To The Best Of Our Knowledge

Brian Stone, an expert in urban planning and climate change, discusses the challenges of rebuilding after disasters in the age of permacrisis. Lorraine Daston, a renowned science historian, explores evolving perceptions of responsibility regarding climate events. Annalee Newitz brings a creative lens, highlighting innovative design solutions for coastal flooding. They emphasize the power of storytelling as a means of resilience and inspire listeners to rethink how we prepare and respond to ongoing environmental challenges.

Americans used to believe that news anchors were basically reporting the truth. But in recent years, trust in journalism has largely evaporated. And that’s not an accident as the news media have been weaponized. So what can journalists do to regain the public trust?Original Air Date: June 15, 2024Interviews In This Hour: Journalist Ezra Klein on podcasting, pundits and when to take yourself out of the news — Reclaiming journalism in a fast-changing media landscape — How a hyperlocal newsletter is redefining the ‘news’Guests: Ezra Klein, Deborah Blum, Rob GurwittNever 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.

Pico Iyer, a renowned writer and essayist specializing in travel and mindfulness, shares his insights on the transformative power of silent retreats. He emphasizes the importance of embracing solitude to find inner peace amidst chaos. Joining him is Monica Gagliano, an evolutionary ecologist who explores plant intelligence and communication. Together, they delve into the profound connections between nature and humanity, discussing the wisdom of plants and the necessity of epistemological humility in understanding our world. It's a captivating deep dive into introspection and interconnection.

Roland Griffiths, a pioneering psychedelic researcher, discusses how psilocybin can ease the fear of death, especially in terminal patients. Lou Lukas, a palliative medicine physician, shares insights on integrating psychedelic therapy into end-of-life care. Anthony Bossis, a clinical psychologist, highlights the transformative, mystical experiences that psychedelics evoke, reshaping perceptions of mortality. Together, they explore how psychedelics can foster acceptance, alleviate existential anxiety, and encourage meaningful discussions about life and legacy.

Crystal Wilkinson, former Poet Laureate of Kentucky, shares how ancestral recipes connect families to their heritage. Amy Nozuku Matato discusses the nostalgic power of mangoes in her family's history. Christina Ward delves into the intersection of food and faith, highlighting how culinary practices shape community identity. Together, they explore how flavors evoke emotions, the importance of preserving culinary traditions, and the intricate ties between food, memory, and belonging.

Before family photos, or school pictures or Instagram, there were hand-drawn and painted portraits. Throughout the ages, portrait artists have captured expressions and personalities on canvas or paper, and those who view the picture interpret this “likeness” in their own way. We talk with a philosopher, a musician and a novelist about the role of portraits through history, and how we see ourselves —and others — through these deeply personal images.Original Air Date: September 23, 2023Interviews In This Hour: Re-envisioning history: A journey through Black portraiture — The painting tells a story: 'The Marriage Portrait' author on love, loss and layers of meaning in the Italian Renaissance — Portraits of perfection: Discovering Frans Hals' legacy in HaarlemGuests: Peter Brathwaite, Maggie O'Farrell, Steven Nadler, Thijs Gerbrandy, Norbert MiddelkoopNever 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.

Sam Lee, a renowned folk singer and conservationist, and Leigh Ann Henion, an acclaimed nature writer, dive into the beauty of nocturnal life. They discuss the impact of light pollution on our connection to nature and share the transformative experience of nighttime concerts with nightingales. The duo highlights the need to reclaim darkness as a restorative force, emphasizing forgotten traditions of nighttime walks in the woods and the rich, emotional ties between music and the natural world. Together, they inspire a renewed appreciation for the wonders of the night.

John Oakes, author of "The Fast," dives into fasting as a means of self-discovery and cultural critique. Psychoanalyst Adam Phillips discusses the virtues and shame tied to giving up, challenging the stigma of surrender. Maggie Jackson shares insights on embracing uncertainty, highlighting its potential for personal growth in a world obsessed with certainty. Together, they explore how letting go may be the most courageous act, encouraging listeners to navigate the complexities of surrender in a society that often equates success with relentless striving.

Zoë Schlanger, a science writer for The Atlantic and author of 'The Light Eaters,' joins renowned forest ecologist Suzanne Simard, known for her groundbreaking work on the 'wood wide web.' They dive into the surprising intelligence of plants, including their ability to communicate distress signals and adapt to their environment. The conversation also highlights the vital roles of 'mother trees' in supporting forest ecosystems and emphasizes rethinking our ethical relationship with nature. Discover how plants are much smarter and more interconnected than we ever imagined!

Walter Scheirer, a computer scientist at Notre Dame and author, Megan O’Gieblyn, a writer examining technology and philosophy, and Sougwen Chung, an artist collaborating with AI, delve into the limits and capabilities of artificial intelligence. They discuss whether AI can possess consciousness or creativity, and explore the implications of deep fakes on society. The trio also contemplates the future of AI in art and examines the emotional connections humans form with technology, raising profound questions about its role in our lives.