To The Best Of Our Knowledge

Jenny Odell, a writer and author of 'Saving Time,' discusses our cultural relationship with time and its detrimental effects on society. David Rooney, a former curator at the Royal Observatory, shares fascinating insights into the history of clocks. They explore the impact of clock time on personal well-being, rethinking productivity, and the intricate connection between time and identity. Both guests urge a shift towards a more natural understanding of time that respects deeper rhythms and encourages a healthier lifestyle.

In this intriguing discussion, physicist Marcelo Gleiser, geologist Bob Hazen, and science writer Phil Ball tackle the enigmatic question: What is life? They explore the necessity for a new theory of life, emphasizing the interplay of evolution, existence, and geology. The conversation touches on the importance of reconnecting children with nature for a deeper understanding of life sciences. They also delve into the complexities of consciousness and identity, raising thought-provoking ethical questions about our evolving notions of life in the 21st century.

In this conversation, Nancy Marie Brown, a Viking history scholar, explains why Icelanders believe in elves, linking folklore to environmental conservation. Deborah Harkness, a professor and author, shares insights on how magic and mythology intertwine in her All Souls trilogy. Tabitha Stanmore, an expert on witchcraft, discusses the historical significance of cunning folk in Tudor England, and the podcast explores how beliefs in magic were once part of daily life, inviting listeners to rediscover the ordinary magic that still exists around us.

Lulu Miller, a science and nature reporter known for her work on Radiolab, joins Dacher Keltner, a UC Berkeley psychologist uncovering the science of awe, and Jennifer Michael Hecht, a poetic historian exploring existence. They delve into rediscovering wonder through childhood perspectives and the transformative power of awe in daily life. The conversation highlights how simple moments can spark curiosity and connection, while poetry serves as a bridge to meaning in a chaotic world, enriching our experiences and relationships.

Ramtin Arablouei and Rund Abdelfatah, co-hosts of NPR's ThruLine, team up with New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie and artist Charmaine Minniefield. They dive into the contentious debates surrounding critical race theory and how history is told in America. Bouie speaks on dismantling 'civic myths', while Minniefield shares insights on Praise Houses as vital symbols of Black history. The discussion highlights the importance of diverse perspectives and the need for nuanced narratives to understand the complexities of America’s past.

In the world of internet influencers and YouTube stars, it’s not enough to be ordinary anymore. You need to be special. But where did this craze for personal branding come from? Why are we so obsessed with ourselves? To understand this cult of the self, we need to go back to 19th century spiritual movements and the rise of the huckster — and also the myth of rugged individualism. But if we’re always shouting “Me me me,” what are we losing? What has it cost us?Original Air Date: February 03, 2024Interviews In This Hour: If nobody sees you online, do you exist? — How personal branding became an American religion — Why rugged individualism is a dangerous myth — The philosophers who invented the modern selfGuests: Angelo Bautista, Tara Isabella Burton, Alissa Quart, Andrea WulfNever want to miss an episode? Subscribe to the podcast.Want to hear more from us, including extended interviews and favorites from the archive? Subscribe to our newsletter.

In a thought-provoking discussion, astrophysicist Michelle Thaller shares her journey through grief while finding solace in the cosmos. Filmmaker Jon Halperin opens up about the creation of his documentary on infinity, exploring its paradoxes and emotional impact. Meanwhile, neuroscientist Kieran Fox intertwines Einstein’s spiritual beliefs with the melancholy beauty of time and existence. Together, they tackle heavy themes like the vastness of the universe, our place within it, and how grief intertwines with cosmic wonder.

Jennifer Ackerman, a bird expert and author, dives into the mystical world of owls, unraveling their behavior and the myths surrounding them. Mark Obmasik shares the thrilling highs and lows of competitive bird-watching, highlighting the dedication it takes to engage in a Big Year challenge. Christopher Benfey reflects on the cultural significance of hummingbirds in the 19th century, illustrating their impact on art and spirituality. Together, they explore the passion and obsession that avian life inspires in people.

Rubin Naiman, a clinical psychologist specializing in sleep and dreams, joins forces with Roz Chast, a cartoonist renowned for her dream-themed memoir, Kelly Bulkeley, a researcher on the spirituality of dreaming, and Annabel Abbs-Streets, a writer exploring creativity born from sleeplessness. They dive deep into how embracing our dreams can enhance self-awareness and human connections. From combating the dream loss crisis to unraveling the spiritual significance of dreams, this lively conversation unveils the transformative potential of our night selves.

Sebastian Junger, an acclaimed journalist and author, shares his reflections on mortality and the afterlife, stemming from his own near-death experiences. Sam Parnia, an intensive care doctor at NYU, reveals groundbreaking research on near-death phenomena and how science is reshaping our understanding of life and death. They explore harrowing personal stories, the implications of consciousness during dying, and the transformative insights gained from encounters with deceased loved ones, prompting us to rethink our existential beliefs.