James Evans

James Evans, a leading expert on collective intelligence and knowledge construction, sheds light on the intricate dynamics of scientific innovation. He discusses how successful scientists often struggle to explain their methods and the importance of studying science scientifically. The conversation delves into the role of surprise in experimentation, the bias of funding models favoring older researchers, and how collaboration can impact scientific disagreements. Evans emphasizes that embracing freshness and diversity is crucial for breakthrough innovations.

James Evans, a University of Chicago sociologist and data scientist, discusses the limitations of training AI to think like humans. He argues that this approach stifles scientific discovery and advocates for the creation of 'cognitive aliens'—AIs that think differently to unlock breakthroughs. Evans explores how expanding AI’s sensory capabilities can lead to new forms of innovation and emphasizes the need for a shift in AI development to overcome biases in research. He also addresses AI's paradoxical role in both hindering and enhancing scientific inquiry.

In this episode:00:47 AI can boost research productivity — at what cost?Research article: Hao et al.10:10 Research HighlightsNature: Ancient ‘snowball’ Earth had frigidly briny seasNature: Putting immune cells into ‘night mode’ reduces heart-attack damage12:41 JWST images are full of red dots, what are they?Nature: Rusakov et al.Subscribe to Nature Briefing, an unmissable daily round-up of science news, opinion and analysis free in your inbox every weekday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Evans, co-founder and CEO of CommandBar, shares his journey in building a successful SaaS business. He discusses using product demonstration to show value and assess fit, the struggles and challenges of founders, book recommendations, and the benefits of angel investing.

James Evans, Researcher on designing innovative research ecosystems, discusses the importance of diversity in driving innovation. Topics include dimensions of diversity, AI's role in diversifying scientific ideas, and the potential for AI to replace human scientists. The conversation also delves into abduction in scientific reasoning, embracing diversity in innovation, and the balance between disciplinary silos and crossbreeding for innovation in universities.