Podcast appearances and mentions of Brian Klaas

Political scientist and journalist from the United States

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Best podcasts about Brian Klaas

Latest podcast episodes about Brian Klaas

You Are Not So Smart
314 - Fluke - Brian Klaas (rebroadcast)

You Are Not So Smart

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 54:19


In this episode we sit down with Brian Klaas, author of Fluke, and get into the existential lessons and grander meaning for a life well-lived (once one finally accepts the power and influence of randomness, chaos, and chance). In addition, we learn not to fall prey to proportionality bias - the tendency for human brains to assume big, historical, or massively impactful events must have had big causes and/or complex machinations underlying their grand outcomes. It's one of the cognitive biases that most contributes to conspiratorial thinking and grand conspiracy theories, one that leads to an assumption that there must be something more going on when big, often unlikely, events make the evening news. Yet, as Brian explains, events big and small are often the result of random inputs in complex systems interacting in ways that are difficult to predict.Previous EpisodesBrian KlaasFlukeHow Minds ChangeDavid McRaney's TwitterDavid McRaney's BlueSkyYANSS TwitterYANSS FacebookNewsletterKittedPatreon 

The One You Feed
Fluke or Fate? Embracing Uncertainty to Live a Fuller Life with Brian Klaas

The One You Feed

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 56:54 Transcription Available


In this episode, Brian Klaas explains the concept of whether things are a fluke or fate, and explores how embracing uncertainty can lead to a living a fuller life. Brian makes the case that randomness and chaos might be exactly what makes our lives matter so much, and how we tend to worship at the “Altar of Progress in the Church of Control.” We make plans, set goals, and these are good things, but we only have so much control. And Brian teaches that accepting this can be a relief, because the point isn’t to control everything, but to influence what we can. Key Takeaways: The concept of happiness derived from intrinsic values rather than material possessions and social status. The importance of thoughts and actions in shaping our lives and experiences. Exploration of chaos theory and the unpredictability of life. The idea that we control nothing but influence everything, emphasizing the ripple effects of our actions. Personal stories illustrating how random events can profoundly impact lives. The empowering nature of recognizing the influence of our choices. The tension between control and acceptance of life’s randomness. The critique of societal values that prioritize material success over personal fulfillment and relationships. Encouragement to embrace individual uniqueness and create for personal expression rather than external validation. If you enjoyed this conversation with Brian Klaas, check out these other episodes: What If You’re Wrong? How Uncertainty Makes Us More Human with William Egginton How to Find Zest in Life with Dr. John Kaag Unsafe Thinking with Jonah Sachs For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Today Podcast
What's different about Trump 2.0?

The Today Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 54:45


In the first six weeks of his second term Donald Trump has rewritten US foreign policy, fractured the Nato alliance, dismantled parts of the US government and signed various presidential orders on everything from border security to diversity programmes. In this episode Nick and Amol are joined by Brian Klaas, professor of global politics at University College London and a writer for The Atlantic magazine, who thinks Trump is undermining democracy and global security (07:44).And Nick tells Amol about his exclusive interview with Rishi Sunak (44:36).To get Amol and Nick's take on the biggest stories and insights from behind the scenes at the UK's most influential radio news programme make sure you hit subscribe on BBC Sounds. That way you'll get an alert every time we release a new episode, and you won't miss our extra bonus episodes either. GET IN TOUCH: * Send us a message or a voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 4346 * Email today@bbc.co.uk The Today Podcast is hosted by Amol Rajan and Nick Robinson who are both presenters of BBC Radio 4's Today programme. Amol was the BBC's media editor for six years and is the former editor of the Independent, he's also the current presenter of University Challenge. Nick has presented the Today programme since 2015, he was the BBC's political editor for ten years before that and also previously worked as ITV's political editor. This episode was made by Lewis Vickers with Nadia Gyane and Grace Reeve. Digital production was by Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Jonny Baker. The editor is Louisa Lewis. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.

A-kursen
78. Omgiven av karismatiska ledare (A-kursen i sekter)

A-kursen

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 40:28


Idag kanske inte så många oroar sig för att fastna i klorna på en religiös sekt. Däremot radikaliseras allt fler på nätet och personkulterna tycks vara på uppgång. Men varför sker mer radikalisering i samhället just nu och hur mycket paralleller går det att dra mellan religiösa sekter och den politiska utveckling vi ser idag? Det svarar Håkan Järvå på som är legitimerad psykolog och expert på sekter och radikalisering. Dessutom pratar Emma och Clara om Livets Ords uppgång och fall, sektschismen mellan religionsvetare och psykologer och att karisma kanske inte är en helt positiv egenskap.Klipp och musik:Djungelboken, Lita på mejThe France 24 Observers, Russia- the cult of PutinCNN, Convicted Jan. 6 participant Trump is a 'dangerous' cult leaderThe Science and Cocktails Foundation, Why do we get the wrong leaders? Brian Klaas at Science and CocktailsCarola talar i tungorAftonbladet, Jobbade för Matilda Djerf- ”Aldrig varit så rädd”Livets ord, Videohälsning från Janne och SebastianVår tenta i sekter hittar du på instagram, @akursen_poddmail: akursenpodd@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hidden Brain
Wellness 2.0: The Art of the Unknown

Hidden Brain

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 49:29


"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." It's been 45 years since John Lennon sang that line, yet it's an idea that continues to speak to an uncomfortable truth. While we all like to think we have some measure of control over how our lives will unfold, our plans are often upended by unknown events and curveballs we couldn't have predicted. This week, we conclude our Wellness 2.0 series by talking with political scientist Brian Klaas. He studies how we respond to the random events that shape our lives, and how we can turn them to our advantage.If you enjoy this episode, be sure to check out "Wellness 2.0: Engineering Luck," our companion conversation with Brian Klass for Hidden Brain+ subscribers. We'll talk about the unexpected benefits of embracing the role of randomness and chance in our lives. If you're not yet a member of Hidden Brain+, this is a particularly good time to give our podcast subscription a try. We're extending our standard seven-day trial period for listeners on Apple Podcasts. Sign up in January and you'll get 30 free days to try it out. If you're listening in Apple Podcasts, just go to the Hidden Brain show page and click "try free." Or you can go to apple.co/hiddenbrain and click "try free.” Thanks for listening and supporting the show — we really appreciate it. 

