Making Sense with Sam Harris

#323 — Science & Survival

Jun 22, 2023

In this conversation with Martin Rees, a prominent astronomer and former president of the Royal Society, captivating insights unfold. They discuss the pivotal role of science in managing existential risks like AI and pandemics. The podcast delves into the Fermi Paradox, pondering why we haven’t found advanced extraterrestrial life. Rees also emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific progress, countering the myth of the lone genius. Additionally, they explore ethical concerns about technology's future and its impact on humanity.

46:10

Creator website

Episode guests

Martin Rees

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Quasi Myth of the Lone Genie in Science

01:38

The Possibility of Engineered Viruses: A Nightmare Scenario

01:24

Intro

3min

Exploring Existential Risks Through a Scientific Lens

2min

Navigating Provisionality and Authority in Science

4min

The Myth of the Lone Genius

6min

Navigating Existential Risks of Technology

28min

Exploring the Fermi Paradox: The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

3min

Sam Harris speaks with Martin Rees about the importance of science and scientific institutions. They discuss the provisionality of science, the paradox of authority, genius, civilizational risks, pandemic preparedness, artificial intelligence, nuclear weapons, the far future, the Fermi problem, the prospect of a "Great Filter", the multiverse, string theory, exoplanets, large telescopes, improving scientific institutions, wealth inequality, atheism, the conflict between science and religion, moral realism, and other topics.

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Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.

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