Curiosity Theory Physics, Brains, and the Future of Intelligence Collab w/ From First Principles
Jan 20, 2026
Lester Nare and Krishna Choudhury, co-hosts of From First Principles, delve into the fascinating intersection of physics, neuroscience, and technology. They explore how principles of thermodynamics apply to life and societal systems, contrasting communal networks in Tulsa with the fragmented scenes in Los Angeles. The discussion spans from the rapid acceleration of human technology to the ethical implications of AI, revealing insights into emotional systems, memory, and even the manipulation of neural pathways in animals to influence behavior.
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From Princeton To LA Creative Path
- Krishna Choudhury described shifting from an econ major to a visual arts program and building a creative career in LA after Princeton.
- He explained how Princeton alumni paths funneled to finance, DC, and SF, making LA feel like a haven for creatives.
PhD Skills Are Widely Transferable
- Dakotah Tyler noted PhD skills transfer widely beyond academia into industry roles like finance and tech.
- He emphasized that scientific training teaches critical thinking and quantitative tools valuable across sectors.
Life Harnesses Entropy To Build Order
- Lester Nare framed life as harnessing the second law of thermodynamics to create low-entropy order.
- He argued biology doesn't violate physics but exploits energy flows to build structure.
