The next monthly discussion meetup is Saturday, May 4 @ 2 PM (see below for location etc.). For this meetup, we’ll be discussing the relationship between social media and mental health, with a focus on arguments by psychologist Jonathan Haidt (particularly from his new book) and some criticisms of his interpretation of the evidence. There are readings, a podcast, and a video below, BUT feel free to come whether or not you’ve reviewed any of it, as always. (NOTE: The June topic/discussion meetup will be moved to Saturday, June 8 @ 2 PM)

READINGS ETC.

• Background and info from Jonathan Haidt
  • The evidence, from the book website: https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/research/the-evidence
  • A talk on the material from the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVq4ARIlNVg
  • A guide to facilitate exploration of ideas and experiences touched on in the book: https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/pdfs/thought-starters-for-gen-z.pdf (Framed for Gen Z but with questions anyone can consider)
• Criticisms and other perspectives
  • The Coddling of the American Parent by Mike Masnick (Free with registration) https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-coddling-of-the-american-parent
  • My Contentious Conversation with Jonathan Haidt by Tyler Cowen https://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2024/04/my-contentious-conversation-with-jonathan-haidt.html
  • Podcast episode (A conversation between Jonathan Haidt and Tyler Cowen on various topics, including the new book) https://conversationswithtyler.com/episodes/jonathan-haidt-anxious-generation/

Please feel free to come even if you’re worried it will be awkward, you won’t fit in, or you aren’t the “typical person who comes to a Rationality meetup.” We are welcoming (albeit occasionally argumentative)!

DATE & LOCATION

Date: Saturday, 5/4 @ 2pm–4pm (roughly)
Location: South Loop Strength & Conditioning – upstairs in the mezzanine
645 S Clark
Chicago IL 60605
Note: Todd owns this gym so that’s why there’s a Rationality meetup at a gym 🙂
If you have trouble finding us, please DM Todd on the Discord or post in “meetups”.