Episode Details

Dr. John Vervaeke engages in a multi-faceted conversation with Carla Groom, who is ingeniously incorporating cognitive science into her work. Vervaeke provides a scholarly background on mental models, drawing from philosophy and cognitive science to elucidate how humans make sense of their world. Groom shares her front-line experiences, revealing how these theories translate into actionable insights in government. The discussion evolves into a kaleidoscope of ideas, from the dynamics of mental models in decision-making to the nuanced philosophy of 'we agency' and collective intelligence. The conversation not only dissects the complexities of problem-solving in the public sector but also expands to the cosmos as they explore how NASA scientists navigate rovers on Mars. Focusing on the intricate balance between human cognition and the demands of large organizational structures, this episode is an intellectual treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the crossroads of cognitive science, governance, and human behavior.

Carla Groom is a pioneering force in the realm of behavioral science, currently steering the field of Human-Centred Design Science at the UK's Department of Work and Pensions. With a doctorate in social psychology from Northwestern University, she identified fundamental flaws in traditional empirical research methods, leading her to become a luminary in policy and organizational decision-making. Carla's unique practice focuses on debunking false assumptions in policy design by digging deep into contextual human behavior. Not only is she a sought-after conference speaker and academic peer reviewer, but she also thrives on educating others in her transformative methods. Her multidisciplinary team of experts continually enriches her own understanding, making her a perpetual student in a field in which she has substantially evolved.

Resources:

Carla Groom: LinkedIn | X

John Vervaeke: Website | Patreon | Facebook | X | YouTube

The Vervaeke Foundation

Circling & Dialogos - workshop

John Vervaeke — YouTube:

• Bridging Behavioral Science & Government Policies for a Meaningful Work Experience

• AI: The Coming Thresholds and The Path We Must Take | Internationally Acclaimed Cognitive Scientist

• The Future of Governance:

• The Future of Governance Part 1 | Jordan Hall and John Vervaeke

• The Future of Governance Part 2 | Jordan Hall and John Vervaeke

• The Future of Governance Part 3 | Jordan Hall and John Vervaeke

Climbing Mt. Sophia