How Intelligence Works, with David Robson

In Episode Eight of the Parlia Podcast, Turi speaks to science writer David Robson, to discuss the different types of intelligence, how they shape us, our perspectives, and our social relationships.

S1 E8: How Intelligence Works

“Rationality is trying to find the truth by weighing up the evidence. People with high intelligence alone don’t do that so you need something else to encourage you to use your intelligence. Curiosity… The more curious someone is, the more likely they are to escape motivated reasoning”

Turi speaks to science writer and author of The Intelligence Trap David Robson about what intelligence is, why it’s different to rationality, and what its value is in our everyday lives.

Together, they discuss:

  • What is intelligence?
  • How does it create inequality?
  • Do IQ tests favour the rich?
  • Is intelligence a form of propaganda?
  • What is the growth mindset?
  • Where do rationality and morality intersect
  • And why do very clever people make incredibly stupid decisions?


David Robson

David Robson is a science writer who specialises in the extremes of the human brain, body and behaviour. His latest book is The Intelligence Trap, which examines the reasons intelligent and educated people make stupid mistakes. He previously worked on the staff at New Scientist and BBC Future.


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This page was last edited on Thursday, 25 Mar 2021 at 15:35 UTC

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