Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content
#394 - Bringing Back the Mammoth
Dec 3, 2024
Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal Biosciences and a technology entrepreneur, passionately discusses his groundbreaking work in de-extinction. He shares insights on reviving the woolly mammoth and other species, fleshing out the challenges and scientific innovations involved. The conversation dives into the role of AI in genetic engineering, the significance of artificial womb technology, and the potential environmental and economic benefits of reintroducing extinct species into their habitats. Lamm also addresses misconceptions related to these ambitious efforts.
47:01
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Quick takeaways
- Colossal Biosciences utilizes advanced genomic techniques to de-extinct species like the woolly mammoth, focusing on ecological revitalization and biodiversity enhancement.
- The company's approach emphasizes collaboration with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that rewilding efforts respect cultural narratives and land rights.
Deep dives
De-Extinction Vision and Biodiversity Crisis
Colossal Biosciences aims to tackle the alarming biodiversity crisis by focusing on de-extinction projects. The company is particularly concerned about projections indicating a potential loss of up to 50% of biodiversity by 2050, necessitating innovative approaches to species preservation. Co-founders Ben Lamb and George Church are inspired by their vision of revitalizing ecosystems through the reintroduction of extinct species like the woolly mammoth, Tasmanian tiger, and dodo, seeing this as a way to enhance biodiversity. They also hope to leverage related technologies for advancements in human healthcare, creating a dual benefit from their work.
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