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast
Brian Klaas & Matt Tyrnauer

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2025 36:51 Transcription Available


Director Matt Tyrnauer examines how Gore Vidal's legacy resonates through today’s political lens. Author Brian Klaas details strategies to fortify ourselves against the challenges of a potential Trump 2.0 administration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American History Hit
Was the Civil War Won by Chance?

American History Hit

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2024 34:43


How did a couple's holiday save Kyoto from certain ruin? How did a landslide contribute to the Revolutionary War? Basically, how have chance encounters and decisions influenced the history of the United States?Don is joined for this episode by Brian Klaas, author of 'Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters'.Brian is a political scientist, a contributing writer at The Atlantic, and an associate professor in global politics at University College London.Produced by Sophie Gee. Edited by Nick Thomson. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.  You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3 Media

The Daily Beans
Refried Beans | An Official Proceeding (feat. Brian Klaas) | Dec 15, 2021

The Daily Beans

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2024 61:35


December 15, 2021In the Hot Notes: Congress votes to hold Mark Meadows in criminal contempt of Congress; top Pence aid Kieth Kellogg is cooperating with the Committee; the Senate has passed a bill giving the Capitol Police Chief unilateral power to summon the National Guard; the DC Attorney General is suing the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers over the Capitol attack; a Mazars accountant and a Deutsche Bank lender take the stand in Manhattan; plus Allison and Dana deliver your Good News. Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

Nopadol's Story
24 ข้อคิดที่ได้จาก Brian Klaas ผู้เขียนหนังสือ Fluke

Nopadol's Story

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2024 27:15


24 ข้อคิดที่ได้จาก Brian Klaas ผู้เขียนหนังสือ Fluke มาเล่าถึงข้อคิดที่ผมได้ไปฟังจากคุณ Brian Klaas ผู้เขียนหนังสือ Fluke เผื่อจะได้นำเอาไอเดียไปต่อยอดกันได้ครับ

American History Hit
Elections Explained: A History of Rigged Elections

American History Hit

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 36:21


Invisible ink, delayed flights and political meddling - elections are a symbol of democracy, so how can they become the opposite?Don is joined for this episode by Brian Klaas, co-author of 'How to Rig an Election' to find out. What makes a free and fair election? What techniques have authoritarians used to have themselves elected? And how widespread has this been throughout history?Brian is a political scientist, a contributing writer at The Atlantic, and an associate professor in global politics at University College London.Produced by Sophie Gee. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign here for up to 50% for 3 months using code AMERICANHISTORYYou can take part in our listener survey here.American History Hit is a History Hit podcast.

OH GOD, WHAT NOW? Formerly Remainiacs

The US election is hanging in the balance with either candidate looking just as likely to win in November. Brian Klaas, author of Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters and professor of global politics at University College London, says it's “absurd” that the race is as close as it is and joins the panel to explain how catastrophic a Trump 2.0 Presidency could be. And in the second half, we went to see the new biopic ‘The Apprentice' which Trump called a “politically disgusting hatchet job”. How was it, and has it damaged the former President's campaign or fired him up? We're on YouTube!: https://www.youtube.com/@ohgodwhatnow   www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Andrew Harrison, Matt Green and Yasmeen Serhan. Producer: Chris Jones. Audio production by: Robin Leeburn. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AlternativeRadio
[Brian Klaas] Chaos, Chance & Choice

AlternativeRadio

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 57:00


As a kid, did you ever play "What If"? Like, what if the Kennedys, Dr. King and Malcolm X weren't gunned down in the 1960s? Like, what if the votes in Florida were counted and Al Gore won the 2000 election? What if the U.S. did not support the jihadis in Afghanistan? What if the U.S. did not invade Iraq? History, the world would have been very different. And on a personal level: what if your partner didn't take that job baking bread you never would have met? What if you got stuck in traffic and missed your job interview? You get the point. Why do things happen? Random chance events can divert our lives and change everything. Social scientist Brian Klaas examines this phenomenon and the chaos it can sow. Recorded at Carleton College.

MPR News with Kerri Miller
Rural Voice: How to build more civic-minded communities

MPR News with Kerri Miller

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 83:28


How do we restore trust in civic institutions and nurture a renewed sense of possibility in a shared future? That was the central question animating the Rural Voice community discussion MPR News host Kerri Miller led at the Sheldon Theatre in Red Wing on Thursday. She was joined by political scientist and Minnesota native Brian Klaas, who set the stage by describing the bleak realities of the political landscape in America right now. People feel disempowered and divided. Trust in institutions is low. Democracy feels fragile. But the citizens of Red Wing believe there is hope. They shared stories from their own community of how real problems have been solved, despite political differences. They talked through some of the obstacles, like how to be more inclusive and how to deal with the constant drumbeat of negativity in online spaces. And Klaas gave examples of how citizen assemblies — a relatively new process to this country — can break through the partisan gridlock. Rural Voice: How to Build More Civic-Minded CommunitiesThis is the second Rural Voice conversation of the 2024 season, which launched at the Minnesota State Fair. Rural Voice is a series of town halls hosted by Miller about the rewards and challenges of making a home in rural America.

