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The Pattern Behind Self-Deception

TED-Ed via YouTube

Overview

Explore the psychological underpinnings of human belief in strange phenomena in this thought-provoking TED-Ed talk. Delve into Michael Shermer's analysis of how two fundamental survival skills hardwired into our brains can lead to self-deception and belief in unusual concepts. Discover the connections between our cognitive processes and beliefs in phenomena such as alien abductions and dowsing rods. Gain insights into the workings of the human mind, including topics like schizophrenia and the concept of agent detection. Learn how our innate tendencies can sometimes lead us astray and understand the pattern behind self-deception in this engaging 19-minute presentation.

Syllabus

Intro
Belief
Lack of control
Schizophrenia
Agent issaht

Taught by

TED-Ed

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