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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.

Join Susannah Breslin, a journalist focusing on the sex industry; Lowry Pressly, a Stanford philosopher; and Carl Öhman, a political science professor from Sweden, as they navigate the intricate world of personal data. They discuss the implications of data ownership and privacy, especially after death. Explore how technology changes grief processes, the ethics of digital remains, and the evolution of privacy in a surveillance-heavy society. The conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own data legacy in a rapidly digitizing world.

Join hip-hop artist Dxtr Spits, who promotes the How Men Cry movement, as he discusses the importance of emotional expression for men. Neuropsychiatrist Michael Trimble unpacks the fascinating neuroscience behind our tears, revealing why we cry and the unique role it plays in human connection. Theater artist Jen Plants shares insights on portraying genuine emotions on stage, emphasizing how tears can create powerful bonds with audiences. They explore societal pressures around vulnerability, making for a thought-provoking and heartfelt conversation.

Join A. J. Jacobs, a journalist famed for his quirky lifestyle experiments and puzzle passion, alongside Anna Shechtman, a crossword constructor and author focusing on gender in puzzle-making. They delve into the evolving love for word games like Wordle, exploring how puzzles became a comforting distraction during chaotic times. Discover the artistry in puzzle creation, the joy of collaborative problem-solving, and the heartwarming stories of how crosswords provide solace and inclusivity for many.

David Olson, a neuroscientist pioneering non-hallucinogenic treatments, joins psychiatrist Charles Raison and retired psychologist Rachel Harris to explore the dual nature of psychedelics in mental health. They debate whether profound experiences or molecular changes drive healing. The trio discusses the evolution of psychiatric practices, the potential of psychedelics versus traditional antidepressants, and the spiritual wisdom from underground healers. Engaging personal stories reveal the transformative power of psychedelics and the importance of women's voices in this burgeoning field.

Join Honey Rose, a TikTok witch known for her hoodoo practices, Rivka Galchen, author of a novel about witchcraft in history, Chris Gosden, an archaeologist revealing the culture of magic, and Quan Barry, who explores teenage witches. They dive into modern witchcraft on TikTok, the historical witch hunts of the past, and the complexities of cultural appropriation in spirituality. The conversation reflects on empowerment through witchcraft, connecting today's practices with centuries of tradition and offering a fresh perspective on belief and magic.