What creates selfishness, spite, and manipulation in human beings? Is it genetics, upbringing, or something larger at play? A groundbreaking 20-year study spanning 183 countries and all 50 US states reveals a profound truth: the societies we live in directly shape our personality traits.

This fascinating conversation explores how having your basic needs met creates the foundation for generosity and compassion. When survival is uncertain or you witness others breaking rules without consequences, self-preservation becomes the natural response. The hosts dive deep into whether perfect equality is possible or even desirable, questioning if our constant striving for more might be both our greatest flaw and our most essential driver of progress.

The discussion takes an intriguing turn when examining modern politics and media, suggesting that manufactured conflict may deliberately keep citizens engaged and distracted while powerful interests pull strings from behind the scenes. From corporate influence on news reporting to pharmaceutical advertising, the podcast raises challenging questions about who shapes our information landscape and why.

Want to understand what drives human darkness and whether we can create societies that bring out our best qualities? Listen now and join the conversation about how the rules we live by ultimately shape who we become.