MPR News with Angela Davis
Rural Voice: How to build more civic-minded communities

MPR News with Angela Davis

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 83:28


How do we restore trust in civic institutions and nurture a renewed sense of possibility in a shared future? That was the central question animating the Rural Voice community discussion MPR News host Kerri Miller led at the Sheldon Theatre in Red Wing on Thursday. She was joined by political scientist and Minnesota native Brian Klaas, who set the stage by describing the bleak realities of the political landscape in America right now. People feel disempowered and divided. Trust in institutions is low. Democracy feels fragile. But the citizens of Red Wing believe there is hope. They shared stories from their own community of how real problems have been solved, despite political differences. They talked through some of the obstacles, like how to be more inclusive and how to deal with the constant drumbeat of negativity in online spaces. And Klaas gave examples of how citizen assemblies — a relatively new process to this country — can break through the partisan gridlock. Rural Voice: How to Build More Civic-Minded CommunitiesThis is the second Rural Voice conversation of the 2024 season, which launched at the Minnesota State Fair. Rural Voice is a series of town halls hosted by Miller about the rewards and challenges of making a home in rural America.

Bribe, Swindle or Steal
“Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How it Changes Us”

Bribe, Swindle or Steal

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2024 21:13


Brian Klaas, Associate Professor at University College London and host of the award-winning podcast “Power Corrupts,” joins us to discuss his book “Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us”. Brian describes research on who is drawn to positions of power and how power impacts us, including potentially re-wiring our brains. This episode was originally published 30 March 2022.

The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge
Encore Presentation - Fluke - How Our World Is Swayed By Chance

The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 45:17


Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on February 6th. A feature interview with the author of an extraordinary new book that explores he world of chance, chaos and why everything we do matters. He's Brian Klaas a university professor in London, England. When you hear his stories and his theories you'll be thinking about how your own life has been impacted by  "flukes". I sure did.

The Accidental Creative
Replay: Chaos Theory

The Accidental Creative

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 27:42


If a butterfly flaps its wings in India, will your pizza arrive on time?In this episode, we explore the idea of interconnectedness and the role it plays in our lives and creative work. We delve into how the chaos and randomness of the world influence ideas and decision-making, and some strategies for dealing with the uncertainty. Our guests include Diane Hoskins and Andy Cohen (co-CEO's of Gensler and authors of Design For A Radically Changing World), and Brian Klaas (author of Fluke) as we discuss the strategies and philosophies they employ to navigate the complexity of interconnections, leverage them for greater impact, and cultivate creativity in the face of uncertainty.Key Ideas:1. Overcoming fixation on the first idea: The danger of latching onto the first idea and missing out on alternative, more profound connections.2. Leveraging randomness to our advantage: The idea of fighting randomness with randomness and increasing experimentation to anticipate unintended consequences and broaden the scope of options.3. Collaborative leadership and embracing difference: How harnessing diverse perspectives and bringing together people with different strengths can lead to innovation and problem-solving.4. Balancing local and global perspectives: The importance of understanding both the specifics and the broader patterns to gain deeper insights and have a greater impact.5. Applying creativity to solve global challenges: Utilizing design and creative thinking to address interconnected global issues such as climate change, housing shortages, and social inequalities.Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app

Intelligence Squared
Surprise Gift: How Inherited Generational Traits Underpin Our Societies, with Harvey Whitehouse

Intelligence Squared

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 52:16


Renowned social anthropologist Harvey Whitehouse is Director of the Institute of Cognitive and Evolutionary Anthropology at the University of Oxford and has crisscrossed the globe, living in remote parts of Papua New Guinea as well as sitting down with militias during Libya's Arab Spring uprising, in order to learn what it means to be a human. The groups that have largely been the focus of Whitehouse's work could be an organised religion, a tribe or a kingdom – but perhaps key to them all are the concepts of inherited ritual, allegiances and bias. His latest book, Inheritance: The Evolutionary Origins of the Modern World, asks a new question about how inherited frameworks inform these perspectives. As we face an era of environmental destruction, political destabilisation and wars fought by forces with ever deadlier arsenals, could the same evolutionary traits that have pushed the world towards ever more sophisticated societies now be failing us? Joining Whitehouse to talk about it for this episode is Brian Klaas, Associate Professor in Global Politics at University College London and the author of books including Fluke and Corruptible. Klaas is also a writer for The Atlantic and you can read more of him on his substack, The Garden of Forking Paths. We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/IS for £100 sponsored credit. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all of our longer form interviews and Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events - Our member-only newsletter The Monthly Read, sent straight to your inbox ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series ... Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. ... Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Podcast Notes Playlist: Latest Episodes
#806 - Brian Klaas - Chaos Theory: The Hidden Force That Secretly Controls Your Life

Podcast Notes Playlist: Latest Episodes

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 93:10


Modern Wisdom Key Takeaways Check out the episode pageRead the full notes @ podcastnotes.orgBrian Klaas is a political scientist, a professor at University College London and an author. Small, seemingly insignificant events can have profound effects on the world. But how much of our fate is truly determined by chance, and if chaos plays such a huge role, how much control do we actually have over anything? Expect to learn the chance story of the atomic bomb's targeting, the difference between contingency and convergence, why our brains are so good at distorting reality, the link between Donald Trump's election and the dinosaurs, how a cigar changed the course of the American Revolution, why floorboards in New England are 23 inches wide and much more... Sponsors: See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://chriswillx.com/deals Get $150 discount on Plunge's amazing sauna or cold plunge at https://plunge.com (use code MW150) Get a 20% discount & free shipping on your Lawnmower 5.0 at https://manscaped.com/modernwisdom (use code MODERNWISDOM) Get a Free Sample Pack of all LMNT Flavours with your first box at https://www.drinklmnt.com/modernwisdom (automatically applied at checkout) Extra Stuff: Get my free reading list of 100 books to read before you die: https://chriswillx.com/books Try my productivity energy drink Neutonic: https://neutonic.com/modernwisdom Episodes You Might Enjoy: #577 - David Goggins - This Is How To Master Your Life: https://tinyurl.com/43hv6y59 #712 - Dr Jordan Peterson - How To Destroy Your Negative Beliefs: https://tinyurl.com/2rtz7avf #700 - Dr Andrew Huberman - The Secret Tools To Hack Your Brain: https://tinyurl.com/3ccn5vkp - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chriswillx YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcast Email: https://chriswillx.com/contact - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Modern Wisdom
#806 - Brian Klaas - Chaos Theory: The Hidden Force That Secretly Controls Your Life

