JRE #961 – Graham Hancock, Randall Carlson & Michael Shermer

by

5/16/2017






Joe Rogan Podcast #961 Topics

Joe Rogan Podcast #961 Topics: A Deep Dive into Ancient Civilizations, Catastrophes, and the Nature of Reality

This podcast features a fascinating conversation between Joe Rogan, Graham Hancock, Randall Carlson, and Michael Shermer. Together, they delve into provocative topics surrounding ancient civilizations, catastrophic events, and the nature of reality. The conversation is rife with intellectual sparring, scientific skepticism, and a shared passion for exploring the unknown. This is a breakdown of the key themes and topics explored in this thought-provoking episode.

  1. Ancient Civilizations and Lost Knowledge:
    • Hancock advocates for the existence of advanced civilizations predating recorded history, proposing they possessed sophisticated knowledge and technology.
    • He points to archaeological evidence, such as megalithic structures and advanced astronomical knowledge, to support his theory.
    • Hancock’s perspective challenges traditional historical narratives and raises questions about the limits of our understanding of the past.
    • He argues that these lost civilizations may have been wiped out by catastrophic events, such as cometary impacts, which could explain the sudden disappearances of these advanced societies.
  2. Catastrophic Events and the Younger Dryas:
    • Carlson presents evidence for a major catastrophic event that occurred around 12,900 years ago, known as the Younger Dryas impact event.
    • He suggests that a cometary impact triggered widespread environmental changes, including a sudden cooling period and extinctions.
    • He highlights the presence of nano-diamonds, platinum, and other anomalous materials at numerous sites, which he argues are evidence of a cosmic impact.
    • Carlson’s theory has been met with skepticism from the mainstream scientific community, but it continues to attract attention and fuel debate.
  3. The Role of Myth and Legend:
    • The podcast explores the potential connection between ancient myths and legends and actual historical events.
    • Hancock suggests that these myths may be encoded with information about past catastrophes and lost civilizations.
    • He argues that myths often convey patterns and symbols that can be interpreted to reveal hidden knowledge.
    • The discussion highlights the enduring power of storytelling as a means of transmitting knowledge and preserving cultural memory across generations.
  4. Scientific Skepticism and the Search for Truth:
    • Shermer represents a skeptical perspective, challenging Hancock and Carlson’s claims with rigorous scientific analysis.
    • He emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence and the need to avoid confirmation bias.
    • The discussion highlights the critical role of skepticism in scientific inquiry, even when confronting seemingly outlandish claims.
    • Despite their differences, all participants express a shared desire for uncovering truth and expanding our understanding of the world.
  5. The Nature of Consciousness and the Potential for Extrasensory Perception:
    • The podcast touches on the nature of consciousness and the possibility of extrasensory perception (ESP).
    • Hancock suggests that our understanding of consciousness may be limited by our current scientific paradigms.
    • He explores the possibility of non-local consciousness and the potential for humans to connect with each other and the universe in ways that we don’t fully understand.
    • The conversation raises thought-provoking questions about the limits of human perception and the possibility of experiencing reality beyond our ordinary senses.
  6. The Importance of Open-Mindedness and Critical Thinking:
    • Throughout the discussion, the importance of open-mindedness and critical thinking is repeatedly emphasized.
    • The podcast encourages listeners to question assumptions, consider alternative explanations, and engage in intellectual exploration.
    • It highlights the value of diverse perspectives and the potential for unexpected discoveries when challenging established paradigms.
    • The participants emphasize the need to maintain an intellectual curiosity and a willingness to entertain new ideas, even those that may initially seem outlandish.
  7. The Potential for a Global Catastrophe:
    • The discussion touches on the potential for future catastrophic events, particularly those related to climate change and asteroid impacts.
    • The participants explore the need for preparedness and the importance of understanding the risks facing humanity.
    • They discuss the potential for technological solutions, but also acknowledge the limitations of human control over natural forces.
    • The podcast serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of taking steps to protect our planet and future generations.
  8. The Significance of History and the Search for Meaning:
    • The podcast emphasizes the significance of history as a source of wisdom and guidance for the present and future.
    • The participants argue that studying the past can provide valuable insights into the nature of human civilization and the challenges we face.
    • They suggest that understanding past catastrophes can help us prepare for future ones and avoid repeating past mistakes.
    • The conversation highlights the search for meaning and purpose in the face of human history’s complexities and challenges.
  9. The Power of Storytelling and the Human Imagination:
    • The podcast emphasizes the power of storytelling to convey knowledge, inspire imagination, and shape cultural beliefs.
    • The participants explore how myths and legends can serve as vehicles for transmitting cultural memory and informing our understanding of the world.
    • The discussion underscores the role of the human imagination in shaping our perception of reality and fostering a sense of wonder.
    • It highlights the importance of embracing storytelling as a powerful tool for exploring the unknown and seeking meaning in the world around us.
  10. The Nature of Evidence and the Limits of Scientific Knowledge:
    • The podcast explores the limitations of scientific knowledge and the potential for biases in scientific inquiry.
    • The participants discuss the need for open-minded skepticism and the importance of acknowledging the limitations of our current understanding of the universe.
    • They highlight the need for continued exploration and the possibility of making unexpected discoveries that challenge our current paradigms.
    • The conversation serves as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge is a continuous process and that the boundaries of what we know are constantly expanding.
  11. The Importance of Preserving the Past:
    • The podcast highlights the importance of preserving archaeological sites and historical records.
    • The participants emphasize the value of these resources as a window into the past and a source of knowledge for future generations.
    • They discuss the challenges of protecting these sites from destruction and the need for responsible stewardship of our cultural heritage.
    • The conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of connecting with our past and learning from the experiences of those who came before us.
  12. The Role of Intuition and Personal Experience:
    • The podcast acknowledges the role of intuition and personal experience in the search for truth.
    • The participants discuss how subjective experiences can sometimes lead to valuable insights, even if they are difficult to quantify or verify scientifically.
    • They encourage listeners to trust their own intuition and to be open to the possibility of experiencing reality beyond the realm of scientific explanation.
    • The conversation highlights the importance of integrating both rational thought and intuitive understanding in our pursuit of knowledge and meaning.
  13. The Importance of Connecting with Nature:
    • The podcast explores the connection between humans and the natural world and the importance of preserving biodiversity.
    • The participants discuss how understanding the Earth’s history can help us appreciate the delicate balance of life and the need for responsible stewardship.
    • They emphasize the importance of connecting with nature, not only for our own well-being but also for the future of the planet.
    • The conversation serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of taking action to protect our environment.
  14. The Search for Meaning in a Complex World:
    • The podcast explores the search for meaning and purpose in a world filled with complexity and uncertainty.
    • The participants discuss how studying history, exploring the unknown, and connecting with nature can help us find a sense of purpose and direction.
    • They encourage listeners to embrace intellectual curiosity, to question assumptions, and to seek answers to life’s big questions.
    • The conversation serves as a reminder that the search for meaning is a personal journey and that there is no single answer for everyone.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “I think the greatest myth is the myth that we’re alone in the universe.” – Graham Hancock
  • “We’re living in a world where people are afraid to ask questions.” – Joe Rogan
  • “The truth is out there, but it’s buried under a lot of bullshit.” – Randall Carlson
  • “Science is a process of eliminating wrong ideas.” – Michael Shermer
  • “The universe is a lot weirder than we think it is.” – Joe Rogan