StarTalk Radio The Paradox of Sleep with Matthew Walker
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Oct 27, 2023 
Neuroscientist Matthew Walker joins the hosts to break down the mystery of sleep. They discuss the purpose and evolution of sleep, the influence of circadian rhythms, the impact of sleep on mental health, and debunk the belief in prophetic dreams.
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Sleep's Importance
- Sleep is surprisingly necessary, even though it seems like a vulnerability.
- Every species studied exhibits sleep or a sleep-like state, suggesting its vital role.
Sleep Across Species
- Sleep duration varies greatly across species, with no single factor explaining it.
- Factors like metabolic rate, size, and predator status don't fully explain sleep duration differences.
Circadian Rhythms
- Circadian rhythms are biological processes with a period of approximately 24 hours.
- External cues like light and feeding times help synchronize these rhythms to precisely 24 hours.