Paul Giamatti’s CHINWAG with Stephen Asma

ENCORE: Hanksgiving

Nov 27, 2024

Join Tom Hanks, the two-time Oscar winner and bestselling author, as he delves into the fast-paced world of information and AI. He shares captivating thoughts on the impact of cell phones on memory and the connections between acting and writing. Explore the appeal of time travel as an escape and ponder whether to revisit the past or leap into the future. Hanks also reflects on his historical inspirations and the intriguing complexities of human nature, providing plenty of food for thought.

01:12:44

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Tom Hanks

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Quick takeaways

Tom Hanks reflects on the impact of technology and AI on human memory and cognitive dissonance in modern life.

The conversation emphasizes the evolution of human thought and creativity, highlighting how shared interests can forge meaningful connections.

Discussion on time travel fantasies reveals deeper insights into presentism, human nature, and the philosophical implications of our historical perspective.

Deep dives

Finding Unique Items Online

eBay is noted for its vast selection, making it a go-to platform for finding rare and unique items like hologram trading cards. The mention of car parts implies that eBay can provide essential items for everyday needs, eliminating frustration in the search process. The platform's variety appeals to different interests, emphasizing that whatever you're passionate about, eBay likely has it. This underscores the idea that eBay is not just a marketplace, but a treasure trove for enthusiasts and everyday shoppers alike.

Intro

4min

Cultural Evolution and the Role of AI

17min

Nostalgia and Realities of Acting Amidst Promotions

4min

The Depths of Movie-Making and Time Travel

19min

Thought Experiments on Infidelity and Historical Perspectives

4min

Human Nature and Its Evolving Perspective

15min

The Mysterious Power of Intuition and Imagination

4min

🦃🎞️⏳

As we approach Thanksgiving, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations with the legendary Tom Hanks. Paul, Stephen, and Tom discuss the speed of information, ChatGPT, cognitive dissonance in AI, and even question the use of Waze to beat traffic. How have our memories changed since the advent of cell phones? Are acting skills useful when it comes to writing a book?

Plus, Tom still recalls his Bosom Buddies co-star Peter Scolari’s lines from 1980 and shares a baseball/acting analogy that puts it all in perspective. Why are time travel fantasies the perfect escape, and where does Tom dream of going? What’s the logic of time travel, and what would be better: going back to the past or moving forward into the future?

Tom shares cautionary food for thought from Thornton Wilder and Charlton Heston, along with lessons gleaned from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episodes. Also, what are the rules of infidelity in time travel, and has there ever been a true golden age? Tom explains what it means to be a “presentist,” why he’s a bit of a skeptic, and joins the guys in exploring whether or not human nature has really changed over time.

Paul Giamatti is an award-winning actor and producer. Stephen Asma is a professor and author specializing in the philosophy of science, religion, and art.

Tom Hanks is a 2-time Academy Award winning actor, writer and author. His novel The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece is a New York Times Best Seller. His charitable coffee line, Hanx: For Our Troops, can be found at givehanx.com or on instagram @givehanx. All profits go to those who serve, and their families.

🦃🎞️⏳

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Paul Giamatti’s CHINWAG with Stephen Asma

ENCORE: Hanksgiving

Episode guests