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"YOUR WELCOME" with Michael Malice #278: SCOTT ADAMS
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Michael Malice (“YOUR WELCOME”) invites famed author, cartoonist, and creator of Dilbert, Scott Adams, onto the show to talk about how predictable human beings can be, how context is often ignored by cancel culture, and why his new book is a testament that you can recover from nearly anything, if you have the right frame of thinking. SCOTT ADAMS Be sure to grab a copy of Scott’s brand-new book, Reframe Your Brain: The User Interface for Happiness and Success here: https://twitter.com/ScottAdamsSays https://instagram.com/scottadams925/ https://scottadams.locals.com MICHAEL MALICE Order THE WHITE PILL: http://whitepillbook.com/ Order THE ANARCHIST HANDBOOK: https://www.amzn.com/B095DVF8FJ Order THE NEW RIGHT: https://amzn.to/2IFFCCu Order DEAR READER: https://t.co/vZfTVkK6qf?amp=1 https://twitter.com/michaelmalice https://instagram.com/michaelmalice https://malice.locals.com https://youtube.com/michaelmaliceofficial Intro song: "Out of Reach" by Legendary House Cats https://thelegendaryhousecats.bandcamp.com/ This week's sponsors: Beam Dream Powder – Better Sleep Never Tasted Better: https://shopbeam.com/MALICE, promo code: MALICE (40% off) Entera SkinCare – Scientifically Advanced Products, Real Results: https://enteraskincare.com, promo code: WELCOME (10% off) Fast Growing Trees – The Plant Experts: https://fastgrowingtrees.com/WELCOME (15% off) Miracle Made Sheets – Self-Cleaning Sheets: https://trymiracle.com/MALICE (Free Towel Set + over 40% off) Qualia – Late 20s or Older? Combat negative aging symptoms with Qualia Senolytic: https://Qualialife.com/malice (up to 50% off Qualia Senolytic + 15% off first purchase) Patriot Gold Group – No Fee IRA: Call 888-505-9845 or visit https://malicegold.com (Free investor guide)
Segments Timeline
Welcome Back, Scott Adams!
Michael Malice introduces Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert, as a returning guest. They discuss Scott's new book, 'Reframe Your Brain: The User Interface for Happiness and Success,' and touch on his experiences with cancel culture. This segment sets the stage for a deep dive into the themes of communication and persuasion.
"the white pill is available now at white pill book.com this episode is brought to you by Patriot [Music] gold [Music] good afternoon Michael malice here let that be your welcome for the next hour we h..."
The Power of Framing in Communication
Scott Adams elaborates on the concept of framing in communication, referencing Neil Strauss's book 'The Game.' He explains how framing can influence interpersonal communication and the importance of frame control in debates. This segment highlights the nuances of how language shapes our interactions and perceptions.
"we have with us a very special returning guest the man who is the second guest on this show episode two you go way back Scott Adams he is the creator of Dilbert uh his new book which I am really excit..."
Understanding Human Irrationality
Scott shares insights from his background as a trained hypnotist, discussing how people often rationalize their actions after the fact. He emphasizes that what we perceive as intelligence is often just a combination of familiar phrases and ideas. This segment explores the irrational nature of human behavior and its implications for communication.
"communicating with others you talk about this a lot um there was someone named Neil Strauss who was discovered by the same editor I was Jeremy Ruby Strauss and not only did he give him his first co-au..."
Reframing for Success
In this segment, Scott introduces the concept of 'reframes'—simple sentences that help individuals view familiar situations in new, more effective ways. He discusses how reframing can lead to greater happiness and success, illustrating this with practical examples. This segment is crucial for understanding how to apply reframing in everyday life.
"what you talk about in it so for the benefit of your audience I'm a trained hypnotist I learned hypnosis in my 20s and that changes forever how you see everything so so hypnotists don't see rational p..."
