Deceit and Self-Deception

24/02/2025 19 min

Listen "Deceit and Self-Deception"

Episode Synopsis

Robert Trivers's "Deceit and Self-Deception" explores the evolutionary roots and pervasive influence of deception, both in nature and human society. The book examines how self-deception can paradoxically serve survival and reproductive advantages, despite its inherent costs. It looks at the neural and psychological mechanisms underlying deception, including unconscious processes and biases in information processing. The author investigates self-deception's role in various contexts, including false historical narratives, war, religion, and personal relationships. The source also considers the interplay between deception, self-deception, and the human immune system. The source suggests that understanding these concepts is critical for navigating the complexities of social interactions and for making informed choices in our personal lives.