1518 - Scott Atran: Extremism & How to Defend Democracy

On today’s show anthropologist Scott Atran joins us to discuss his work on extremism and what can be done to restore open values. How Atran got his start in anthropology thanks to Margaret Mead. Engaging with power and the critique of power. The social networks of ideological fundamentalist groups like terrorists and Republicans. How "root cause" interpretations became popular for describing extremism. How "devoted actors" behave differently than "rational actors." Scott's reaction to UBI talk at Davos.

 

On the Fun Half: Trump says disastrous Muslim travel ban "working out nicely," ACLU Executive Director Anthony Romero begs to differ. Protests take shape throughout the country on the second consecutive week of Trump's presidency. Steve Bannon thinks too many CEOs in Silicon Valley are not white. John McCain concerned Bannon is taking over NSC.

 

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