The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1069 - Jan 3 2026
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Jan 3, 2026 The hosts dive into psychic predictions for 2025, assessing their accuracy while tackling everything from environmental upheavals to celebrity outcomes. A compelling debate on biological versus artificial consciousness unpacks the future of sentient AI. An innovative ADHD intervention study emphasizes the power of strengths-based therapy. Plus, a fascinating look at the potential of a fentanyl vaccine raises eyebrows. The conversation also explores EV advancements, the implications of mega-constellations, and the risks of orbital disasters.
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EV Purchase And Hydrogen Skepticism
- Stephen Novella recounts buying a second EV and debating hydrogen cars with a new dealership salesman.
- He explains why hydrogen makes no sense for consumer cars and prefers EV infrastructure and batteries improving in 2026.
Battery Breakthroughs Will Change EV Economics
- Silicon‑anode and sodium‑ion batteries will reshape EV range and cost in 2026.
- Silicon anode boosts range/energy density while sodium‑ion cuts battery cost for lower‑range cars.
Why Psychic Forecasts Fail
- The panel reviewed psychic predictions for 2025 and found them vague, unfalsifiable, or merely trend‑based.
- Psychics missed major unexpected events and often retroactively claim hits by reinterpreting vague statements.