Send us a textWhere do scientists find beauty in their work and why does it matter to them? Immunologist Dr. Mark Painter argues that what’s central here is not simply the visual or sensory beauty he encounters in the phenomena he studies, but the beauty of understanding that science affords.For the full interview see: ttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2043099/12547248 For the broader project, visit: https://www.beautyatwork.net Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BeautyatWorkPodcastSupport the show

Yale psychologist Dr. Frank Keil discusses the importance of fostering wonder in education, the impact of modern technology on children's understanding, and the challenges scientists face in maintaining curiosity in academic environments.

Dr. Marcia Otto, a public health expert, discusses her transition from theoretical physics to epidemiology, finding beauty in her work. Topics include applying physics to solve real-world problems, quantifying lead exposure in children, and inspiring students to pursue science and public health research.

Award-winning physicist and author Dr. Marcelo Gleiser discusses why pursuing a 'theory of everything' in science can be misleading. He explores the complexities of asymmetries in nature, the limits of human perception in understanding the universe, and the significance of personal experiences in defining reality. Delving into the caution of a definitive Theory of Everything, he emphasizes the evolving nature of science and the balance between awe and the limitations of equating science with absolute truth.

Award-winning educator Dr. Punya Mishra discusses the importance of beauty in science education to nurture wonder. He explores integrating aesthetics to cultivate curiosity, inquiry, and joy in learning, emphasizing the significance of aesthetic learning in education.

Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner discusses his research on awe, its relation to beauty and science, and how it varies across cultures. He explores the cognitive and emotional aspects of awe, the eight wonders of life, the role of food in awe, and how curiosity and wonder drive scientific discovery.

Luke Burgis, entrepreneur and author, discusses René Girard's theory of mimetic desire in relation to status and success. Topics include the impact of mimetic desire on actions in Silicon Valley and academia, the complexities of status and prestige, competition vs collaboration in science and technology, the role of beauty in driving individuals, and the link between beauty, desire, and vocational fulfillment.

Physicist Dr. Ard Louis from Oxford discusses symmetry in nature, exploring its influence on evolution and the formation of complex structures. He dives into the concept of beauty in physics, emphasizing the role of symmetry and simplicity in theoretical and mathematical structures, highlighting their impact on scientific progress.

Neuroscientist Dr. Anjan Chatterjee challenges the nature vs nurture dichotomy in beauty perception, emphasizing that 'beauty is in the brain of the beholder.' He discusses the influence of genetics and culture on our perception of beauty, the interconnected brain systems shaping aesthetic experiences, and how exposure to different cultures shapes perceptions of attractiveness.

Dr. Luca Cottini, a cultural historian, discusses how beauty influences innovation, drawing on examples from Italian culture. Topics include the impact of beauty on company philosophies, contrasting Italian and American approaches to innovation, and the role of tradition and beauty in organizations and science.