The Role of Words in Shaping Intelligence
Scott explains how the patterns of words we hear shape our intelligence and decision-making. He draws parallels between human cognition and AI, suggesting that both rely on learned patterns. This segment delves into the implications of language on our understanding of intelligence and decision-making processes.
"became a thing and the world was shocked that you could create this thing that was like intelligence and of nothing but the patterns of words that people have spoken before that you know that was like..."
The Illusion of Rationality in Arguments
Scott discusses the futility of engaging in arguments on social media, suggesting that many people are not truly rational but rather repeat phrases they've heard. He highlights the lack of foundational thinking in political discussions and how this affects communication. This segment is essential for understanding the dynamics of online discourse.
"yeah I often tell people that overwhelmingly engaging in arguments on social media is a waste of time because the person isn't necessarily crazy or stupid but they're mindless and you're effectively a..."
Creating Meaning in a Meaningless World
Scott reflects on the philosophy of Albert Camus, emphasizing the opportunity in life's inherent meaninglessness. He contrasts two types of people who encounter a blank canvas, illustrating how perspective can shape our experiences. This segment encourages viewers to adopt a proactive approach to creating meaning in their lives.
"kamu and he is regarded as an existentialist he didn't not regard himself as extensionist he regard himself as an absurdist and he said that life is basically meaningless but he didn't regard this as ..."
Moral Rationalizations and Decision-Making
Scott and Michael discuss Jonathan Haidt's work on moral decision-making, highlighting how people often struggle to articulate the reasons behind their moral choices. This segment explores the disconnect between visceral reactions and rational justifications, shedding light on human behavior and ethics.
"nice to me I like them you know I'm not I'm not much interested in what they did with somebody else or that you know when I wasn't in the room people are nice to me I tend to like them it's really tha..."
Disarming Trolls with Sympathy
Scott shares his strategy for dealing with online trolls by reframing the interaction to one of sympathy rather than confrontation. He explains how this approach disarms aggressive behavior and fosters a more constructive dialogue. This segment provides practical advice for managing online interactions.
"once you once you get that frame on life all of the things that drive you crazy just look different it it becomes amusing at a point here here's one I've been using a lot you know obviously I get trol..."
The Power of Reframing in High-Stress Situations
Scott recounts a personal story of how he used reframing techniques to navigate a potentially dangerous encounter with a robber. He illustrates the effectiveness of maintaining a conversational frame in high-stress situations. This segment emphasizes the practical applications of reframing in everyday life.
"successfully so many times it's it's funny especially in the morning I say morning drinking you know just two words with a question mark and you would be amazed how many people do not respond again be..."
The Importance of Sleep for Mental Clarity
Scott transitions to discussing the significance of sleep for mental health and productivity. He introduces Beam's Dream Powder as a solution for better sleep, emphasizing its benefits. This segment highlights the connection between sleep quality and cognitive function.
"reframe is now I wouldn't I wouldn't use it on somebody who wasn't actually drunk like he was I mean it works better with somebody who's inebriated but uh it's pretty powerful stuff folks you know sle..."
Innovative Skincare: The Entera Story
Adams transitions to discussing Entera Skincare, sharing the founder's journey from biochemical engineering to creating effective skincare products. He highlights the unique formulations that address common skin issues faced by athletes and active individuals. This segment underscores the importance of innovation in skincare and the personal stories behind product development.
"sleep which we all need to get us through the day frankly the Show puts most people to sleep but for the rest of you there's beam folks I want to talk to you about intera skincare because I really lik..."
Creativity and the Burden of Consistency
Scott Adams reflects on the challenges of maintaining creativity over decades as a cartoonist. He draws parallels to the myth of Sisyphus, discussing the pressures of producing daily content while navigating the expectations of a diverse audience. This segment delves into the emotional toll of creative work and the pursuit of artistic freedom.
"skincare.com n t r sounds pretty good let's get back to the show speaking of kamu uh one of his major essays is called the myth of Copus and Legend of copi is he's condemned in hell to roll a rock up ..."
