Throwback Monday: Does Democracy Need a Rebrand? | AJ Jacobs
Shownotes
We’re taking a holiday break this week and revisiting a favorite conversation with AJ Jacobs about his year-long experiment living by 18th-century principles inspired by the U.S. Constitution. From tricorn hats and quill pens to rediscovering “Election Cakes,” AJ explores how early American civic life blended community, ritual, and democracy. We also dig into “epistemic humility” and Benjamin Franklin’s warnings about misinformation, which remain strikingly relevant today. Sit back, pop your headphones in, and enjoy this unique look at the American Experiment.
©2026 Behavioral Grooves
Topics[0:00] Election day traditions
[4:25] Speed round with AJ Jacobs
[9:44] Living Colonially: What I learned
[18:56] Epistemic humility and political perspectives
[23:52] Constitutional originalism
[36:29] How do we frame the constitution?
[40:40] Election cakes and celebrating democracy
[48:52] Embracing experimentation in everyday life
[52:56] Grooving session: open-mindedness, civic duty, and cake recipes
©2026 Behavioral Grooves
LinksThe Year of Living Constitutionally
Musical Links