The Paradox of Math Proficiency: Why Smarter Individuals May Struggle with Certain Problems

Research suggests that higher math ability can lead to poorer performance on specific math problems. Explore the reasoning behind this phenomenon and gain insights into the complexities of mathematical thinking.

Veritasium5.8M views14:35

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Being better at math can make you worse at math problems, and it’s completely rational. Get all sides of every story at https://groundnews.com/Ve and read the news with a data-driven approach. Subscribe through my link for 50% off unlimited access– their biggest discount of the year.

00:00 This research paper has fascinated me for years
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5:10 The gun control question
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9:27 Why people think tribally
10:38 What can we do about political polarisation?

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References:
Kahan D, M. et al. (Sept 3, 2014). Motivated numeracy and enlightened self-government. Behavioural public policy, 1(1), 54-86 - https://ve42.co/Kahan2017
TEDx Talks. (Dec 10, 2018). Are Smart People Ruining Democracy? via Youtube - https://ve42.co/KahanTedx
Cardiff University. (Mar 6, 2014). The Science Communication Environment via Youtube - https://ve42.co/KahanCardiff
spitfirestrategies. (Nov 21, 2012). How cultural values shape beliefs and perceptions of risk via Youtube - https://ve42.co/KahanSpirit

Images & Video:
TEDx Talks. (Dec 10, 2018). Are Smart People Ruining Democracy? via Youtube - https://ve42.co/KahanTedx


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Directed by Wylie Overstreet and Derek Muller
Written by Wylie Overstreet and Derek Muller
Edited by Trenton Oliver
Animated by Fabio Albertelli, James Cheetham
Illustrated by Jakub Misiek, Emma Wright, and Maria Gusakovich
Filmed by Derek Muller and Wylie Overstreet
Additional research by Gabe Strong
Produced by Wylie Overstreet, Derek Muller, Rob Beasley Spence, Gabe Strong, Gregor Čavlović, and Tori Brittain
Thumbnail contributions by Jakub Misiek, Ren Hurley and Peter Sheppard
Additional video/photos supplied by Getty Images, Storyblocks
Music from Epidemic Sound

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14:35

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Published
Nov 4, 2024

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