In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen

Saul Perlmutter: The Accelerating Universe, Doubt as a Superpower and the Science of Collaboration

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Dec 24, 2025
Saul Perlmutter, a Nobel Prize-winning experimental cosmologist, shares insights on the accelerating expansion of the universe and the importance of collaboration in science. He highlights the power of diverse teams and urges effective communication to tackle global issues. Drawing parallels with chamber music, he emphasizes listening and responsiveness in teamwork. Perlmutter also discusses critical thinking tools, the pitfalls of confirmation bias, and how AI can influence our cognitive processes. His reflections on uncertainty and youth encourage future generations to embrace scientific thinking.
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Science Is A Toolbox For Solving Big Problems

  • Scientific thinking is a collection of tools beyond simple hypothesis-testing, including probabilistic reasoning and collaborative critique.
  • Saul Perlmutter argues these tools let us solve planetary-scale problems if we learn to communicate and work together effectively.
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Think In Probabilities, Not Absolutes

  • Think probabilistically: assign degrees of belief rather than binary certainty when judging claims.
  • Admit uncertainty aloud so groups can weigh ideas by plausibility instead of ego.
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Doubt As A Scientific Superpower

  • Scientific progress hinges on doubting your own work and actively seeking mistakes.
  • Perlmutter calls this persistent skepticism a superpower that sharpens theories and experiments.
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