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Jim Al-Khalili

Iraqi-British theoretical physicist and science populariser. He is professor of theoretical physics and chair in the public engagement in science at the University of Surrey.

Top 10 podcasts with Jim Al-Khalili

Ranked by the Snipd community
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93 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 6min

#119 Jim Al-Khalili - The Strange World of Quantum Physics

Jim Al-Khalili, an Iraqi-British theoretical physicist and popular science communicator, dives into the bizarre world of quantum physics. He unveils the paradoxes of quantum mechanics, touching on the double-slit experiment's implications. The discussion explores bird navigation through quantum biology and critiques common misconceptions tying quantum principles to consciousness. Al-Khalili also grapples with the relationship between time, entropy, and reality, raising profound questions about our understanding of the universe.
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32 snips
Apr 5, 2023 • 47min

Will we ever have a fundamental theory of life and consciousness?

Physics professors Jim Al-Khalili and Sara Imari Walker discuss the emergence of life from non-living matter and the challenges of understanding consciousness. They explore concepts such as entropy, proton tunneling in DNA, quantum consciousness, and the role of information theory in understanding life. They also delve into the evolution of objects and theories like quantum biology and non-equilibrium physics that could unravel the mysteries of life and consciousness.
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26 snips
May 9, 2022 • 1h 3min

#471 - Jim Al-Khalili - Physics Is Far Stranger Than You Think

Jim Al-Khalili, a Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Surrey, shares insights into the bizarre nature of reality. He discusses why you can’t walk through walls and the critical matter-antimatter imbalance after the Big Bang. Jim explores the scientific journey, the significance of evidence over opinion, and the challenges of reconciling quantum mechanics with general relativity. He also tackles the debate over Mars exploration and the ethical risks of advanced technologies, all while advocating for intellectual humility in a polarizing digital age.
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18 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 1h 18min

Fri vilja

Robert Sapolsky, professor i biologi och känd för sitt arbete kring stress och beteende, och Jim Al-Khalili, professor i fysik och populärvetenskapsförfattare, utforskar den komplexa frågan om fri vilja. De diskuterar hur våra beslut kan vara påverkade av hjärnans aktivitet och miljöfaktorer, vilket ställer frågan om verklig kontroll över våra handlingar på sin spets. Genom att koppla samman neurovetenskap och kvantfysik belyser de utmaningarna i att förstå moraliskt ansvar i ett kanske deterministiskt universum.
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Mar 28, 2025 • 25min

The biggest unsolved mysteries of the quantum realm

Join theoretical physicist Jim Al-Khalili, an expert from the University of Surrey and BBC Radio 4 star, as he delves into the captivating world of quantum physics. He explores the historical controversies that have sparked debates over the past century and the profound implications of quantum theory on our perception of reality. Discover the wonders of quantum entanglement, its potential for future technologies like quantum computing, and the intriguing possibility that birds may navigate via quantum processes. Unravel the mysteries that leave even scientists fascinated!
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Feb 28, 2024 • 42min

Archive: The Joy of Science, with Jim Al-Khalili

In this discussion, theoretical physicist and science communicator Jim Al-Khalili shares his insights on the transformative power of science. He tackles misconceptions about science being elitist, emphasizing its role in enhancing our appreciation of reality. The conversation navigates the blurry lines of truth in today's digital age and the importance of critical thinking amidst misinformation. Al-Khalili also highlights the spiritual joy derived from scientific discovery, encouraging openness to evolving beliefs and understanding complex concepts.
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Feb 6, 2024 • 45min

Discover the Joy of Science w/ Jim Al-Khalili (#392)

Jim Al-Khalili, a theoretical physicist, discusses the connection between science and poetry, the scientific method variations, and the need to temper expectations in physics. They explore the relationship between knowledge and wisdom and the role of models in science, addressing concerns about politicians misusing the phrase 'follow the science'. They emphasize the importance of questioning scientific claims and highlight the sobering realization that there is still much more to understand in theoretical physics.
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Jan 4, 2024 • 59min

185 - Jim Al-Khalili: The Fundamentals of Quantum Biology

Jim Al-Khalili, a theoretical physicist and author from the University of Surrey, delves into the intriguing world of quantum biology. He explains how animals like the European Robin navigate using quantum mechanics, shedding light on concepts like quantum tunneling and decoherence. The discussion also touches on the connection between quantum phenomena and biological processes, as well as how these might influence evolution. Al-Khalili's insights provide a fascinating bridge between the realms of physics and the complexities of life.
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Jun 3, 2022 • 42min

The Joy of Science, with Jim Al-Khalili

Join the insightful Jim Al-Khalili, a theoretical physicist and popular science communicator, as he explores the intersection of science and everyday life. He discusses Plato's allegory of the cave, emphasizing the journey from ignorance to knowledge. The conversation delves into the challenges of misinformation in the digital age and the importance of scientific literacy. Al-Khalili shares his experiences bridging science with personal beliefs and highlights the enriching joy that scientific discovery brings to understanding our universe.
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Jan 29, 2021 • 59min

Jim Al-Khalili on The World According to Physics

Join Jim Al-Khalili, a renowned professor of physics and BBC science communicator, as he delves into the essential pillars of modern physics: quantum theory, relativity, and thermodynamics. He explains why understanding these concepts is key to grasping our universe. Discover the intersection of physics and philosophy, the revolutionary future of quantum technologies, and how theoretical physics contributes to our battle against COVID-19. Al-Khalili emphasizes the importance of collaboration in science and the need to inspire curiosity in future generations.

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