Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Nathan Myhrvold on NASA's lies, Theories of Everything, working with Hawking, and COVID lockdowns

Jan 29, 2021
Nathan Myhrvold is a visionary who has impacted fields from nuclear power to modernist cuisine, previously working at Microsoft Research. In this lively discussion, he shares insights on collaboration with Stephen Hawking and critiques the stagnation in theoretical physics since the '80s. Myhrvold also addresses the complexities of pandemic responses and the ethical challenges in scientific practices, particularly NASA's asteroid research. He proposes innovative geoengineering solutions for climate change, emphasizing the importance of scientific integrity and trust.
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ANECDOTE

Working with Hawking

  • Nathan Myhrvold worked with Stephen Hawking during Hawking's pre-synthesizer days.
  • Communication involved listening and guessing, making it hard to understand Hawking's jokes.
INSIGHT

Hawking's Influence

  • Stephen Hawking's positive attitude despite physical challenges was inspiring.
  • It made others feel grateful for their own abilities.
INSIGHT

Einstein's Uniqueness

  • Einstein's brilliance coincided with a time ripe for discovery, making comparisons difficult.
  • True "next Einsteins" are rare, requiring both brilliance and opportune timing.
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