Into the Impossible With Brian Keating

Steven Pinker, a renowned cognitive psychologist and author, delves into the intricacies of common knowledge and its impact on society. He explains how misconceptions can lead to social discord and explores the tension between expert knowledge and public perception. Pinker discusses the role of common knowledge in everything from markets to cancel culture, highlighting how social norms can dictate individual behavior. He also sheds light on how AI struggles with common knowledge, emphasizing its unpredictable effects in technology and society.

Dive into a riveting exploration of science, skepticism, and the allure of conspiracy theories. Brian and Julian discuss NASA, the moon landing, and personal encounters with Terrence Howard. They tackle the credibility crisis in science, fueled by misinformation and shifting trust in experts. The conversation also navigates the fierce competition of historical Antarctic exploration and intriguing insights about dark matter and gravity. Expect a blend of humor, insight, and candid reflections on the struggles within scientific discourse.

In this engaging conversation, Brian Keating, a Chancellor's Distinguished Professor of Physics at UC San Diego and author, shares insights drawn from his interactions with Nobel Prize winners. He introduces the 'Keating Test' for AI, emphasizing that communication skills are vital for scientific impact. They discuss striking a balance between focus and curiosity, the art of guarding your time against distractions, and the importance of questioning established norms. Expect a blend of humor and profound lessons on what it takes to achieve greatness in both science and life.

Niayesh Afshordi, a professor of astrophysics at the Perimeter Institute and co-author of "Battle of the Big Bang," challenges our understanding of the universe’s origins. He questions the Big Bang as the definitive start of time and explores the intriguing concept of singularities, where our current theories break down. The discussion dives into the diverse interpretations of the Big Bang, the unresolved black hole information paradox, and the importance of observational science. Afshordi also highlights how funding influences scientific exploration.

Riz Virk, an MIT graduate, gaming entrepreneur, and author of The Simulation Hypothesis, invites listeners to ponder a startling question: Is our reality a simulated construct? He delves into quantum mechanics, AI, and how ancient wisdom traditions align with modern theories about the universe. The conversation explores the concept of déjà vu as a glitch in the matrix, the ethical implications of creating realistic simulations, and the philosophical intersections of science and spirituality, all while challenging our perceptions of existence.

Fred Hoyle, who famously coined the term 'Big Bang,' paradoxically despised the theory it represented while advocating for the steady state universe. Explore his groundbreaking contributions to stellar nucleosynthesis and the fascinating 'Hoyle state' essential for life. Delve into the injustices he faced, notably his exclusion from the Nobel Prize. The discussion also touches on Hoyle's daring speculations around panspermia and cosmic design, showcasing a life defined by scientific courage and intellectual integrity.

David Deutsch, a renowned physicist and author, dives into the future of technology and consciousness. He challenges our understanding of artificial intelligence, suggesting that machine experiences could mimic human thoughts. Deutsch explores the philosophical implications of identity and personal experience, even when physical forms change. He also shares insights on creativity in overcoming technological challenges and reflects on the significance of mathematical structures in understanding the universe. Plus, he discusses the enduring impact of memetics on cultural narratives.

Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist leading the Galileo Project, teams up with Michael Shermer, founder of Skeptic magazine, for a riveting discussion about the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS. They explore its unusual chemical signature and trajectory, fueling exciting speculations about potential alien technology. Loeb proposes it might be engineered rather than natural, while Shermer critically examines the evidence supporting such a bold claim. Their debate weaves through the complexities of science, skepticism, and the quest for extraterrestrial life.

Thomas Hertog, a collaborator of Stephen Hawking and author of "On the Origin of Time," delves into groundbreaking theories about the universe. He discusses the radical no-boundary proposal, suggesting a cosmos with no fixed beginnings and evolving laws. Hertog challenges the multiverse concept and emphasizes the importance of the observer in cosmology. He explores how time may emerge from deeper realities and the implications of the holographic principle. He also highlights upcoming experiments that could reshape our understanding of the universe.

In this enlightening discussion, Ben Shapiro, a prominent conservative commentator and author of 'Lions and Scavengers,' delves into the duality of human nature, likening individuals to lions and scavengers. He tackles the dangers of envy in today's society and its amplification through social media, arguing it's a greater threat than AGI. Shapiro also critiques the idolization of historical figures and explores responsibility in the face of personal challenges, urging listeners to engage actively in their communities against societal decay.