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lwqZIr Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2nEwCF8 RSS: https://lexfridman.com/feed/podcast/ YouTube Full Episodes: https://youtube.com/lexfridman YouTube Clips: https://youtube.com/lexclips SUPPORT & CONNECT: - Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcast - Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lexfridman - Twitter: https://twitter.com/lexfridman - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexfridman - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexfridman - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LexFridmanPage - Medium: https://medium.com/@lexfridman OUTLINE: Here's the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time. 00:00 - Introduction 07:46 - Eddie Van Halen 15:26 - Leonard Cohen 23:22 - Battle between ego and humility 28:38 - Darkness and beauty 35:20 - Jimi Hendrix 38:08 - Good Will Hunting 42:16 - Revolutionary minds 53:49 - Next Elon Musk should come from MIT 58:14 - Love with save the world 1:03:30 - Are we headed toward a civil war? 1:15:04 - Joe Rogan 1:28:52 - Our political leaders 1:34:11 - Younger people should have more power 1:44:30 - The Portal 2:09:20 - Money 2:11:26 - Roger Penrose 2:19:06 - Jeffrey Epstein 2:37:44 - We need to get off this planet 2:40:41 - An update on Geometric Unity 2:46:33 - Gratitude
Chapters
The host talks about using AI to improve his writing and mentions two authors, Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce.
00:00 - 03:46 (03:46)
Summary
The host talks about using AI to improve his writing and mentions two authors, Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce. He also promotes the podcast and asks listeners to support him in various ways.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
SunBasket is offering $35 off on their meal delivery service when customers use the promo code Lex at checkout.
03:46 - 09:28 (05:41)
Summary
SunBasket is offering $35 off on their meal delivery service when customers use the promo code Lex at checkout.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The podcast discusses Eddie Van Halen's musical innovations in drawing from the classical canon and his contribution to rock music as an infinitely extensible medium, along with his famous hits such as "Eruption" and "Running with the Devil".
09:28 - 15:39 (06:11)
Summary
The podcast discusses Eddie Van Halen's musical innovations in drawing from the classical canon and his contribution to rock music as an infinitely extensible medium, along with his famous hits such as "Eruption" and "Running with the Devil".
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
A discussion on analyzing a song's chord progression, including the use of tonic and major-minor changes.
15:39 - 19:43 (04:03)
Summary
A discussion on analyzing a song's chord progression, including the use of tonic and major-minor changes.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The podcast discusses Leonard Cohen's music and how it encompasses dystopian themes and mixes different elements, leaving the listener confused yet entranced.
19:43 - 25:08 (05:24)
Summary
The podcast discusses Leonard Cohen's music and how it encompasses dystopian themes and mixes different elements, leaving the listener confused yet entranced.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker reflects on how the depression in Leonard Cohen's life and the criticism faced by Peter Thiel on his thought process, can cast a shadow on hope and love in an individual's life.
25:08 - 35:38 (10:29)
Summary
The speaker reflects on how the depression in Leonard Cohen's life and the criticism faced by Peter Thiel on his thought process, can cast a shadow on hope and love in an individual's life.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The guests discusses the unique humor of Robin Williams in his later years, as well as the accomplishments of people who voluntarily give up attending Harvard, and the connection that can be formed through podcasts.
35:40 - 42:36 (06:56)
Summary
The guests discusses the unique humor of Robin Williams in his later years, as well as the accomplishments of people who voluntarily give up attending Harvard, and the connection that can be formed through podcasts.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The discussion about the limits of low hanging fruit and the infinite effectiveness of the human mind leads to a debate about privilege and perspective.
42:36 - 47:45 (05:08)
Summary
The discussion about the limits of low hanging fruit and the infinite effectiveness of the human mind leads to a debate about privilege and perspective.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker argues that the focus on critical race theory, critical theory, post-modernism, fairness, and social justice is making people worse and that empowering innovators and geniuses does not require a large number of people.
47:45 - 52:33 (04:47)
Summary
The speaker argues that the focus on critical race theory, critical theory, post-modernism, fairness, and social justice is making people worse and that empowering innovators and geniuses does not require a large number of people. Instead, really smart people want to be free to focus on ideas without worrying about basic needs.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker suggests that young faculty should have more power in academia and administration should have less.
