A doctor of psychology, and metaphysics, Eldon Taylor, discussed his work researching the mind-body connection, and how science is repeatedly demonstrating the power of belief. What you hold to be true can and does have a huge impact on the quality of your life, and can either sabotage or serve you, he argued. "The more research I did, the more I realized that there is no such thing as an inconsequential belief," he remarked, noting that even though we may segment our beliefs into different categories, such as politics, or people, they form into a large web. "You tweak one belief in one place, it causes the entire web to vibrate," he said.
He cited an intriguing study first done by the University of Washington in Seattle in which they created a bar, with attractive liquor displays. Students in the experiment were encouraged to try out different drinks, and after having a few, they exhibited changed behaviors, such as lowered inhibitions. After 3-4 drinks, motor skills were seriously impaired, and they acted drunk. Yet, the students didn't actually drink any alcohol-- only the rims of the glasses were dipped in alcohol to create the smell. "The expectation that you were drinking alcohol, combined with what you thought your limit might be, created this drunkenness," Taylor explained. Another study that demonstrates the surprising action of belief expectation is the Checkershadow Illusion.
We all have implicit biases, such as dealing with race, sex, and age which can predetermine our expectations, and even cause us to see things that aren't there, Taylor continued. While the 'Law of Attraction' has some validity, people need to take action to achieve their goals and not just try to wish something into being, he commented. Further, negative events that occur to a person aren't necessarily things they've consciously or unconsciously brought into their lives, he commented. Though some have suggested that life shouldn't be a struggle, we often gain a lot of strength through a "trial by fire," and sometimes it's within the struggle that we find our meaning, Taylor added.
Gun Crimes & Control
First hour guest, research scientist John Lott commented on a new study which showed that gun-related crimes have fallen sharply over the last 20 years in the United States, even though most Americans believe they've actually risen. Media coverage of crimes ("if it bleeds, it leads") may have contributed to this misconception, he suggested. Lott also offered criticism of the Obama administration's push for gun control, such as through increased background checks.
News segment guests: Jerome Corsi, Dr. Peter Breggin, Roger Tolces