
Julian Barbour
British physicist known for his work on the nature of time and shape dynamics. He proposes that time is not fundamental and that the universe is built from ratios.
Top 5 podcasts with Julian Barbour
Ranked by the Snipd community

43 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 2h 22min
When Physics Gets Rid of Time and Quantum Theory | Julian Barbour
Julian Barbour, a British physicist renowned for his innovative ideas on time and shape dynamics, explores mind-bending concepts about the universe. He argues that time might be an illusion, suggesting we rethink quantum mechanics without traditional principles. Barbour introduces a relational perspective, emphasizing ratios over conventional notions of space and time. He delves into the significance of shapes in existence, challenging established views and urging a holistic understanding of reality and consciousness.

43 snips
Nov 16, 2024 • 1h 59min
Julian Barbour: The Physicist Who Says Time Doesn't Exist
Julian Barbour, a pioneering physicist, shares his groundbreaking ideas on time as an emergent property rather than a fundamental entity. He discusses how time can be perceived as a sequence of static states and the influence of thinkers like Mach and Leibniz on this view. The conversation delves into Mach's principle and its role in linking motion and mass, while also critiquing traditional cosmological models. Barbour emphasizes the intricate relationship between complexity, entropy, and the universe's evolving nature, challenging established physics and inviting listeners to rethink reality.

14 snips
Jul 19, 2023 • 27min
How Do Humans Differ from Other Animals?
How are humans and animals different? Physically, humans and animals seem similar. Mentally, humans seem so superior. What's so special about human nature?
Featuring interviews with Colin Blakemore, Barry Smith, Nicholas Humphrey, Jared Diamond, and Julian Barbour.
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8 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 1h 54min
Ep 224: Shapes, Time, and Holism - by Julian Barbour
Julian Barbour, an independent British physicist and author renowned for his provocative ideas on time and mechanics, delves into fascinating topics. He discusses how Newtonian mechanics can offer a fundamental perspective on space and time, challenges traditional views on entropy, and introduces the concept of the Janus point. Barbour explores the relationship between shapes, energy, and complexity, suggesting that understanding particle interactions could reshape our grasp of the universe. His insights prompt a reevaluation of conventional physics and its profound implications.

5 snips
Sep 15, 2024 • 1h 55min
#35 – Julian Barbour and Samuel Kuypers: The Nature of Time
Julian Barbour, a renowned physicist known for his exploration of time, joins theoretical physicist Samuel Kuypers in a captivating discussion. They delve into the idea that time is not absolute, but shaped by moments. The duo contrasts Newton’s views with modern theories, exploring shape dynamics and cosmic evolution. They tackle entropy and the universe's heat death, while pondering free will versus determinism. Barbour's unexpected passion for Shakespeare adds a creative twist, enriching their philosophical reflections on existence and reality.