Big Think

Timestamps: 0:00: The library of Herculaneum 1:17: The Vesuvius Challenge 2:30: A unique approach 3:49: Deciphering ‘crackle’ 5:01: Solving an ancient puzzle Summary: In AD 79, the eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried the Roman town of Herculaneum, home to the only surviving ancient library. The scrolls, carbonized by the disaster, remained unreadable for centuries. However, modern technology is changing that. A team led by Brent Seales at the University of Kentucky has worked for 20 years to decode these scrolls. A competition, supported by Nat Friedman and later funded by Elon Musk, challenged researchers to develop AI-powered methods to "virtually unroll" and decipher the texts. One participant, after weeks of studying CT scans of the scrolls, identified patterns resembling Greek letters. This discovery led to breakthroughs by others, including SpaceX engineer Luke Farritor and researcher Youssef Nader, who used AI to automate text recognition. Their efforts revealed 15 columns of ancient Greek text for the first time in nearly 2,000 years. With further advancements, reading these scrolls could become significantly cheaper, unlocking lost knowledge from ancient Rome. Future excavations may uncover even more hidden libraries beneath Vesuvius. Key Takeaways: AI and CT scanning technology are revolutionizing archaeology. Newly uncovered texts could double the known corpus of ancient Roman literature. Future excavations may reveal even more lost knowledge. ------------------------- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

**🌍 Earth’s History Hinges on Chaos — and You Are Its Luckiest Accident** What if your existence was only possible because of two massive cosmic collisions — and one lucky sperm? Biologist and author **Sean B. Carroll** unveils a breathtaking truth: the evolution of life on Earth wasn’t a planned journey but a **wild series of accidents**. A 6-mile-wide asteroid struck the *exact* spot on Earth with just the right chemical mix to wipe out the dinosaurs, giving mammals — and eventually humans — a shot at dominance. A second monumental collision — India slamming into Asia — sparked the Ice Age, a trial by fire that forged our **big-brained, tool-making ancestors**. And your individual life? It’s a 1-in-70-trillion genetic fluke — a cosmic lottery win shaped by **chance mutations and timing**. There has never been, and never will be, another you. 🧬 Life isn’t destiny — it’s improbability, stacked on improbability. **So what else in your life could be hinging on a single moment of chance?** ------------------------- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Eagleman, a Stanford neuroscientist and bestselling author, dives into how our brains shape our reality. He reveals that our perceptions are often limited by personal experiences and inherent biases, leading us to confuse our narrow views with universal truths. Eagleman discusses perceptual genomics, showing how even small genetic differences alter how we experience the world. He emphasizes the importance of expanding our perspectives to foster empathy and unity, challenging the tribalism that can divide us.

In this engaging discussion, Jonny Thomson, a philosophy writer and founder of Mini Philosophy, shares insights on happiness from a philosophical perspective. He explores the elusive nature of happiness, drawing on Taoism to suggest that true fulfillment is deeper than mere pleasure. Thomson emphasizes the importance of connection and love, while challenging societal pressures that affect our well-being. He advocates for a broader understanding of happiness, urging listeners to seek meaning and mental health support amid modern challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Alua Arthur, a death doula and founder of Going With Grace, shares her transformative journey from a depressed lawyer searching for purpose to a compassionate guide for the dying. She candidly recounts a life-changing encounter in Cuba that forced her to confront her own mortality. Alua emphasizes the importance of truly living and cherishing each moment, while highlighting the emotional support she offers to those in their final days. Her insights remind us that acknowledging life's end can deepen our appreciation for living.

Michael Watkins, a Professor of leadership at IMD Business School, delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and its repercussions on the workplace. He contrasts adaptable 'surfers' with 'dinosaurs' to highlight the need for agility in this fast-paced tech world. Watkins unpacks the transformative power of generative AI and the challenges of agentic AI, discussing its potential for task automation and risks like misinformation. He emphasizes the art of precise prompting to engage critically with AI, navigating both its benefits and limitations.

Anne-Laure Le Cunff, a neuroscientist and founder of Ness Labs, dives into the fascinating world of mindsets and their hidden influence on our lives. She discusses the differences between living consciously and on autopilot, shedding light on three harmful mindsets: Cynical, Escapist, and Perfectionist. By sharing her own journey from traditional success to fulfillment through curiosity, she emphasizes the power of intentional living and small experiments. Tune in for insights on how to reclaim control over your choices and find true satisfaction.

Will Guidara, renowned restaurateur and author of Unreasonable Hospitality, shares insights from his illustrious career, including his time at Eleven Madison Park. He emphasizes that exceptional hospitality is essential for business success and loyalty. Guidara advocates for a people-first mindset, encouraging personalized experiences that resonate with customers. He reveals the magic of his 'Dreamweaver Program,' showcasing how tailored touches can create unforgettable memories, ultimately enhancing satisfaction and driving repeat business.

Hannah Ritchie, a Senior Researcher at the University of Oxford and Deputy Editor at Our World in Data, tackles the pressing challenge of our food systems in the face of climate change. She highlights how food production is a leading cause of emissions, urging a shift towards plant-based diets that can dramatically lower carbon footprints. Ritchie also discusses the staggering amount of food waste and the inefficiencies of animal farming. Lastly, she advocates for innovative agricultural practices to enhance productivity and sustainability, emphasizing the urgency for reform.

Atsuko Okatsuka, an Asian-American comedian and writer, shares her compelling immigrant story. She discusses her complex upbringing with a schizophrenic mother and the emotional weight of family separation. Through comedy, she confronts feelings of inadequacy and the quest for perfection. Atsuko highlights the power of vulnerability and honesty in fostering belonging and community. Her journey reflects how embracing personal insecurities can lead to acceptance and healing, proving that laughter can emerge even from the toughest experiences.