The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1052 - Sep 6 2025
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Sep 6, 2025 George Robb, a familiar voice in the skeptic community, shares his insights on critical thinking and interactive games. He delves into the fascinating debate surrounding interstellar technosignatures and the need for scientific rigor. The discussion also touches on groundbreaking advancements in CRISPR technology, including delivery systems that could revolutionize genetic editing. Additionally, Robb explores the dynamics of romantic attraction influenced by mental health, creating a blend of science, humor, and engaging dialogue throughout.
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Real Technosignatures To Watch For
- Researchers propose four credible technosignatures for interstellar objects: acceleration anomalies, strange spectra, odd shapes, and transmissions.
- Major unexplained subtle motions are usually natural, but dramatic non-gravitational maneuvers would be convincing evidence of artificial activity.
Sexless Seeds Could Democratize Crops
- Apomixis lets plants form seeds without fertilization, producing clonal offspring that reproduce hybrid traits reliably.
- This could lower seed costs and enable diverse, locally developed cultivars, reducing monopoly pressure from big agritech firms.
Consider Multiple Causes For Shared Disorders
- Recognize that partner similarity in psychiatric diagnosis can arise from genetics, shared environment, and stress exposure.
- When assessing couples, consider diathesis-stress interactions and social selection as plausible mechanisms.