Freedom After Cancellation: A New Beginning
Adams shares his experience of being canceled and how it led to a newfound freedom in his work. He discusses the constraints of traditional media and how moving to a subscription model allowed him to express himself authentically. This segment highlights the liberating effects of breaking free from industry norms and the joy of creating without limitations.
"you've got your punchline I Got U the answer is for maybe the last 10 or 15 years absolutely hated my job because I had to write a comic that was um appropriate for the newspaper sensibility which goe..."
Understanding Audience Feedback
In this segment, Scott Adams explains how audience feedback shaped his comic strip, Dilbert. He emphasizes the importance of listening to readers and adapting content to meet their preferences. This discussion illustrates the dynamic relationship between creators and their audience, showcasing how feedback can drive innovation and success.
"that so so the you're you're right on it was it was torture I I often described it as if somebody told you your job for the rest your life was just to eat ice cream and you're like I love ice cream th..."
The Context of Controversy: Scott Adams on Cancel Culture
Scott Adams addresses the controversy surrounding his comments on race and the media's portrayal of public figures. He discusses the importance of context in understanding statements and how misinterpretations can lead to public backlash. This segment provides insight into the complexities of cancel culture and the challenges of navigating public discourse.
"think that that was smart uh so if for example you were you know Garfield kids and Cat lovers you know you're you're bringing in the kids if you run jump start it's a African-American Creator and so t..."
Reframing Race Relations
Scott Adams elaborates on his intention to provoke thought about race relations in America. He argues that the current narrative fosters division and suggests that reframing these discussions could lead to more productive outcomes. This segment explores the complexities of race and the impact of societal narratives on individual perceptions.
"launch point for the point the so what I said was if that were true and I I said if uh if that's true then it would make black people a hate group because it would mean that they have very terrible fe..."
The Oppressor vs. Oppressed Narrative
Adams critiques the prevailing narrative that categorizes individuals into oppressor and oppressed classes. He argues that this framework is detrimental and encourages division rather than unity. This segment highlights the need for a shift in perspective to foster better understanding and cooperation among different racial groups.
"designed to win yeah right you're designed to win so the point is that what I was saying had almost nothing to do with being black it had to do with the poisoning of the race relations by set of um a ..."
Self-Defense and Discrimination
In this thought-provoking segment, Adams discusses the concept of discrimination in the context of self-defense. He argues that while discrimination is generally viewed negatively, it can be a natural response in situations where personal safety is at stake. This perspective challenges conventional views on discrimination and highlights its complexities.
"some version of I was just minding my own business now you're telling me I owe you something for something that happened with dead people long ago now I do believe that systemic racism is real and I t..."
Navigating Safety and Bias
Scott Adams shares insights on how individuals make decisions based on perceived safety and bias. He presents scenarios that illustrate how societal patterns influence personal choices, particularly in potentially dangerous situations. This segment encourages listeners to reflect on their own biases and the implications of their decisions.
"the context of um work in the context of renting making loans social life who you marry who you hang out with who your friends are who's on your team so you know no there's there's no wiggle room ther..."
The Cancellation Experience
Adams recounts his personal experience with being canceled, detailing the rapid response from media and publishing entities. He reflects on the shock and disbelief of those involved in the cancellation process, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on individuals. This segment sheds light on the mechanics of cancel culture and its impact on personal and professional lives.
"to you even if you're wrong you know even even if it's biased that's the one place that no law is going to get to you and if there is a law you should ignore it because your self- protection doesn't d..."
The Role of DEI in Censorship
In this segment, Adams discusses the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives on media and publishing decisions. He argues that these programs often lead to censorship and a lack of diverse viewpoints. This discussion highlights the tension between promoting inclusivity and maintaining freedom of expression.
"and I got to tell you this is the kind of stuff that's big here in Austin and I'm really plugged into that community and I'm really excited to see what kind of stuff is coming down the pipe guys I lov..."
