In this episode of The Xanadu Review, I’m joined by Ancient Problemz. We discuss the ups and downs of being an outsider, the IQ question, Jewish identity, the uncomfortable realities of in-group preference, the evolution of identity categories, comparing and contrasting cultures and the limits of liberal universalism.
Oct 29Liked by Ancient Problemz, Prester John's Revenge
I enjoyed the simple explanation that AP gives for “why the explosion of interest in IQ?” Ordinary people are being browbeaten every day about bad life outcomes of some groups.
But the q is just wrong framing; failure is the default, and success is what needs explanation; just like how WASP culture is wrongly framed as default but is exceptional & merits investigation.
Or BAP’s “dork right” idea, which tries tying it to social and sexual inadequacy. But the parsimonious explanation is ppl want satisfying answers, not endless failing utopian Programz.
I enjoyed the simple explanation that AP gives for “why the explosion of interest in IQ?” Ordinary people are being browbeaten every day about bad life outcomes of some groups.
But the q is just wrong framing; failure is the default, and success is what needs explanation; just like how WASP culture is wrongly framed as default but is exceptional & merits investigation.
Many writers try to psychoanalyze people who are curious about group differences. For example https://open.substack.com/pub/sebjenseb/p/profiles-of-hbders this typology
Or BAP’s “dork right” idea, which tries tying it to social and sexual inadequacy. But the parsimonious explanation is ppl want satisfying answers, not endless failing utopian Programz.
To solve the takes before death - have a stash of good takes to release...just in case!
This is the evolutionary explanation for dad jokes.
Ha smart point. Gotta make it to dad joke era