StarTalk Radio

Join Nobel Prize-winning structural biologist Venki Ramakrishnan as he discusses the profound topic of death with hosts Neil deGrasse Tyson, Chuck Nice, and Gary O’Reilly. They explore the science of aging, the molecular journey of cells, and the philosophical implications of mortality. Ramakrishnan humorously compares aging to bread, delves into the mysteries of stem cells, and challenges our perceptions of life and death. The conversation pushes boundaries, questioning the limits of lifespan and the meaning of existence.

Join the hosts as they tackle cosmic curiosities, ranging from the perplexing nature of black holes to the intriguing concept of escaping their grasp. Discover the surprising role of plasma propulsion in interstellar travel and how it could revolutionize space exploration. Delve into the complexities of gravity, time, and dimensions while contemplating humanity's place in the universe. With humor and insightful anecdotes, this conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity in understanding our cosmic surroundings.

Ann Druyan, an Emmy-winning writer and producer known for her collaboration with Carl Sagan, teams up with Brian Toon, a professor and nuclear winter expert. They dive deep into the chilling implications of nuclear winter and its historical context during the Cold War. The conversation also touches on the parallels between nuclear threats and climate science, emphasizing the urgency for awareness. They explore the intersection of science and geopolitics, the importance of personal mental health in these discussions, and ultimately, the power of collective action for a hopeful future.

Astrophysicist Michael Shara, a professor and curator at the American Museum of Natural History, dives into the explosive world of supernovas. He discusses the cosmic lifecycle of stars, highlighting the future of star formation and the dramatic end of giants like Betelgeuse. The conversation covers fascinating binary star systems, the role of white dwarfs, and why Betelgeuse's eventual blast is one to watch. Michael also emphasizes the contributions of amateur astronomers and the significance of neutrinos in predicting supernova events, making for an engaging cosmic journey.

James Kimmel Jr., a Yale psychiatry lecturer and author of 'The Science of Revenge,' joins the conversation to dive deep into the psychology of revenge. They explore its neurobiological addiction, exposing the tension between retribution and consequences. Discussions reveal how personal experiences shape our revenge-seeking behavior and the potential for self-awareness to transform aggression. Kimmel emphasizes forgiveness, portraying it as a healthier alternative, while also tackling its societal implications and the misunderstandings surrounding violence and public health.

Elise Crull, a philosopher of physics and author of The Einstein Paradox, joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice to delve into the intersection of physics and philosophy. They discuss how historical figures like Einstein have shaped our understanding of quantum mechanics and the necessity of philosophical insight in science. Crull advocates for rethinking science education to incorporate philosophy, critiquing the hyper-specialization that limits broad thinking. They also explore the complexities of classical versus quantum physics and the ongoing philosophical debates that challenge established scientific norms.

In this engaging minisode, Harleen Kaur, a former space engineer and founder of Ground News, teams up with Neil deGrasse Tyson and Gary O’Reilly to tackle the pressing issues of media bias and the state of news reporting today. They discuss the overwhelming information flood and the necessity for critical consumption of news. Harleen introduces innovative approaches to evaluate news sources, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in combating polarization. The trio also explores the role of technology and AI in shaping our understanding of reality.

In this engaging discussion, Lara Anderson, an Associate Professor of Physics at Virginia Tech and expert in string theory, delves into the intricate world of higher dimensions. She explains the unifying quest of string theory while exploring its implications on black holes and quantum mechanics. The conversation also touches on time travel theories, the interplay of physics and mathematics, and the challenges posed by complex configurations in predictions about the universe. Anderson’s insights spark curiosity around undiscovered forces and the future of theoretical physics.

Astrophysicist Charles Liu, co-author of 'One Universe at Home in the Cosmos,' joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and cohosts to explore mind-bending concepts like dimensional leaking and its implications for our reality. They discuss the mystery of gravity, the curious nature of black holes, and the enigmatic temperature differences in the solar corona. Liu also reveals insights from the Parker Solar Probe's findings about the sun, inviting listeners to rethink their understanding of cosmic phenomena and the universe's cyclic nature.

Can time exist without motion? Dive into a lively discussion about the Silurian hypothesis and the possible existence of advanced civilizations that may have vanished from Earth. Discover the intricate relationship between time, motion, and our perception of time itself. The conversation also touches on the mysteries of black holes and lunar mining, as well as the fascinating concept of wormholes and their theoretical implications. Unravel the roles of photons and ponder the idea of universes existing within black holes.