Modern Wisdom

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2024 93:10


Brian Klaas is a political scientist, a professor at University College London and an author. Small, seemingly insignificant events can have profound effects on the world. But how much of our fate is truly determined by chance, and if chaos plays such a huge role, how much control do we actually have over anything? Expect to learn the chance story of the atomic bomb's targeting, the difference between contingency and convergence, why our brains are so good at distorting reality, the link between Donald Trump's election and the dinosaurs, how a cigar changed the course of the American Revolution, why floorboards in New England are 23 inches wide and much more... Sponsors: See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://chriswillx.com/deals Get $150 discount on Plunge's amazing sauna or cold plunge at https://plunge.com (use code MW150) Get a 20% discount & free shipping on your Lawnmower 5.0 at https://manscaped.com/modernwisdom (use code MODERNWISDOM) Get a Free Sample Pack of all LMNT Flavours with your first box at https://www.drinklmnt.com/modernwisdom (automatically applied at checkout) Extra Stuff: Get my free reading list of 100 books to read before you die: https://chriswillx.com/books Try my productivity energy drink Neutonic: https://neutonic.com/modernwisdom Episodes You Might Enjoy: #577 - David Goggins - This Is How To Master Your Life: https://tinyurl.com/43hv6y59 #712 - Dr Jordan Peterson - How To Destroy Your Negative Beliefs: https://tinyurl.com/2rtz7avf #700 - Dr Andrew Huberman - The Secret Tools To Hack Your Brain: https://tinyurl.com/3ccn5vkp - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chriswillx YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcast Email: https://chriswillx.com/contact - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast
David Wallace-Wells & Brian Klass

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2024 34:26 Transcription Available


David Wallace-Wells updated us on what he's seeing on the climate change front. Brian Klaas, author of "Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters," examines the current state of democracy in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jordan Harbinger Show
1008: Brian Klaas | Embracing Uncertainty in a World of Flukes

The Jordan Harbinger Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 91:52 Transcription Available


Unexpected moments can change the world. Brian Klaas, author of Fluke, reveals how embracing life's randomness can empower us to make a difference. What We Discuss with Brian Klaas: Tiny actions or events can have massive downstream effects and consequences, as illustrated by historical examples like how a decades-old vacation spared Kyoto from nuclear bombing in WWII. Our lives and human history are shaped by chaos theory and random flukes, such as the asteroid impact that killed the dinosaurs or chance evolutionary events that led to complex life. Humans have cognitive biases that make us seek patterns and explanations, even when events are random. This can lead to superstitions, conspiracy theories, and a false sense of control. Wealth and success are often more influenced by luck and arbitrary factors than we like to admit, challenging the idea of pure meritocracy. While we can't control everything, we can influence the world around us through our actions. By embracing this mindset, we can feel more empowered and find meaning in our daily choices, recognizing that even small moments can have a significant impact on the future. And much more... Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1008 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

Afford Anything
Dr. Brian Klass: The Secret to Financial Resilience

Afford Anything

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 66:12


#516: Have you ever wondered how small, seemingly insignificant actions can have massive impacts on your financial life?  In today's episode, we talk to Dr. Brian Klaas, a Professor at University College London and an affiliate researcher at the University of Oxford.  He explains how our decisions can lead to unintended and unanticipated consequences.  He describes why resilience is more important than efficiency when it comes to protecting your investments and career from unexpected shocks. You'll learn how to tell the difference between predictable problems and those that are full of uncertainty, giving you a new way to think about your decision-making process. Key Takeaways: Embrace the unpredictability of life and recognize the interconnectedness of your actions. Prioritize resilience over efficiency to mitigate catastrophic risks. Understand the difference between predictable and uncertain challenges to make smarter decisions. For more information, visit the show notes at https://affordanything.com/episode516 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Betreutes Fühlen
Wie Macht uns verändert

Betreutes Fühlen

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 82:30


Verdirbt Macht uns Menschen? Um das zu beantworten, klären Leon und Atze heute erst einmal, ob wir Menschen überhaupt Hierarchien brauchen und warum so oft die Falschen Chefs werden. Am Ende gibt es aber noch gute Nachrichten: Wenn wir Macht bekommen, verändert uns das auf jeden Fall, aber nicht zwingend zum Schlechten. Fühlt euch gut betreut Leon & Atze Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonwindscheid/ https://www.instagram.com/atzeschroeder_offiziell/ Der Instagram Account für Betreutes Fühlen: https://www.instagram.com/betreutesfuehlen/ Mehr zu unseren Werbepartnern findet ihr hier: https://linktr.ee/betreutesfuehlen Hier gehts zur neuen Tour von Leon: https://Leonwindscheid.de/tickets Hier Tickets für die Show in Münster sichern: https://betreutesfuehlen.online-ticket.de/muenster-2024 Empfehlungen: Der Podcast von Dr. Brian Klaas heißt “Power Corrupts”. Quellen: Das Buch von dem Politikwissenschaftler Brian Klaas heißt “Corruptible – Who gets Power and How it Changes us” Ein spannender Podcast von der APA mit Prof. Dacher Keltner: https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/power Die meisten Menschen wollen gar keine Chefs sein, das zeigt diese Umfrage: https://hbr.org/2014/09/most-people-dont-want-to-be-managers Hier die Studie mit den Kindern, die eine*n Kapitän*in für ihr Schiff aussuchen sollen: Antonakis, J., & Dalgas, O. (2009). Predicting elections: Child's play!. Science, 323(5918), 1183-1183. Ein Studie zum Zusammenhang zwischen Körpergröße und Macht: Blaker, N. M., Rompa, I., Dessing, I. H., Vriend, A. F., Herschberg, C., & Van Vugt, M. (2013). The height leadership advantage in men and women: Testing evolutionary psychology predictions about the perceptions of tall leaders. Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, 16(1), 17-27. Die Metaanalyse zum Zusammenhang zwischen Psychopathie und Macht: Landay, K., Harms, P. D., & Credé, M. (2019). Shall we serve the dark lords? A meta-analytic review of psychopathy and leadership. Journal of applied psychology, 104(1), 183. Diese Studie zeigt, dass auch emotionale Intelligenz zu Macht verhelfen kann: Côté, S., Lopes, P. N., Salovey, P., & Miners, C. T. (2010). Emotional intelligence and leadership emergence in small groups. The Leadership Quarterly, 21(3), 496-508. Eine gute Übersichtsarbeit zu Macht und Moral: Lammers, J., Galinsky, A. D., Dubois, D., & Rucker, D. D. (2015). Power and morality. Current Opinion in Psychology, 6, 15-19. Und in dieser Übersichtsarbeit findet ihr das Approach-Inhibition-Modell von Prof. Keltner: Keltner, D., Gruenfeld, D. H., & Anderson, C. (2003). Power, approach, and inhibition. Psychological review, 110(2), 265. Redaktion: Mia Mertens Produktion: Murmel Productions

