The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe

Delve into peristalsis and how birds use it differently in swallowing. Explore the controversial idea of dimming the sun to combat climate change and the risks involved. Learn about LLMs and their troubling potential to misinform in medical contexts. Is it time to pause the development of superintelligence? Discover the lore behind a local ghost story while debating its authenticity. Lastly, find out if more COVID vaccine doses could increase infection risk, backed by intriguing data.

This discussion dives into why people cling to misinformation, revealing ties to signaling and authoritarianism. The resurgence of measles highlights public health challenges in low vaccination areas. A Supreme Court case raises questions about therapy regulations. There's exciting news about the Sun's activity increasing, and a speculative wormhole theory is critically examined. The panel also tackles logical fallacies, critiques a TikTok misunderstanding about Earth's atmosphere, and plays a fun insect-themed quiz.

David Kyle Johnson, a philosophy professor, joins to delve into the fascinating world of reasoning. He clarifies the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning, highlighting how each plays a crucial role in scientific thought. Johnson explains deduction's guarantee of conclusions and induction's reliance on probability. He also discusses how hypothesis generation, Bayes' theorem, and the nuances of fallacies impact medical reasoning. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey through the logic underpinning science!

In this discussion, Lee Mosbacher, a venture capital investor with a background in physics, shares insights on the newly passed Genius Act, which opens the door for retirement capital to flow into high-risk investments like venture capital and crypto. He highlights both the potential opportunities and risks involved. The conversation also touches upon fascinating scientific discoveries, including the redrawing of the human family tree and potential autoimmune links to ALS, intertwining skepticism and investment topics for an engaging dialogue.

This discussion dives into false claims linking acetaminophen to autism, debunking myths with scientific evidence. Discover the latest in NASA's mission preparations for Artemis II and the exciting advancements in quantum computing. The panel explores how AI can unintentionally lower ethical standards, leading to increased dishonesty. Delve into creative techniques for detecting superheavy elements and the rise of AI-driven scams. Plus, enjoy a fun segment identifying the sound of molten metal pouring into water!

Dive into the curious world of conspiracy physics and the psychology behind crank theories. Explore the unsettling impact of cancer misinformation and how evidence-based messaging can help. Discover groundbreaking technology in nuclear propulsion alongside ancient mummification practices that date back 14,000 years. Engage in a discussion about research ethics, victim-blaming fallacies, and play a fun game of Science or Fiction with intriguing topics. It's a blend of science, skepticism, and a dash of humor!

Dive into the discovery of Earth's quasi-moon and the fascinating concept of microbots powered by light, revolutionizing drug delivery. Caution is urged around Tylenol's links to autism, while the evolution of musical preferences showcases generational shifts. Explore the innovative wearable device allowing silent communication, and wrestle with the alarming decline in science education scores. Finally, enjoy playful insights into otters and groundbreaking discussions on gravitational waves that may confirm Stephen Hawking's theories.

George Robb, a familiar voice in the skeptic community, shares his insights on critical thinking and interactive games. He delves into the fascinating debate surrounding interstellar technosignatures and the need for scientific rigor. The discussion also touches on groundbreaking advancements in CRISPR technology, including delivery systems that could revolutionize genetic editing. Additionally, Robb explores the dynamics of romantic attraction influenced by mental health, creating a blend of science, humor, and engaging dialogue throughout.

Discover the fascinating world of fast radio bursts from galaxies far away and the groundbreaking biochar solution to food waste. Learn about the humorous mispronunciations of Uranus while debating chiropractic practices. Delve into the alarming decline of reading for pleasure in America and explore skepticism surrounding paranormal beliefs. Plus, enjoy a fun guessing game of mystery sounds with listeners and debunk viral myths about mammograms, all while embracing the joy of learning in various skills.

In this engaging discussion, the hosts delve into the fascinating intersection of historical alchemy and modern science, exploring the unlikely fusion of mercury into gold. They also highlight the surprising adoption of AI by older Americans, showcasing how tech engages different generations. Groundbreaking advancements in non-surgical vision correction and semi-solid state batteries for electric vehicles are discussed, alongside the complexities of online discourse and navigating logical fallacies. The fun guessing game 'Who's That Noisy?' adds an entertaining twist!