Moving beyond WEIRD samples

The reliance on WEIRD samples has limited our understanding of human cognition and behavior, but best practices have yet to emerge for how to move beyond WEIRD samples. Many cite Henrich et al's (2010) WEIRD paper as an apology in the limitations section, few gather samples beyond WEIRD populations, and fewer still strategically sample populations based on theory and cultural distance. I'll briefly present some new data from Namibia and Angola that underscores the need to move beyond WEIRD samples, drawing on the broader framework presented in my book, A Theory of Everyone. I'll then discuss pragmatics and best practices for sampling beyond WEIRD populations. Considerations include deciding the goal of sample selection - e.g. generalization vs specific theory test; strategically selecting samples; running cross-cultural studies online with new tools such as Besample, cross-cultural collaborations, and best practices for field research. I'll discuss specific insights from my work in India, Namibia and Angola, and Zanzibar. If there's time, I'll also discuss new possibilities afforded by LLMs.

Zoom link

Meeting-ID: 617 2219 0659
Password: 462265