Understanding the CRT Phenomenon
Adams explores the popularity of Critical Race Theory (CRT) among certain demographics, particularly white women. He speculates on the motivations behind this trend and its implications for societal dynamics. This segment invites listeners to consider the complexities of identity and power in contemporary discussions about race.
"welcome and they've got a lot of cool stuff that you're not going to find at your local Big Box store let's get back to the show why do you think CRT is so popular and fetishized with white women who ..."
Misinterpretations and Consequences
Scott Adams addresses the misinterpretations of his statements regarding race and the immediate consequences he faced. He emphasizes that his comments were not rooted in prejudice but rather in a critique of societal narratives. This segment highlights the challenges of communication in a polarized environment.
"really know can you speak to what it is that people heard you saying and what were the immediate consequences to that and were you surprised by the reaction yeah I think they heard me say that I don't..."
The Shock of Cancellation
In this candid segment, Adams shares his feelings of shock and disappointment upon being canceled by his publisher and syndication company. He reflects on the rapidity of the cancellation process and the broader implications for freedom of speech. This discussion provides insight into the emotional impact of cancel culture.
"know the the timing was a little bit of surprise but uh when the Washington Post cancels that gives cover to everybody else yes exactly and by now they all have Dei departments so every Dei Department..."
The Cancellation Industry Revealed
Adams concludes by discussing the systemic nature of the cancellation industry and how it operates within media organizations. He highlights the role of DEI departments in perpetuating this cycle and the challenges faced by individuals who challenge prevailing narratives. This segment serves as a critical examination of the mechanisms behind cancel culture.
"got were from my agent and from my syndication company not not from any newspapers um so I didn't talk to the publisher directly the the AG the I I would describe both of those conversations as um not..."
The Lucky Cancellation
Scott Adams describes his fortunate position following his cancellation, highlighting how he regained rights to his work and found new opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of having a supportive platform and the unexpected benefits that arose from his situation.
"to the point where there probably was something like a Dei group in every newspaper I'm sure my publisher my publisher for sure oh for sure and and you know if your job is to look for that stuff you k..."
Navigating Independent Publishing
Adams talks about the process of self-publishing his book after being dropped by his publisher. He shares insights on the challenges of independent publishing and the support he received, ultimately leading to the successful release of his work.
"luckier I have the luckiest cancellation of anybody who ever been canceled because I was looking to retire and um I'd also built up my following on the locals platform so I had you know a little bit o..."
Concerns Over Perception
In this segment, Adams reflects on the potential repercussions of being perceived as a bigot after his cancellation. He compares his experience to that of Roseanne Barr, discussing the fear of losing friends and the reality of social isolation following public backlash.
"publishing um let's say process which is now fairly mature but what a pain in the ass like if Joshua had not walked me through it the whole way it I think I think I would have been stopped by it but u..."
The Fallout of Friendship
Scott Adams shares how his social circle drastically shrank after his cancellation, revealing that most of his friends distanced themselves. He discusses the emotional impact of this loss and the importance of recognizing true friendships in difficult times.
"Mo'Nique was just on her show you know defending her um did you have to deal with that repercussions from colleagues or friends who are now perceiving you as some sort of white supremacist isn't your ..."
The Radioactive Reputation
Adams explores the idea of being seen as 'radioactive' after his cancellation, where people avoid association due to fear of backlash. He emphasizes the importance of self-defense in social interactions and the right to protect oneself from perceived toxicity.
"95% but also because my last wife I'm divorced now but my last wife you know wasn't big on you know entertaining and parties so we we just lived a you know quiet little life and so so I got divorced y..."
Trump as a Master Communicator
Scott Adams discusses Donald Trump's communication style, particularly in relation to sensitive topics like abortion. He analyzes Trump's ability to navigate complex political landscapes and engage a broad audience, showcasing his strategic thinking.
"absolute right and you can have it one of the things that you spoke a lot about in the 2015 2016 campaign is what you call Trump like a master Communicator um is it fair to say that you uh perceive Jo..."