Signposts with Russell Moore
Brian Klaas Tells Me Where I'm Wrong on Chance

Signposts with Russell Moore

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2024 54:20


Every day is full of small decisions, and rarely do we think of them as having great consequences. But if you ask today's guest, Brian Klaas, they very well might. On this episode of The Russell Moore Show, Moore invites Klass—a political scientist, contributing writer at The Atlantic, and associate professor—to tell him where he is wrong on the nature of the universe. Klaas explains why he is a determinist and how that belief system has both similarities and differences to believing in a personal God. The two discuss the high level of pop culture interest in science fiction and the concept of a multiverse. Their conversation covers politics and power, physics and free will, and what reforming broken systems may look like. Resources mentioned in this episode include:  Brian Klaas Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters by Brian Klaas Power Corrupts  Peter Kreeft Dark Matter: A Novel by Blake Crouch Dark Matter Frederick Buechner Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us by Brian Klaas Do you have a question for Russell Moore? Send it to questions@russellmoore.com. Click here for a trial membership at Christianity Today. “The Russell Moore Show” is a production of Christianity Today  Executive Producers: Erik Petrik, Russell Moore, and Mike Cosper  Host: Russell Moore  Producer: Ashley Hales  Associate Producers: Abby Perry and McKenzie Hill Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens Audio engineering by Dan Phelps  Video producer: Abby Egan  Theme Song: “Dusty Delta Day” by Lennon Hutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You Are Not So Smart
288 - Fluke - Brian Klaas

You Are Not So Smart

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2024 50:44


In this episode we sit down with Brian Klaas, author of Fluke,  to get into the existential lessons and grander meaning for a life well-lived once one finally accepts the power and influence of randomness, chaos, and chance. In addition, we learn not to fall prey to proportionality bias - the tendency for human brains to assume big, historical, or massively impactful events must have had big causes and/or complex machinations underlying their grand outcomes. It's one of the cognitive biases that most contributes to conspiratorial thinking and grand conspiracy theories, one that leads to an assumption that there must be something more going on when big, often unlikely, events make the evening news. Yet, as Brian explains, events big and small are often the result of random inputs in complex systems interacting in ways that are difficult to predict.Previous EpisodesBrian KlaasFlukeHow Minds ChangeDavid McRaney's TwitterYANSS TwitterNewsletterPatreon

AlternativeRadio
[Brian Klaas] The Wrong People at the Top

AlternativeRadio

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2024 57:02


Power. What is it? Political theorist Robert Dahl gave one example. He said, “A has power over B to the extent that he can get B to do something that he would not otherwise do.” Why is it that often that those who are on top are the wrong people? The high rollers and the nabobs lust for power behind a smokescreen of homilies about doing good. Today, more and more power is concentrated in the hands of the few, thus weakening democracy. Who wields it? How is it allocated? What are effective ways to ensure power is not abused and serves the societal greater good? How can we organize and protect ourselves from those seeking personal power and profit? How can we get the right people on top?

Smart People Podcast
Brian Klaas - Fluke: How to Use Chance and Chaos to Your Advantage

Smart People Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2024 57:36


If you could rewind your life to the very beginning and then press play, would everything turn out the same? Or could making an accidental phone call or missing an exit off the highway change not just your life, but history itself? And would you remain blind to the radically different possible world you unknowingly left behind? In our episode this week, myth-shattering social scientist Brian Klaas dives deeply into the phenomenon of random chance and the chaos it can sow, taking aim at most people's neat and tidy storybook version of reality. The good news is, we can USE this understanding of randomness and chaos to our advantage, to see the world more clearly, and to focus on the things that matter. Brian's book, Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters, is available now! Learn more about Brian at brianpklaas.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Rocket Money - Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/SMART Babbel - Get 55% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Snow's History Hit
The Atomic Bomb & Civil War Cigars: Greatest 'What Ifs' from History

Dan Snow's History Hit

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2024 29:28


We think of history as a neat chain of predictable events; but what if the truth is far wilder than that? Today, we're talking about the pivotal forces of randomness and chance, and how tiny moments can change the course of our human story.Dan is joined by Brian Klaas, associate professor in global politics at University College London and author of 'Fluke: Chance, Chaos and Why Everything We Do Matters'. Brian unpicks our traditional telling of history, and explains how our world really works.Produced by James Hickmann and edited by Anisha Deva.Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code DANSNOW - sign up at https://historyhit.com/subscription/.We'd love to hear from you - what do you want to hear an episode on? You can email the podcast at ds.hh@historyhit.com.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin
103 — How to Find Peace in the Unknown with Professor/Author Brian Klaas

Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2024 46:08


The fear of the unknown can cause us to over-plan, micromanage, and worry about things that are beyond our control. But coping with uncertainty feels uncomfortable. According to author/professor Brian Klaas, many of the things that shape our lives aren't really within our control. A chance meeting at the grocery store might have a much more profound effect on your life than where you went to college. His book Fluke explains the role chance and chaos play in our lives. But he says everything we do is still important. Some of the things he talks about today are how to embrace radical uncertainty, accept things that you can't control, and recognize why every little thing you do matters. Links & Resources BrianPKlaas.com X — @BrianKlaas Fluke Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)! Offers From Our Sponsors BetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy. Shopify — Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/mentallystronger Connect with the Show Buy Amy's books on mental strength Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Email the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.com Order 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do

The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart
The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart: March 31, 2024

The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2024 41:50


On this week's episode of 'The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart': During the most sacred week for Christians, Donald Trump peddles a $60 bible while doing many things that seem un-Christian. Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis and historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat are here to discuss the real meaning of Easter and why Trump's ramblings on religion are an unholy mess and just another page out of the autocratic playbook. The former president is also facing a deadline to pay a $175M bond in his fraud trial and is still going after the judge in his hush-money trial. Kristy Greenberg is here to talk about why the current gag order on Trump may not be enough to silence him. And everything may not happen for a reason. I spoke with author Brian Klaas, whose new book explores how history is often driven by random events and flukes. All that and more on “The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart.” 

The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell
Lawrence: ‘Racist conman' Trump's debts pose national security risk

The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2024 42:08


Tonight on The Last Word: National security experts sound the alarm over Donald Trump's debt. Also, Democrats tout President Biden's policy achievements in Arizona. Plus, the House Democratic Caucus elects Rep. Joe Neguse as Assistant Leader. And conservative media outlets try to explain away Trump's “blood bath” comment. Amb. Susan Rice, Andrew Weissmann, Sen. Mark Kelly, Rep. Joe Neguse, and Brian Klaas join Lawrence O'Donnell.

Intelligence Squared
Fluke: How Chance and Chaos Shapes Our Existence, with Brian Klaas

Intelligence Squared

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2024 36:25


In a world of chaos and disaster where many of us already feel powerless, it can be humbling to consider the idea of chance and fate having a big hand in all of our destinies, all of the time. But is it all just random? Someone who knows more about chaos and disaster than most is Dr Brian Klaas, political scientist at UCL and a contributing writer at The Atlantic. His latest book is Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters. In it he explores how events of historic significance have been shaped from the smaller seemingly chance occurrences found within our highly interconnected society. Klaas's previous books have investigated despots and rigged elections with his research often focusing on democracy, authoritarianism, Trumpism, the nature of power, political violence and US foreign policy. He is also host of the award-winning podcast, Power Corrupts. Joining Klaas in conversation for this episode is Poppy Damon, the journalist and podcast producer based in New York City, whose most recent project – Agatha Christie and the Dandelion Poisoner – is available now on Audible. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all of our longer form interviews and Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events - Our member-only newsletter The Monthly Read, sent straight to your inbox ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series ... Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content, early access and much more ... Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trend Following with Michael Covel
Ep. 1264: Brian Klaas Interview with Michael Covel on Trend Following Radio

Trend Following with Michael Covel

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2024 54:11


My guest today is Brian Klaas, an expert on democracy, authoritarianism, US foreign policy, American politics more generally, political violence, and elections. He is a political scientist, contributing writer for The Atlantic, and an associate professor in Global Politics at University College London. Klaas has advised governments, US political campaigns, NATO, the European Union, multi-billion dollar investors, international NGOs, and international politicians. The topic is his book Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters. In this episode of Trend Following Radio we discuss: Chaos and order in shaping life outcomes Deterministic models in economics and forecasting Decision-making Acknowledging radical uncertainty Influence of humor in political decisions Unpredictable nature of political outcomes Evolutionary theory's relevance to human choices Long-term trends vs random events in shaping politics Jump in! --- I'm MICHAEL COVEL, the host of TREND FOLLOWING RADIO, and I'm proud to have delivered 10+ million podcast listens since 2012. Investments, economics, psychology, politics, decision-making, human behavior, entrepreneurship and trend following are all passionately explored and debated on my show. To start? I'd like to give you a great piece of advice you can use in your life and trading journey… cut your losses! You will find much more about that philosophy here: https://www.trendfollowing.com/trend/ You can watch a free video here: https://www.trendfollowing.com/video/ Can't get enough of this episode? You can choose from my thousand plus episodes here: https://www.trendfollowing.com/podcast My social media platforms: Twitter: @covel Facebook: @trendfollowing LinkedIn: @covel Instagram: @mikecovel Hope you enjoy my never-ending podcast conversation!

1A
Brian Klaas On Chance, Chaos, And Why Everything We Do Matters

1A

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2024 28:40


Have you ever wondered what would change if you could rewind your life and redo one small moment? Brian Klaas, a professor of Global Politics at University College London, explores this theme in a new book called "Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters." He argues that tiny, chance moments can change our individual lives, maybe even the course of history on a global scale. Klaas offers several examples of big events that could have gone down very differently had one small thing been slightly altered.The 1997 Zambian coup attempt in Southern Africa was prevented – almost literally, by a thread. The U.S. bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki and killed hundreds of thousands of people in 1945. Kyoto, originally considered for targetting, was spared because a U.S. official had vacationed there with his wife 19 years earlier and asked President Harry Truman to spare it.Klaas joins us to discuss why social scientists, and all of us, could benefit from acknowledging the world is chaotic and uncertain, and why in an interconnected world, everything we do matters.Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Connect with us. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The ONE Thing
439. The Phenomenon of Fluke – Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters

The ONE Thing

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 46:49 Transcription Available


Brian Klaas, a distinguished political scientist and author, brings to light the profound impact of chance and unpredictability in our lives. With a rich background that spans academia to journalism, Klaas's insights into the dynamics of chaos and order challenge our perceptions of control and destiny. His latest work, "Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters," delves deep into the essence of unpredictability, offering a fresh perspective on the forces shaping our world.Klaas's personal journey, marked by a blend of calculated decisions and unforeseen events, serves as a testament to the power of embracing uncertainty. His narratives, rich with historical anecdotes and personal experiences, reveal the hidden threads of chance that weave through the fabric of our existence. These stories not only entertain but also enlighten, urging us to reconsider the role of randomness in our daily lives.Drawing from Klaas's wisdom, one actionable piece of advice emerges: the importance of adaptability. In a world where the only constant is change, cultivating an ability to navigate the unknown becomes our greatest asset. Klaas encourages us to experiment, adapt, and remain open to the myriad possibilities that chance encounters may bring. By doing so, we not only enhance our resilience but also open doors to new opportunities and experiences that can lead to unexpected joy and fulfillment.To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.We talk about:How small, seemingly insignificant actions can lead to major impacts.The significant effects of random events in political landscapes and the careers of leaders.Challenging the meritocracy narrative by acknowledging the profound role of luck in personal and professional successes.Strategies for navigating life's uncertainties, emphasizing adaptability, risk assessment, and the acceptance of randomness.Why recognizing the unpredictability of life is incredibly liberatingLinks & Tools from This Episode:Learn more at brianpklaas.comRead: FlukeConnect with Brian on LinkedInSubscribe to Brian's newsletter: The Garden of Forking PathsFree ResourcesWant to be a guest or share feedback? Email podcast@the1thing.comProduced by NOVA MediaMentioned in this episode:Green ChefGo to greenchef.com/60onepod and use code 60onepod to get 60% off, plus 20% off your next two months. Green Chef

Something You Should Know
How Everything Affects Everything Else & Is Big Tech Out of Control?

Something You Should Know

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2024 47:43 Very Popular


Human touch can certainly feel good, but does it actually have lasting biological effects? This episode begins with a look at how the body responds to deliberate touch like massage as well as more casual and supportive touch between friends and family. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/everyone-top/202108/the-vital-importance-human-touch It can be mind boggling to think how any one thing can have a huge impact on your life. For example, if you stayed in bed 2 minutes longer today or had an egg instead of cereal for breakfast, your entire day might have been completely different. Of course, there is no way to tell if it would've been better or worse or how much different. Still, the fact that everything can influence everything else is something you can use in your own life strategy to improve the outcome of so many things. This is according to Dr. Brian Klaas, Associate Professor in Global Politics at University College in London, a contributing writer for The Atlantic and author of the book Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters, (https://amzn.to/3SrRj31). Listen to our conversation and you'll realize how fluke-y your life is, and that just may alter how you see your future.  When you hear the term “Big Tech,” you likely think of Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon and other large tech companies that seem to wield a lot of power and control over our lives. There is surprisingly little government regulation of the big tech organizations and that has a lot of people concerned. One of those people is Tom Wheeler. Tom was the Chairman of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) during the Obama administration. He is now a venture capitalist and author whose latest book is called Techlash: Who Makes the Rules in the Digital Gilded Age? (https://amzn.to/47OunPU). Could eating fast food cause respiratory allergies? Listen as I reveal some interesting research that links children who eat junk food and things like asthma, eczema and other allergic conditions. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3005803 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! NerdWallet lets you compare top travel credit cards side-by-side to maximize your spending! Compare and find smarter credit cards, savings accounts, and more today at https://NerdWallet.com Indeed is offering SYSK listeners a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Popcast With Knox and Jamie
541: February Best Watches and Reads, TV Spinoff Ideas, and The Word 'Lover'

The Popcast With Knox and Jamie

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2024 64:43 Very Popular


In this episode, we play cupid for our picks for February, advising you on the crush-worthy content worth flirting with (smooch), what you'll want to give your last name to (marry), and what you should steer clear of like a shadow-seeing groundhog (kill).Relevant links: Our full show notes are at knoxandjamie.com/541Today is the last day to get our Princess Collection for our annual Patreon subscribers! Own them forever via knoxandjamie.com/annualSmooches: book- Sex, Lies, & Sensibility by Nikki Payne | book- NIghtwatching by Tracy Sierra | movie- Drive-Away Dolls | album- What Now by Brittany Howard | tv- The Traitors | tv- Survivor Marries: tv- Shogun | tv- Mr. & Mrs. Smith | book- Fluke by Brian Klaas | tv- Lisa Frankenstein (see also: Diablo Cody's IMDb)Kills: tv- The Walking Dead: The Ones Who LiveReminder: Our Patreon supporters can get full access to this week's The More You Know news segment. This week we discussed Elle King, eating meals in the shower, and more. Become a partner.Fun bonus: We were on the Currently Reading podcastGreen lights:Jamie: series- The Artful Dodger, book- Everyone On This Train Is a Suspect by by Benjamin StevensonKnox: movie- American FictionEpisode sponsors: FACTOR: Get 50% off your first box and 2 free wellness shots at factormeals.com/popcastpod50 and use code popcastpod50. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast
E. Jean Carroll, Roberta Kaplan, Al Franken & Brian Klass

Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2024 54:41 Transcription Available


E. Jean Carroll and Roberta Kaplan discuss their significant victory over President Trump and what's next in their quest for justice. The Al Frank Show's Al Franken analyzes the posturing among his former colleagues regarding immigration reform. Brian Klaas introduces his new book, 'Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bulwark Podcast
Brian Klaas: Why Everything We Do Matters