52:33 - 56:26 (03:52)
Summary
The speaker suggests that young faculty should have more power in academia and administration should have less. This would benefit progress and the growth of the story moving forward.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker believes that technology holds the solution to the problem of online trolls, and that a better version of Twitter could be built to combat the issue.
56:26 - 1:04:15 (07:49)
Summary
The speaker believes that technology holds the solution to the problem of online trolls, and that a better version of Twitter could be built to combat the issue. However, they also acknowledge that ultimately, the problem of trolls lies with human nature.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The chaos and division caused by protests or a disputed election could lead to meta-violence, which is a danger to the unity of the United States.
1:04:15 - 1:10:24 (06:09)
Summary
The chaos and division caused by protests or a disputed election could lead to meta-violence, which is a danger to the unity of the United States. It could result in people feeling like physical violence is their only solution to make their voices heard, leading to a loss of unity in the country.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Bret and Eric Weinstein explore the motivations behind trolling and online behavior, questioning whether there is some genius-level of trolling that deserves recognition versus the sanctimonious hypocrisy often present online.
1:10:25 - 1:15:19 (04:53)
Summary
Bret and Eric Weinstein explore the motivations behind trolling and online behavior, questioning whether there is some genius-level of trolling that deserves recognition versus the sanctimonious hypocrisy often present online.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Comedian Joe Rogan has become a central figure in the cancel culture, and is waging a war against the establishment by being a good person and speaking honestly for hours.
1:15:19 - 1:25:18 (09:58)
Summary
Comedian Joe Rogan has become a central figure in the cancel culture, and is waging a war against the establishment by being a good person and speaking honestly for hours. His misgivings about the cognitive decline of Joe Biden are reflective of the concerns of many Americans.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker discusses the strangeness of being friends with someone who loves their expensive toys and mentions a hit piece they wrote about Jesus.
1:25:18 - 1:29:01 (03:43)
Summary
The speaker discusses the strangeness of being friends with someone who loves their expensive toys and mentions a hit piece they wrote about Jesus.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The country needs people who can integrate and are not partisan warriors.
1:29:01 - 1:37:38 (08:36)
Summary
The country needs people who can integrate and are not partisan warriors. Billionaires could help restore the national conversation by funding projects to search for new ideas and meaningful conversations to build a better future.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The Portal and other new technology platforms have given power to younger generations, empowering them to affect change in the world.
1:37:38 - 1:40:26 (02:48)
Summary
The Portal and other new technology platforms have given power to younger generations, empowering them to affect change in the world. This shift challenges the traditional idea that only the older generations have the ability to move the world.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker shares their experience of seeing people moved to do anything, both good and bad, because of the power of a figure who can deliver a rousing and intelligent speech.
1:40:26 - 1:44:29 (04:03)
Summary
The speaker shares their experience of seeing people moved to do anything, both good and bad, because of the power of a figure who can deliver a rousing and intelligent speech. They believe that such figures exist in the tech and engineering world.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker provides a shoutout to two entities: Steven Cates, a personal trainer who found him on the street, and Fitbit.
1:44:30 - 1:49:41 (05:11)
Summary
The speaker provides a shoutout to two entities: Steven Cates, a personal trainer who found him on the street, and Fitbit. He claims both of them have triggered a significant change in his life.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The conversation revolves around fame and marketing, and how people in the public eye navigate it.
1:49:41 - 1:53:34 (03:53)
Summary
The conversation revolves around fame and marketing, and how people in the public eye navigate it. The guest shares their view on the power of a passionate fanbase and how marketing tactics can often reduce individuals to one-dimensional caricatures.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The tobacco industry had to put its archives on the web as part of the tobacco settlement, shedding light on their strategies and tactics of destruction.
1:53:34 - 1:58:35 (05:01)
Summary
The tobacco industry had to put its archives on the web as part of the tobacco settlement, shedding light on their strategies and tactics of destruction. In the same way, every person is signed up to be ruined by the system, no matter who you are, and every smart person has blind spots that can quickly diminish their influence.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The current political climate is unstable and dangerous for smart people who are navigating a highly technical world mediated through social media.
1:58:35 - 2:03:17 (04:42)
Summary
The current political climate is unstable and dangerous for smart people who are navigating a highly technical world mediated through social media. The need for trustworthy individuals is essential, and it's crucial to have people who are qualified to handle the challenges faced in society today.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker discusses how moderates and the "swamp people" are the same and highlights the issue of politicians leaving office and immediately becoming lobbyists while still having cozy relationships with those they were supposed to regulate.
