Science Vs Dire Wolves! They're Back?
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May 29, 2025 
This discussion features DT Maxx, a writer at The New Yorker, and Robert Klitzman, a Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. They dive into the recent claim of bringing dire wolves back to life, exploring the ethical and scientific challenges of de-extinction. The conversation highlights the excitement surrounding genetic engineering and its implications for biodiversity. They also address the motivations behind such groundbreaking efforts and the potential consequences for wildlife conservation, providing a thought-provoking perspective on this controversial topic.
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DT Maxx's Dire Wolf Experience
- DT Maxx describes seeing the dire wolf pups, emphasizing their celebrity-like status and unique appearance.
- Despite not being a dire wolf by strict definition, the pups exhibit typical wolf behaviors and majesty.
Colossal's Funding and Ambition
- Colossal raised over $400 million with a valuation exceeding $10 billion.
- High funding advances de-extinction faster than traditional university labs constrained by grants.
Challenges and Momentum in De-Extinction
- De-extinction of animals like dire wolves is technically feasible but complex.
- The vast funding and fun entrepreneurial spirit drive progress compared to slower academic grant processes.
