The Next Big Idea

Steven Pinker, a Harvard cognitive scientist and bestselling author, delves into the intricacies of common knowledge and rationality. He explains how the hidden force of common knowledge shapes societal norms and behaviors, influencing everything from financial bubbles to personal relationships. Pinker reveals why smart individuals might still embrace irrational beliefs, highlighting the impact of vivid narratives on decision-making. His insights offer a path to improve societal rationality through education and critical thinking, underscoring the tension between logic and mythological beliefs.

Join Gaurav Suri, a researcher and co-author of The Emergent Mind, along with Jay McClelland, a renowned Stanford psychology professor and neural network pioneer. They dive into fascinating topics like how complexity arises from simple systems, the nature of intelligence in both humans and AI, and the implications of consciousness in machines. The discussion moves from distributed representations to the limits of human memory versus AI learning, leaving listeners to ponder the future of intelligence.

Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist at NYU, reveals startling insights from his bestseller, 'The Anxious Generation.' He connects the surge in teen depression rates to the rise of social media and smartphones since 2012. As he discusses the harm social media inflicts on childhood development, he emphasizes the need for collective action from parents and educators. Haidt also critiques the tech industry's impact on youth and advocates for protective regulations, pointing out the significant gender differences in mental health experiences amid this digital landscape.

Arthur C. Brooks, an economist and Harvard Business School professor, shares his journey from corporate despair to happiness guru. He discusses how prioritizing connections over status leads to fulfillment. Brooks reveals why smart individuals often struggle with happiness and introduces a simple test to uncover personal weaknesses. He advocates for viewing life as a startup, encouraging proactive choices and genuine relationships. Dive into the paradox of generosity and its role in happiness, alongside insights on how exercise and diet impact mood.

Join Ethan Mollick, a Wharton professor and AI enthusiast, and Steven Johnson, Editorial Director at Google Labs, as they dive into the future of writing. Discover how Steven penned 40,000 words in just 72 hours using AI! The duo discusses the evolving concept of books and how they may transform into interactive experiences for readers. They also explore the balance between AI-generated ideas and human creativity, questioning whether tech can truly match our writing prowess. Strap in for a fascinating look at AI's impact on storytelling!

Sebastian Junger, bestselling author and Oscar-nominated filmmaker, shares his gripping near-death experience after a ruptured aneurysm. He reflects on the fragility of life, the deep existential questions raised by his brush with death, and the profound thoughts about the afterlife that followed. Junger also contrasts the recognition of famous authors with the unsung bravery of journalists in perilous situations. Delving into themes of fatherhood and the significance of blood donation, he inspires listeners to ponder mortality and community.

Laura Huang, a distinguished professor of management at Northeastern University, dives deep into the science of intuition and decision-making. She reveals that intuition is not just a random occurrence but a skill that successful individuals hone over time. Listeners learn practical techniques to enhance their gut feelings, like the coin flip method, and discover the unexpected benefits of reading fiction to strengthen emotional understanding. Huang emphasizes the importance of self-trust and the transformative power of 'jolt moments' that can redirect our life paths.

Sam Keen, a science writer and author of 'Dinner with King Tut', takes listeners on a thrilling journey into experimental archaeology. He discusses how rogue archaeologists are reviving ancient civilizations through hands-on activities like brewing beer and mummifying animals. Keen explores the culinary wonders of the past at the Buckland Club, featuring bizarre dishes like badger ham, and dives into the complexities of Roman cuisine. The conversation highlights the passion behind experimental archaeology, encouraging a deeper connection with history and our shared human experience.

Emily Falk, a neuroscientist at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the intricacies of our brain's value calculations. She discusses how understanding these subconscious processes can help bridge the gap between our desired selves and our daily choices. Falk explores the powerful influence social norms have on our behaviors and self-perception, and shares insights on using accountability partners to boost motivation. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and values affirmation to align our actions with core beliefs, fostering both personal growth and community empathy.

In this conversation, Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and author of Super Agers, dives into vital health topics. He discusses how to optimize sleep, especially for older adults, and the alarming effects of microplastics on our health. The transformative role of GLP-1 medications is highlighted, with potential benefits ranging from addiction treatment to migraine reduction. Topol also explores the future of AI in healthcare, emphasizing its efficiency and the critical need for preventative strategies to enhance longevity.