The Bulwark Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2024 44:10


The world feels like it's falling apart, and black swan events are on the rise. Is this the result of our unquenchable thirst for optimization and efficiency—as we try to tame an untameable world? Brian Klaas joins Charlie Sykes to discuss his new book, "Fluke." show notes: Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters

Science Salon
One Couple's Vacation Caused 100,000 People to Die

Science Salon

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2024 114:28


If you could rewind your life to the very beginning and then press play, would everything turn out the same? Or could making an accidental phone call or missing an exit off the highway change not just your life, but history itself? How did one couple's vacation cause 100,000 people to die? Brian Klaas explores how our world really works, driven by strange interactions and apparently random events. Drawing on social science, chaos theory, history, evolutionary biology, and philosophy, he provides a fresh look at why things happen. Brian Klaas is a professor of global politics at University College London. He is a regular contributor for The Washington Post and The Atlantic, host of the award-winning Power Corrupts podcast. His new book is Fluke: Chance, Chaos and Why Everything We Do Matters. You can find him at BrianPKlaas.com and on Twitter @brianklaas.

The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell
Lawrence: Trump becomes first former President to testify as a defendant in his own trial

The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 42:35 Very Popular


Tonight on The Last Word: Donald Trump testifies in the E. Jean Carroll defamation suit. Also, the Biden-Harris campaign focuses on battleground Wisconsin. Plus, Brian Klaas says Trump benefits from “the banality of crazy.” And a new film reimagines Isabel Wilkerson's book, “Caste.” Andrew Weissmann, Faith Gay, Ben Wikler, and Ava DuVernay also join Lawrence O'Donnell.

Plain English with Derek Thompson
Why Did Stanley Water Bottles Suddenly Become a Cultural Phenomenon?

Plain English with Derek Thompson

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 38:16 Very Popular


It's just a steel tumbler with a straw and side handle. But the Stanley cup is a social media phenomenon and an incredible business success story. How did this thing come out of nowhere? What lessons can we learn about its success? And, more broadly, what do cultural phenomena like this say about marketing trends, social media tastes, and the role of randomness in our life and economy? Joining the show are Amanda Mull, staff writer at The Atlantic, and Brian Klaas, author of the new book ‘Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters.' If you have questions, observations, or ideas for future episodes, email us at PlainEnglish@Spotify.com. Host: Derek Thompson Guests: Amanda Mull & Brian Klaas Producer: Devon Baroldi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Brian Lehrer Show
Chaos Theory Explains It

The Brian Lehrer Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 30:05


Brian Klaas, social scientist, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, professor of global politics at University College London and the author of Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters (Scribner, 2023), connects chaos theory to politics and all aspects of our lives.

The Gist
Fluke Happens

The Gist

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 42:31


Brian Klaas, political scientist and author of Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters, talks about flawed thinking and the flaws of social science. Plus, a bird of prey on your wedding day. And the LA Times misinformation "expert" who got it horribly wrong. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist Subscribe: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Stacking Benjamins Show
Every Decision You Make Matters - with Brian Klaas (SB1468)

The Stacking Benjamins Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 70:33 Very Popular


Brian Klaas has an interesting backstory...to say the least. He owes his existence to a woman who murdered her family. Because she did it--and took her own life, he was born. This complete fluke is the catalyst behind Brian asserting that your decisions matter more than you could possibly think. While planning is important, Brian emphasizes that it's even more important how you respond to all of the flukes in your life. We'll talk about the weird falling of dominos and how we're all more interconnected than we'd like to believe (and more) with Brian. Before that we take on a difficult headline; a HUGE number of advisors say they're going to retire in the next ten years. What do you do if your advisor says they're going to retire before you do? How do you change advisors...and how do you even broach the topic of retirement with your advisor? We talk all things retirement and THEIR retirement on today's show. Plus, we're continuing the first round of our Great Math Joke Off. Four more Stackers see their jokes go head-to-head for a chance to win a couple of books AND possibly more if they continue winning. We also share trivia from Doug and take a call from a Stacker who'd Better Call Saul....Sehy and OG. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/everything-you-do-matters-brian-klaas-1468 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nobody Told Me!
Brian Klaas: ...that the purpose of life is not money and status

Nobody Told Me!

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 27:11


Have you ever thought about how your life is constantly being swayed by small, seemingly insignificant, decisions?  Our guest is social scientist Brian Klaas who's done extensive research into how seemingly inconsequential actions have life-changing consequences. Brian is a professor of global politics at University College London and the author of the new book,  "Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters".  His website is brianpklaas.com.

KERA's Think
Who controls your destiny? (It's not you)

KERA's Think

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 46:49


Each of us is the product of a long string of decisions and even chance that occurred long before we were even born – a thought that can boggle the mind. Brian Klaas is professor of global politics at University College London and host of the Power Corrupts podcast. He joins host Krys Boyd to discuss the ways our actions and even inactions affect not just our lives, but history, and how we find ways to knit all this chaos into neat versions of reality. His book is “Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters.”

EconTalk
If Life Is Random, Is It Meaningless? (with Brian Klaas)

EconTalk

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2024 60:24 Very Popular


How did a husband-and-wife vacation end up saving a city from the atomic bomb while destroying another? And how did a century-old murder of one family bring another into existence? Easily, explains political scientist Brian Klaas of University College London, who points out that history is replete with chance events that profoundly shaped both society and individual lives. Listen as Klaas discusses his book Fluke with EconTalk's Russ Roberts. Klaas argues that recognizing the randomness of everyday life and history can lead to a newfound appreciation for the meaning of every decision, and to a focus on joyful experimentation instead of relentless optimization.

The Best of Coast to Coast AM
Chance - Best of Coast to Coast AM - 1/16/24

The Best of Coast to Coast AM

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2024 16:22 Transcription Available Very Popular


George Noory and author Brian Klaas explore the impact of random events and chance in our lives, how seemingly insignificant decisions can have major ramifications, and if we actually have free will to lead our own lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.