Individual Choices, Challenges, and Social Changes

Individual Choices, Challenges, and Social Changes

Author: Gwendolyn Dolske, PhD & Rudy Salo | Philosophy & Education Podcast September 17, 2025 Duration: 50:23

Gwendolyn Dolske and Rudy Salo welcome philosophers Dr. Alex Madva and Dr. Daniel Kelly, co-authors of the book Somebody Should Do Something. Together, we explore one of social psychology's most famous concepts: the fundamental attribution error.  How does misunderstanding human behavior, responsibility, and government investment lead us to the wrong solutions for the world's biggest problems?

Why do we so often blame individuals instead of recognizing the systems, structures, and environments shaping their actions? And why do so many attempts at social change fail when they focus solely on individual choice rather than collective action?

This episode examines:
• The psychology behind blaming individuals
• Why structural problems require structural solutions
• How small choices and large systems interact
• Practical ways to design meaningful, long-term social change
• Why philosophical thinking matters for public policy and everyday life

If you've ever wondered "How do we actually change society?", "Why do people behave the way they do?", or "Why do good solutions fail?", this conversation offers insight, clarity, and a fresh way to understand the complexity of social life.

Perfect for listeners interested in philosophy, social psychology, bias, ethics, behavioral science, and critical thinking.

 

Learn more about Dr. Madva and Dr. Kelly and get their book! 

Read Dr. Madva's OpEd in The NY Times: Guest Essay

Join our Patreon for more GIID content: https://www.patreon.com/GoodIsInTheDetails

 


Hosted by Gwendolyn Dolske, Ph.D., and Rudy Salo, Good Is In The Details operates on the belief that the most profound insights are often hidden in plain sight, waiting to be unpacked. This philosophy and education podcast doesn't just skim the surface of big topics; it lingers there, examining the nuances of how we think, learn, and ultimately live our lives. You'll hear thoughtful, meandering conversations with scholars, authors, and practitioners from diverse fields, all centered on how ideas from ethics, culture, and critical thinking intersect with our daily realities. The hosts have a knack for breaking down complex academic concepts without losing their depth, making each episode feel like an engaging seminar you can enjoy on a walk or during your commute. Rather than offering easy answers, this podcast provides the tools and perspectives to ask better questions, finding the substance in the subtleties that we often overlook. It’s for anyone who believes that understanding the framework of an argument or the history of a thought is just as important as the conclusion. Tune in for a consistently thoughtful exploration of the books, theories, and cultural forces that quietly shape our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 190

Good Is In The Details
Podcast Episodes
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Gwendolyn Dolske and Rudy Salo celebrate their 100th episode with gratitude and shoutouts (Jeff Cortese, Erin Darling, Angela Gorrell, Mark D White, and Matt Ritter to name a few)! Thank you to our amazing listeners and…
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Gwendolyn Dolske and Rudy Salo welcome back Philosophy Professor Mark D White to discuss his book, Marvel Comics' Thor: If They Be Worthy. What is the psychology worthiness? How does one create a life of worth? How can p…
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