Matt O’Dowd

David Wolpert, a researcher known for the monotheism theorem, leads a captivating discussion on free will's complexities. Cognitive scientist Donald Hoffman explores how consciousness interacts with free will, while AI researcher Joscha Bach delves into decision-making from a cognitive perspective. Philosopher Wolfgang Smith links free will with love and the divine. Bernardo Kastrup challenges the very notion of free will, presenting a deterministic universe. Quantum physicist Nicolas Gisin offers insights into indeterminism, enriching the dialogue surrounding agency and choice.

Join physicist Matt O'Dowd, a professor and host of 'PBS Space Time,' as he unpacks the enigmatic Tunguska event of 1908. He delves into theories linking tiny black holes to this cosmic mystery and examines their potential catastrophic effects on Earth. The conversation shifts to exploring primordial black holes and their whimsical journey through the universe, intertwining science with imaginative storytelling. O'Dowd also reflects on the profound connections between black holes and stars, likening them to cosmic best friends.

Extragalactic astrophysicist and host of PBS Space Time, Matt O'Dowd, discusses supermassive black holes, Planck lengths, and the gravitational wave background. Topics include falling into a black hole, exploring supermassive black holes, gravitational lenses, dark energy mysteries, and cosmic expansion. The conversation delves into the limits of measuring space distances and the endless possibilities of human inquiry into the cosmos.

Can we use gravitational lensing to view distant planets? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice explore black holes, quasars, entropy, and more with astrophysicist and host of PBS Space Time, Matt O’Dowd.NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free.Thanks to our Patrons Kelly Madison, Shaun Moats, Vascked, Irene Campbell, Joseph Brown, and Guillermo Leal for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/J. da Silva, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

Astrophysicist Matt O’Dowd, photographer Babak Tafreshi, and national park ranger Bradley Mills join Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice to discuss dark sky efforts, light pollution, and great locations for stargazing in the US. They also explore the impact of light pollution on animals, the fascination with astronomy, and ways to encourage stargazing. Interviewing park ranger Bradley Mills, they learn about Great Bay National Park's extensive astronomy program and the importance of staying current as an amateur astronomer.