The Humor in Politics
In this segment, Adams reflects on the humor found in the current political landscape, particularly the dynamics between Trump and Biden. He shares his thoughts on the absurdity of political scenarios and how they can be entertaining despite their seriousness.
"that honestly this isn't good for the country but I want to ride it a little longer yeah it's so fun right now I know you understand I'm not sure I can explain this to everybody but if you have a cert..."
Imagining a Political Movie
Adams creatively imagines a political movie plot involving Trump and Biden, discussing potential twists and turns that could make for an entertaining narrative. He highlights the absurdity of political events and the potential for humor in unexpected scenarios.
"yeah the other one that that uh I just was laughing all morning about is there's some studies that looked at the causality the direction of causality between warming and CO2 and of course the theory i..."
The Importance of Clean Bedding
In a lighter moment, the conversation shifts to the benefits of Miracle Made sheets, emphasizing hygiene and comfort. The discussion highlights the importance of maintaining cleanliness in personal items and the innovative features of the product.
"movie hey folks did you know that traditional bed sheets can Harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat and it can lead to acne allergies stuffy noses and is gross Miracle maid offers a whole line of sel..."
The US Debt Crisis
Adams discusses the implications of the US debt crisis, touching on economic concerns and the potential impact on gold and silver investments. He emphasizes the importance of being proactive in financial planning amid uncertainty.
"this episode folks the US debt crisis could ignite a long-term rally in Gold since March 2020 the US has added 8 trillion dollar in debt and gold is up 50% now with the FED raising rates the interest ..."
Trump's Communication Strategy
Scott Adams elaborates on Trump's communication strategy, particularly regarding sensitive issues like abortion. He analyzes Trump's approach to negotiation and how it reflects his broader political strategy, showcasing his ability to engage with diverse audiences.
"inflation today let's get back to the show what do you foresee uh I mean we're very early out it's September obviously 2023 the elections a year away um do do do you still uh perceive Trump as a maste..."
Optimism Amidst Challenges
In this segment, Scott Adams shares his perspective on America's ability to tackle slow-moving disasters, such as climate change and economic crises. He argues that the U.S. has a proven track record of addressing significant challenges when they are anticipated, showcasing a belief in American ingenuity and resilience. Adams contrasts this with the difficulties of responding to sudden crises, like pandemics, and expresses confidence in the nation's problem-solving capabilities.
"you've influenced me personally a lot on one specific issue which is I'm a big advocate of national divorce and a lot of times people come at me on Twitter and they be like this is ridiculous it's nev..."
The Journey Through Decades
Scott Adams reflects on the evolution of his life through different decades, sharing insights on personal growth and the challenges faced at various stages. He discusses how his 20s were marked by struggles and skill-building, while his 30s brought career success with the launch of Dilbert. This segment provides a candid look at aging, health, and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook as one navigates life's transitions.
"good now we're going to population is going to grow well well you know we figured it out uh year 2000 bug is going to make all the computers well they didn't nuclear war well we figured out a way not ..."
The Solitary Life of Cartoonists
Scott Adams delves into the solitary nature of being a cartoonist, discussing the introverted tendencies of many in the profession. He shares anecdotes about interactions with other cartoonists, including Jim Davis, and the challenges of networking in a field that often feels isolating. This segment highlights the unique dynamics of the cartooning community and the balance between creativity and business acumen.
"we'll probably develop you know all kinds of Technologies every day there's a story about a new breakthrough they'll change the battery lives you know by 50% you know some number of those will actuall..."
Navigating Social Media and Censorship
In this segment, Scott Adams discusses the evolving landscape of social media, particularly under Elon Musk's leadership of Twitter. He highlights the positive changes, such as monetization and community engagement, while also addressing the challenges of censorship and the suppression of information. Adams emphasizes the importance of context in news reporting and the role of social media in providing a platform for diverse voices.
