If Life Is Random, Is It Meaningless? (with Brian Klaas) 1/22/24

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.
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[@bobbijones9334]

On the last chapter of Fluke. Very thought provoking and it allows one to embrace acceptance and celebrate the mystery. We don't need to know everything. When I was 23, on an impulse, I quit my job, bought a backpack and a ticket to Europe (I am American) knowing little to nothing about Europe, never having even used public transport, knowing only a smattering of French and Spanish and set off on my own. I had no idea of how I would proceed, where I would go, how I would survive, etc. Those were the happiest days of my life: not knowing where life would lead me or where I might follow. Nor did I care. There was a lesson in that.

[@benjaminhamrick]

Great listen. The conversation pairs well with concepts for Russ's book Wild Problems. Thank you for this.

[@sherrydionisio4306]

Wonderful conversation gentlemen. I am a huge fan of Robert Sapolsky, Bernardo Kastrup and now, very interested in hearing more from Brian Klaas. Thanks again for another thoughtful and thought provoking podcast, Russ.

[@FlamingBasketballClub]

Please do a full podcast episode on both 2023 African Cup of Nations & 2023 AFC Asian Cup later this year.

[@RiCsoundbox]

There seem to be some models that need to be carefully reconsidered. Models that have proven to be very wrong... Models that predict a world catastrophe and much more.

[@juancastromarquez]

Nice guy but it should be prohibited for anyone to write books about the meaning of life at 37 years old.

[@aleksandergorecki7534]

Do you even watch this?

[@lonniearnett3983]

Who said we were supposed to be happy? Noy any deep philosopher.

[@simonlodato6375]

Not very convincing