The Treasure of the Scout Mindset

Are you a “scout” or a “soldier”? What do those terms even mean? In Julia ...

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Are you a “scout” or a “soldier”? What do those terms even mean? In Julia Galef’s new book, The Scout Mindset, she argues the scout mindset is underrepresented in today’s world. “The scout’s role, unlike the soldier, is not to go out and attack or defend,” she says. “It’s to go out, and see what’s really out there as clearly as possible and to put together as accurate a map of the territory or a situation as you can.” Plus, listen closely for Steve’s John McLaughlin impression and why Julia believes bouncing between Airbnbs is way better than signing an actual lease.

Show Notes:

-“The Scout Mindset” by Julia Galef

–Rationally Speaking Podcast

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  1. John Williston

    I'm a little late here to the discussion, as I can't keep up with the podcast, and I want to be clear from the outset that I absolutely endorse the findings of the scout mindset and such. But I also have to say it's disappointing when yet another term is coined for a concept that used to be taught as part of the most basic curriculum. Anyone taking a decent epistemology 101 course would get a grounding in the philosophical history of intellectual honesty, which summarized succinctly requires only that you (1) affirm what you have reason to believe is true, (2) reject what you have reason to believe is false, and (3) withhold judgment in *ALL* other cases. There's more to be said, of course, but maybe what the world needs is a simple return to what it already figured out, rather than another attempt to re-discover and re-describe it?

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  2. DocHeartless

    This has been one of the best podcasts you all have arranged. I have a MAJOR crush right now on Ms. Galef. Frankly, I want to be more like her. Honestly, I want to be less like myself (very soldiery and given to infuriating people with my opinions) and more like this. It's so hard to change your perspective and the way you argue with people when you're rolling up on 50. I'm reminded of the scene in "A beautiful day in the neighborhood," from the incredible Chris Cooper on his deathbed: "It's so unfair. I'm just now learning how I want to live my life." I'm having an epiphanic moment right now sitting in my basement as I think about all the people in my life I have likely convinced of the exact opposite of what I desired simply because of my over-confident and infuriating approach. Have you heard about the dating coaches that accompany socially awkward people into hook up bars and instruct them how to behave? I wish I could have a social debate coach at my side that could pause conversation here and there and critique my approach. Brilliant podcast you guys - my sincere thanks!!

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    Howard

    I used to be an avid listener of “Rationally Speaking,” but her old co-host Massimo Pigliucci gets to be a bit much. However, I forgot how much I enjoyed Galef. I might give RS another try after all these years. Thank you for bringing Galef back to my attention.

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    RevJulia

    Wow just read first half of book—better than I anticipated! Lots of new perspectives.

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  5. Very Old Grumpy Guy

    Excellent. I think the phrase "Hold your identity lightly" is very powerful.

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    Ethan Cordray

    As the husband of a proud Harry Potter fan fic writer, I LOVE the shoutout for Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality. Worlds colliding!

    This was a really, really great interview. So many interesting subjects covered, such great rapport between the guest and the hosts. Thanks a lot for introducing me to Julia Galef's work!

    One thing, though: Airbnb surfing might be better than renting in certain unusual circumstances, like the insane San Francisco housing market, but it's really not gonna be a thing in most parts of the country. Julia's right about leases being super high-risk, though!

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    CBByrd

    I appreciated the distinction between epistymological confidence, social confidence, snd performance confidence. I think the discussion led to some even more helpful insights than simply the distinction between scout snd soldier mindsets. And as was pointed out we are a mix of each. It seems one may operate in one or the other mode often based on the topic and the audience depending on how those three confidences are used.

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  8. Meg

    I loved this episode. I was left wondering if more women are scouts rather than soldiers. Just something I'm thinking about. I haven't read the book so I'm not sure if she really addresses it. I know they kind of touched on it during the podcast.

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  9. Michael.Terrien

    Absolutely loved this podcast. Can't wait to read the book. This scout/soldier distinction is so, so important. It's not new, but I've come to think that the key marker for maturity is being a scout.

    Sports, however, I think are an exception. The whole purpose of sports is to give us a chance to let our inner soldier's freak flag fly in a forum where we can't do any real harm. With sports we get to be tribal, soldiers, and part of the mob, but it's all play acting.

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    Angie

    I am late to the party, busy weekend...
    I really, really, loved this podcast, it was fun, informative and near and dear to my heart
    Gonna check out her book

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