#113: Normative errors — a conversation with my daughter about current events

Summary

The podcast episode features a father and daughter discussing the aftermath of George Floyd's death and the systemic racism present in law enforcement. The daughter expresses her confusion about the situation and the protests, while the father shares a personal experience of being racially profiled by a police officer. They discuss the history of racism in the United States and the need for a zero-tolerance policy for racism in law enforcement.

The father draws an analogy between doctors and police officers to highlight the importance of ethics and morality in their professions. He explains that while technical and judgment errors can be forgiven if the doctor takes responsibility and learns from their mistakes, normative errors involving lying or putting personal interests ahead of the patient's cannot be tolerated. The host emphasizes the need to identify systemic racism as a normative error and encourages open and honest discussion about it.

The episode concludes with a discussion on what can be done to address racism and change the system, including voting and political action. The host expresses surprise that teachers are not discussing politics and current events in school and encourages more open dialogue about important issues.

Overall, the episode provides a helpful perspective for those struggling to explain the situation to their children and emphasizes the need for accountability and action to address systemic racism in law enforcement and beyond.