Taste the Science: The 253rd Evolutionary Lens with Bret Weinstein and Heather Heying
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Nov 27, 2024
This discussion dives into innovative solutions to reduce methane emissions from cattle, spotlighting a feed additive called Bovear. The hosts unpack ruminant biology and the complexities of modern farming practices. They also explore the disinformation in media regarding science and encourage open dialogue as families gather for Thanksgiving. There’s a humorous take on turkey preparation and financial insights, wrapping up with a call for kindness and understanding amid differing opinions.
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Complex Systems Considerations
Consider the unintended consequences of disrupting complex biological systems like a cow's digestive process.
Acknowledge the trade-offs and potential harm to cows and humans.
insights INSIGHT
Ruminant Digestion
Ruminants digest cellulose through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria, turning inedible forage into nutritious food.
This ancient process allows us to utilize land unsuitable for cultivation.
insights INSIGHT
Rumen Ecosystem Complexity
The rumen ecosystem is complex, and interfering with it can have unforeseen adaptive consequences.
Even if methane reduction is achieved, the system may revert.
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The Solutions We Have and the Breakthroughs We Need
Bill Gates
In 'How to Avoid a Climate Disaster,' Bill Gates presents a detailed plan for eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, drawing from over a decade of his research and investment in climate change solutions. The book is organized into five parts, starting with the necessity of achieving zero emissions rather than just reducing them. Gates discusses the challenges in achieving this goal, provides practical questions to evaluate climate change conversations, and analyzes current and future technologies that can help mitigate climate change. He advocates for increased innovation in clean energy, including nuclear power, and emphasizes the importance of reducing the 'green premium' – the additional cost of green energy. The book also outlines specific steps for governments, market participants, and individuals to take in order to collectively avoid a climate disaster[2][3][4].
The Ecology of Care: Medicine, Agriculture, Money, and the Quiet Power of Human and Microbial Communities
The Ecology of Care: Medicine, Agriculture, Money, and the Quiet Power of Human and Microbial Communities
Didi Pershouse
In 'The Ecology of Care,' Didi Pershouse delves into the intricate relationships between soil health, public health, and the broader ecological system. The book discusses how beneficial microorganisms play a crucial role in these systems and how changes in land management can improve both human health and environmental sustainability. It offers practical strategies for collaborating with natural systems to reduce issues like flooding, drought, and wildfires, and to promote overall ecological and human well-being.
In this 253rd in a series of live discussions with Bret Weinstein and Heather Heying (both PhDs in Biology), we talk about the state of the world through an evolutionary lens.
In this week’s episode, we follow the science to fewer cow farts. Bovear, an FDA approved product that is fed to cattle to reduce their production of methane, is the result of yet more reductionist, metric-heavy research that conflates complex systems with complicated ones. Bill Gates approves, though, so what could go wrong? We discuss ruminant biology, the actual Carbon impact of grazing cattle, and some other great new products from the makers of Bovear, including “the world’s first-ever flavor created by artificial intelligence.” Then: why is the BBC’s disinformation wing concerned about what Bret said on Diary of a CEO? What happened to journalism? Finally: it’s Thanksgiving tomorrow. Liberals are supposed to be high in openness—consider being open to the differing views of your friends and family, and have a wonderful time together.
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Mississippi State on Ruminant Biology: http://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publications/P2503_web.pdf
McAllister, T.A. and Newbold, C.J., 2008. Redirecting rumen fermentation to reduce methanogenesis. Australian journal of experimental agriculture, 48(2): 7-13: https://www.publish.csiro.au/an/EA07218
Pershouse 2016. The Ecology of Care: Medicine, Agriculture, Money, and the Quiet Power of Human and Microbial Communities. Mycelium Books: https://www.didipershouse.com/the-ecology-of-care.html
DSM’s science and research: https://our-company.dsm-firmenich.com/en/our-company/science-research.html
MIT Technology Review on methane reduction in cows: https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/10/01/1104391/2024-climate-tech-companies-rumin8-bovine-supplements/
Diary of a CEO episode w Bret: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=BN5eVlIijaUOkyVH&v=_cFu-b5lTMU&feature=youtu.be
BBC and far-right videos: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2n8pzk7gzo.amp
Oregon Health Authority and the election: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORHA/bulletins/3c0a48e
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