The podcast explores conspiracy theories and the enduring allure behind them. It also delves into the complexity of lying and its impact on brain function. The episode discusses the ongoing quest to understand the Universe and the ingenuity of Costa Rican scientists dealing with pineapple waste. Additionally, it answers a South African listener's question about evolution.
Conspiracy theories thrive during times of societal disruption and when people feel a loss of control, highlighting the importance of countering misinformation and promoting critical thinking.
Research is focused on enhancing the efficiency of photosynthesis by improving the rubisco enzyme, with the goal of increasing productivity in plants for better crop yields and environmental sustainability.
Deep dives
Tropical forests may face challenges due to rising temperatures
Recent research has shown that tropical forests are at risk of becoming too hot to photosynthesize, which could have significant impacts on their ability to store carbon and support biodiversity. Scientists have used satellite and ground-based measurements to determine that some tropical forest canopies are reaching temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, a threshold at which photosynthesis begins to break down. This research highlights the need for attention to climate change impacts on these crucial ecosystems and the urgent need for conservation efforts to mitigate the potential loss of biodiversity and carbon storage.
Conspiracy theories and their appeal
Conspiracy theories can be explained as explanatory belief systems involving secret agreements among multiple actors to achieve hidden and often malevolent goals. Studies have shown that conspiracy theories gain traction during times of societal disruption and when people feel a loss of control. Psychological research indicates that individuals can be susceptible to conspiracy theories regardless of their background or demographic characteristics. It is important to counter misinformation and promote critical thinking to combat the spread of conspiracy theories.
Efforts to improve photosynthesis efficiency
Photosynthesis is the fundamental process by which plants convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into oxygen and sugar. However, it is an inefficient process, only converting about 5% of sunlight energy into plant biomass. Researchers are studying ways to enhance the efficiency of photosynthesis by focusing on improving the enzyme rubisco, which is prone to error and can hinder the process. By addressing these limitations and finding ways to improve photosynthetic efficiency, scientists hope to increase productivity in plants, leading to better crop yields and environmental sustainability.
The potential for human evolution
Human evolution is an ongoing process, driven by factors such as environmental changes and the need to adapt to new circumstances. While it is difficult to predict specific evolutionary traits, there have been discussions about the potential for humans to develop new abilities or adaptations. Some examples include the ability to generate electricity, similar to electric eels, or the development of appendages like wheels for more efficient mobility. However, it is important to note that human evolution occurs over long timescales and is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and social factors.
This week, we start off by digging into conspiracy theories. What’s behind their enduring allure? And have they always been around? Marnie and the panel investigate.
Many conspiracy theories are based off of misinformation… but what’s actually going on in our brains when we lie? We look into the case of the man who was physically unable of spreading tall tales.
Sometimes, the truth is there, but is difficult to uncover. Delving for this deeper meaning is something particle physicists like Dr Harry Cliff have been doing for decades. Harry tells us where we are in the ongoing quest to understand our Universe.
Also, we hear the ingenious way Costa Rican scientists are dealing with pineapple waste, and we answer a South African listener’s question about evolution.
Presenter: Marnie Chesterton
Producer: Sophie Ormiston, with Margaret Sessa Hawkins and Alex Mansfield
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