In 'Spooky Action at a Distance', George Musser delves into the phenomenon of nonlocality, which challenges our classical understanding of space and time. He explores how this concept affects our comprehension of black holes, the Big Bang, and theories of everything, highlighting the contentious debates among scientists and the potential for a new unified theory of physics.
In 'Einstein's Unfinished Revolution', Lee Smolin delves into the history and challenges of quantum mechanics, highlighting its paradoxes and the ongoing debate between realist and anti-realist interpretations. Smolin advocates for moving beyond current quantum theory to develop a more comprehensive and realistic model of the universe, aligning with Einstein's quest for a unified theory of nature.
Sam Harris speaks with his wife, Annaka Harris, about LIGHTS ON, her ten-part audio documentary exploring the perplexities of consciousness and the cosmos. They discuss the hard problem of consciousness, whether consciousness is fundamental, what split-brain patients can teach us about consciousness, what consciousness being fundamental could mean for the world of physics, and other topics.
After Annaka’s conversation with Sam, we present an excerpt from LIGHTS ON.
Chapter 8: Space and Time features author and science writer George Musser, as well as physicists Lee Smolin and Carlo Rovelli. Annaka draws on their noted expertise to explore some of the most mystifying conclusions in quantum theory, how they may validate certain meditative insights, and the ways in which they challenge our basic understanding of reality.
Everyday experience tells us that space fills the universe; that causes have effects across time; that the future exists only as potential; that consciousness is confined to intelligent creatures, rather than fundamental to the very structure of being. These bedrock assumptions, when examined through both modern physics and contemplative practices, prove surprisingly fragile—and the fabric of existence profoundly counterintuitive.
Annaka Harris is the New York Times bestselling author of CONSCIOUS: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind and writer and producer of the audio documentary series, LIGHTS ON. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Nautilus Magazine, the Journal of Consciousness Studies, and IAI Magazine. She is also an editor and consultant for science writers, specializing in neuroscience and physics. Annaka is the author of the children’s book I Wonder, coauthor of the Mindful Games Activity Cards, and a volunteer mindfulness teacher for the organization Inner Kids.
Website: https://annakaharris.com/
X: @annakaharris
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Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.
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