"like it never happen I I didn't feel shame I didn't feel regret I didn't feel anger I just thought whoa new situation I just got respawned into a new video game but but what do I have to work with and..."
The Designated Liars of Media
Scott Adams critiques the media landscape, identifying what he calls 'designated liars'—individuals who consistently propagate misinformation. He discusses the implications of recognizing these figures and how it affects public perception of news. This segment underscores the importance of critical thinking and awareness in navigating modern media narratives.
"know how many people I'm gonna watch die thousands yeah like how many people do you know like you probably know a thousand people right by name and uh you know I'm gonna I live most of them so that th..."
The Era of Information Suppression
Scott Adams discusses the alarming trend of information suppression in media, contrasting the genuine dissemination of news with intentional narrative control. He highlights the growing awareness of how watchdog groups and fact-checkers may not be as impartial as they claim, revealing a landscape where the public can now see the mechanisms behind media narratives.
"and you can name all these other you know video or print there's nowhere else you can even get a taste for the full context of a story except on X and that you have to work a you know you might have t..."
Identifying Designated Liars
In this segment, Adams introduces the concept of 'designated liars' in politics and media, explaining how certain figures are consistently used to propagate false narratives. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these individuals to better understand the political landscape and the motivations behind their statements.
"yeah yeah that I think we're going to look back at this era and just Jaws will drop like it it will look just crazy that the the amount of uh suppression but but I think now the the biggest change I'm..."
The ADL Controversy
Scott Adams shares his personal experience with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), recounting how he was labeled a Holocaust denier by its head, Jonathan Greenblatt. He critiques the disingenuous nature of equating criticism of the ADL with anti-Semitism, highlighting the broader implications of such accusations in the context of free speech and political discourse.
"I'm actually putting together a list of the I won't don't ask me to name the names right now but the list of people who I call the designated Liars which are which are different from the people who ju..."
Analyzing Republican Debate Performances
Adams provides insights into the communication skills displayed during the recent Republican debate. He evaluates the candidates' performances, noting the strengths and weaknesses of figures like Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy, while also commenting on the overall effectiveness of their messaging.
"way these people believe this the the ADL when I got cancelled the ADL the head of the ADL Jonathan greenblat publicly uh declared that I was a a holocaust denier now now just just hold that in your h..."
The Rise and Fall of DeSantis
In this segment, Scott Adams reflects on Ron DeSantis's campaign trajectory, discussing how he lost momentum and the effectiveness of his previous political stunts. Adams speculates on the potential reasons behind this decline and the impact of advisors on DeSantis's strategy.
"the candidates up there except for Doug which we don't have to worry about I I was on let me just tell you I was on the after show with Rubin Dave Rubin uh Jordan Peterson and Glenn Greenwald and Jord..."
The Candidates' Communication Styles
Adams continues his analysis of the Republican candidates, discussing their communication styles and public perceptions. He shares his thoughts on figures like Mike Pence and Chris Christie, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in political success.
"she's she must be very good um uh Pence I I I I've always thought that Pence was a great vice president because he didn't cause trouble and he was reasonably you know talented that if something happen..."
John Fetterman's Unique Campaigning
Scott Adams expresses admiration for John Fetterman's campaign style, highlighting his ability to engage with voters through humor and relatability. He discusses Fetterman's recent interactions on social media and how they resonate with the public, showcasing a fresh approach in political campaigning.
"republican candidate that's that's ridiculous to me yeah yeah you know um something happened between the time that deanz was just doing his Governor stuff and when he started running did you notice th..."
Humor in Media and Politics
In the closing segment, Adams reflects on the humor found in media and political failures. He shares his favorite moments from the interview, emphasizing the comedic value of situations where individuals fail to acknowledge their shortcomings, creating a unique blend of humor and empathy.
"seen in my life it's not even a question and he just slapped down to santis I if you saw this on Twitter where he got goes He campaigns like how I dress I'm like this is just just glorious glorious st..."