In the third episode of our exploration into gaming, we go into the psychology and philosophy involved and discuss hidden structures of play with guest Shaday Agosto-Vázquez. From the emotional dynamics in sports to why gaming functions as a life skill, this episode unpacks how games can reveal human behavior, storytelling patterns, systems of control, and the limits of objectivity. Together, we discover why designers frustrate us on purpose, how algorithms act on casino logic, and the false dichotomies we fall into from lack of understanding. Listen now to find out what gaming reveals about us and what happens when we learn the hidden rules.
Stephen Fry Quoting Zamyatin on Progress
The referenced idea that progress comes from “madmen, hermits, dreamers, rebels, and skeptics”—not rule-keepers—ties directly into gaming as a tool for creative experimentation.
Quotable
“Nobody can make you agree without your consent.
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Used in the conversation to explain emotional self-control in competition and decision-making.
Quotable
“Gaming is so integrated in our culture—our idioms, our language, everything.
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Referencing how words like “roll the dice,” “sweeten the pot,” or “take one for the team” reflect gaming logic embedded in society.
Alea Iacta Est — “The Die Has Been Cast”
Historical origin of the idiom mentioned in the episode, famous as Julius Caesar’s declaration before crossing the Rubicon.
The foundational text arguing humans should be understood as a “playful species”—key to this episode’s themes.
John Company — Board Game About the East India Company
Referenced as an example of board games intentionally creating discomfort to teach historical or moral insight.
Quotable
“Loss aversion keeps players clinging to bad strategies simply because they've already invested in them.
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Tied to behavioral economics and political decision-making.
Follow Up Notes
The conversation highlights how modern military operations can create subroutines of focus—soldiers fixate on micro-tasks while unknowingly contributing to larger geopolitical strategies.
Book referenced in episode discussing how human behavior is
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