Gad Saad
Gad Saad is a Lebanese-Canadian marketing professor at the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University. He is known for applying evolutionary psychology to marketing and consumer behaviour. He also writes a blog for Psychology Today and hosts a YouTube channel titled "The Saad Truth". Saad has been a professor of marketing at Concordia University since 1994. As of 2020, he holds the Concordia University Research Chair in Evolutionary Behavioural Sciences and Darwinian Consumption.One line of research that Saad has been exploring is how hormones affect consumers and the decisions they make. Examples of this research include how showy products affect testosterone levels, how testosterone levels affect various forms of risk-taking, and how hormones in the menstrual cycle affect buying decisions. Another line of research has involved gift giving, including how men and women differ in why they give.
Books Mentioned in this Podcast with Jordan Peterson & Gad Saad:
Book Title: The Parasitic Mind – How Infections Are Killing Common Sense
Author: Gad Saad
Book Title: The Consuming Instinct – What Juicy Burgers, Ferraris, Pornography, and Gift Giving Reveal About Human Nature
Author: Gad Saad
Book Title: The Evolutionary Bases of Consumption
Author: Gad Saad
Book Title: Evolutionary Psychology in the Business Sciences
Author: Gad Saad
Book Title: Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life
Author: Jordan B. Peterson
Book Title: The Neuropsychology Of Anxiety
Author: Jeffrey A. Gray and Neil McNaughton
Book Title: The Selfish Gene
Author: Richard Dawkins
Book Title: Maps Of Meaning – The Architecture Of Beliefs
Author: Jordan B. Peterson
Book Title: Consilience – The Unity of Knowledge
Author: Edward O. Wilson
Summary of The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast #154 - Gad Saad
Introduction In this episode of The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast, Jordan Peterson interviews Gad Saad, an evolutionary behavioral scientist and author. They discuss a wide range of topics, including the importance of free speech, the challenges of academic censorship, and the dangers of political correctness.
The Importance of Free Speech
Saad and Peterson both agree that free speech is an essential part of a healthy society. Saad argues that free speech is necessary for the pursuit of truth, and that the suppression of free speech can lead to dangerous ideologies and bad policies. Peterson adds that free speech is also important for personal growth, as it allows us to learn from our mistakes and engage in meaningful dialogue with others.
The Dangers of Censorship
The discussion then turns to the dangers of censorship, particularly in the academic world. Saad argues that academic censorship is becoming increasingly prevalent, and that it can stifle creativity and innovation. He also points out that censorship often comes from a small group of activists who claim to speak for a larger group, but who do not necessarily represent the majority of people.
The Problem with Political Correctness
Saad and Peterson also discuss the dangers of political correctness. Saad argues that political correctness can be a form of censorship, and that it can limit our ability to have honest conversations about important issues. He also points out that political correctness often leads to the demonization of people who hold different views, which can be counterproductive and divisive.
The Role of Evolution in Human Behavior
The conversation then turns to the role of evolution in human behavior. Saad argues that evolutionary psychology can help us understand why we behave the way we do, and that it can also help us understand the cultural differences between different groups of people. Peterson agrees, saying that understanding our evolutionary history can help us make sense of the world around us and make better decisions.
The Problem with Group Identity Politics
The discussion then turns to the problem with group identity politics. Saad argues that group identity politics can be dangerous, as it can lead to a focus on group identity rather than individual merit. He also points out that group identity politics often leads to a lack of nuance in discussions about important issues, which can be counterproductive.
The Importance of Individual Responsibility
Saad and Peterson both emphasize the importance of individual responsibility. Saad argues that individual responsibility is necessary for personal growth and success, and that it is also necessary for a healthy society. Peterson agrees, saying that individual responsibility is the key to living a meaningful life and making a positive impact on the world.
The Future of Society
The conversation ends with a discussion of the future of society. Saad argues that we need to find a way to balance the pursuit of individual rights with the needs of society as a whole. He also points out that we need to find a way to move beyond group identity politics and focus on individual merit. Peterson agrees, saying that we need to find a way to maintain the values that have served us well in the past while adapting to the changing world around us.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast #154 with Gad Saad is a fascinating conversation that touches on a wide range of topics, from the importance of free speech to the dangers of political correctness. Saad and Peterson both emphasize the importance of individual responsibility, and the need to find a way to balance individual rights with the needs of society. Overall, this podcast is an insightful and thought-provoking discussion that is well worth listening to.