#100 - Sam Harris, Ph.D.: COVID-19—Comprehending the crisis and managing our emotions

In this episode, Sam Harris, neuroscientist, author, and host of the Making Sense Podcast, joins Peter to discuss this unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. The discussion includes the important distinction between COVID-19 and influenza, the impact on the economy, the dire situation in New York, and the challenge of creating a safe and effective vaccine. Additionally, Sam brings insights from his extensive meditation practice to help those struggling with stress, anxiety, and fear in this extraordinary situation. We discuss:

• A time unlike any other—why many people don’t seem to fully grasp the magnitude of this situation [2:00];
• Why comparing COVID-19 to influenza is a bad analogy [10:45]
• The impact on the economy of measures like shelter-in-place—Is the “cure” worse than the disease? [16:45];
• Why are some places, like New York, getting hit so much worse? [24:45];
• The trickle down effect of an overrun healthcare system on non-COVID-19 related health issues [34:45];
• How to calm our minds and manage our emotions during this craziness [38:00];
• Talking to kids about this situation without burdening them with undue stress [50:15];
• Insights from meditation practice—Recognize and unhook yourself from a heightened emotional state [52:00];
• How to make the most of a situation where you let your emotions get the best of you [59:15];
• What are some potential positive things that Sam hopes could be learned from this crisis and applied to the future? [1:09:30];
• The unfortunate politics being layered on top of this crisis [1:15:30];
• The challenge of creating a safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19 [1:20:00]; and
• More.

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