2:03:17 - 2:06:28 (03:11)
Summary
The speaker discusses how moderates and the "swamp people" are the same and highlights the issue of politicians leaving office and immediately becoming lobbyists while still having cozy relationships with those they were supposed to regulate.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Summary
Despite having F.U. money, many people choose to remain prisoners of their wealth. Giving away money can break this cycle and free you from mental imprisonment.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Roger Penrose was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on black holes and the theory of relativity.
2:10:52 - 2:15:24 (04:31)
Summary
Roger Penrose was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on black holes and the theory of relativity. His groundbreaking work has given value to the prize, rather than the prize giving value to him.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The reputation of many strong scientists was weakened and the institution of MIT was affected.
2:15:24 - 2:21:05 (05:41)
Summary
The reputation of many strong scientists was weakened and the institution of MIT was affected. The rules were bent for Jeffrey Epstein's benefit at MIT.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The conversation explores the complexities and possible conspiracy theories surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, from his connections with scientists to his questionable behavior with young women.
2:21:05 - 2:27:04 (05:59)
Summary
The conversation explores the complexities and possible conspiracy theories surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, from his connections with scientists to his questionable behavior with young women.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The world with conspiracy theories and without looks the same, but responsible conspiracy theorizing involves looking at the history of unearthed conspiracies and applying the same rules used for any other topic.
2:27:04 - 2:32:50 (05:46)
Summary
The world with conspiracy theories and without looks the same, but responsible conspiracy theorizing involves looking at the history of unearthed conspiracies and applying the same rules used for any other topic. The assassination of Mahmoud al-Mabhouh in Dubai in 2010 involved 26 individuals on multiple teams converging with false passports.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker argues that most scientists do not have a strong enough commitment to science and research to withstand the political climate and funding cuts.
2:32:50 - 2:37:09 (04:19)
Summary
The speaker argues that most scientists do not have a strong enough commitment to science and research to withstand the political climate and funding cuts. He also points out that the US conducts research like a wealthy society and that this mentality needs to change.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The discussion centers around the importance of creating plans to avoid future crises, no matter how silly or childish they may seem, and each person working on the plan they believe is best.
2:37:09 - 2:40:34 (03:25)
Summary
The discussion centers around the importance of creating plans to avoid future crises, no matter how silly or childish they may seem, and each person working on the plan they believe is best.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The Renormalization Revolution taught physicists the importance of understanding how coupling constants run and what kind of UV fixed points exist.
2:40:35 - 2:45:19 (04:44)
Summary
The Renormalization Revolution taught physicists the importance of understanding how coupling constants run and what kind of UV fixed points exist. The speaker expresses concerns about the future of theoretical physics after the current generation retires, but also discusses the revolutionary impact of the podcast medium on discourse.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Comparing Van Halen's musical influence to that of Roy Buchanan, the speaker highlights the unique ability of Van Halen to inspire and lead the way in the music industry.
2:45:19 - 2:49:53 (04:33)
Summary
Comparing Van Halen's musical influence to that of Roy Buchanan, the speaker highlights the unique ability of Van Halen to inspire and lead the way in the music industry. Additionally, the speaker discusses the uplifting effect of music and the importance of context in understanding its power.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
The speaker is stepping away from their podcast due to their frustration with the political system's attempt to control the discourse and their desire to maintain their integrity during an election cycle.
2:49:53 - 2:55:39 (05:46)
Summary
The speaker is stepping away from their podcast due to their frustration with the political system's attempt to control the discourse and their desire to maintain their integrity during an election cycle.
Episode#134 – Eric Weinstein: On the Nature of Good and Evil, Genius and Madness
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
In this episode, Lex has a conversation with Eric Weinstein, discussing the origins of Eric's intellectual passion, his insights into geometric unity and the deep structure of reality, the notion of closed and open societies, and his thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic.
2:55:40 - 2:57:05 (01:25)
Summary
In this episode, Lex has a conversation with Eric Weinstein, discussing the origins of Eric's intellectual passion, his insights into geometric unity and the deep structure of reality, the notion of closed and open societies, and his thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic.