#1029 - Malcolm Gladwell - How to Convince the World of Bulls**t & Evil
Modern Wisdom
2025/12/06
#1029 - Malcolm Gladwell - How to Convince the World of Bulls**t & Evil
#1029 - Malcolm Gladwell - How to Convince the World of Bulls**t & Evil

Modern Wisdom
2025/12/06
In this compelling conversation, Malcolm Gladwell explores how societal patterns—like epidemics of disease, ideas, and behaviors—follow surprisingly similar paths of transmission. He draws on decades of research to unpack the hidden mechanics behind cultural shifts, examining why certain individuals wield outsized influence and how small triggers can spark large-scale transformations across social systems.
The discussion reveals that both biological and memetic contagions spread through asymmetrical networks, where a few 'super-spreaders'—whether people or institutions—drive widespread change. From the opioid crisis fueled by a minority of prescribers to the viral reach of figures like Taylor Swift, disproportionate influence shapes outcomes. The same dynamics appear in debates around trans athletes and college sports admissions, where emotional stories outweigh data. Gladwell challenges assumptions about parenting, intelligence, and fairness, showing how narratives override facts and how class privilege persists under the guise of merit in elite sports. The 'tipping point' concept remains vital—not just for understanding change, but for recognizing when and how we might intervene before harmful epidemics take hold. Ultimately, the conversation urges greater awareness of the invisible forces shaping society’s most heated conflicts and enduring inequalities.
03:32
03:32
Lethal injection, long seen as humane, may cause extreme pain and suffering.
16:08
16:08
Social influence is asymmetrical, with some individuals having outsized impact on idea spread.
18:47
18:47
A small group of super spreaders drives the majority of influence in idea and disease transmission.
28:35
28:35
Purdue Pharma targeted only 2,000 doctors to drive the OxyContin epidemic.
43:26
43:26
The 'Parental Attribution Error' means people blame parents for their flaws but take credit for their strengths
48:36
48:36
Stories elicit emotion and defy expectations, making them more effective than facts in communicating ideas.
58:29
58:29
The trans athlete issue is a small, hypothetical problem that becomes political ammunition.
1:07:45
1:07:45
Track and field is a sport where income and class don't provide a head start