Big Think

Join Mary Beard, a renowned classical scholar and Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge, as she unpacks the realities of life in Ancient Rome. Discover how the Roman Empire's intricate roads facilitated cultural exchange and globalization, revealing a society shaped by inequality. Beard shares surprising insights on daily life, from unconventional culinary delights to the complexities of trade and military culture. She also discusses how modern technology can reshape our understanding of history, igniting a lifelong curiosity about this captivating period.

In this insightful discussion, research scientist Todd Rose reveals alarming levels of self-censorship in America, equating it to the oppressive atmosphere of McCarthyism. He explains how social trust has evaporated, leading many to silence their opinions while extremist voices dominate the conversation. Todd emphasizes the necessity of breaking this cycle by embracing differing viewpoints. Through compelling anecdotes, he advocates for moral courage and the importance of open dialogue to foster understanding in our polarized society.

Astrobiologist Betül Kaçar emphasizes that science thrives on curiosity rather than clear outcomes. She highlights how historical breakthroughs often arise from niche interests pursued purely for knowledge. Kaçar believes the quest for understanding is a deeply human trait, celebrating the beauty of questions that drive exploration. The discussion dives into how the desire for insight can lead to unexpected discoveries, reinforcing the idea that the journey of learning is just as valuable as the answers.

Peter Singer, a leading philosopher and bioethics professor at Princeton, discusses the necessity of freedom of thought and expression in confronting societal norms. He argues that censorship hinders our growth and understanding, referencing historical examples of suppressing controversial ideas. Singer emphasizes the risks of avoiding difficult conversations, like those around same-sex relationships, and advocates for open dialogue as a driver of social progress. He also highlights his co-founding of The Journal of Controversial Ideas to promote these discussions.

Adama Sanneh, Co-Founder and CEO of the Moleskine Foundation, explores the revolutionary power of creativity in social change. He discusses how art and culture can reshape policies and challenge social norms, showcasing examples like recording studios in African prisons. Sanneh highlights the importance of creativity in amplifying marginalized voices and fostering innovative solutions to pressing global issues. This conversation encourages listeners to become change-makers and harness creativity as a powerful tool for transformation.

Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic and host of Plain English, dives into the unraveling of the American Dream. He discusses how liberalism has shifted from building to blocking and critiques the failures of housing policies. The conversation covers the impact of corporate power, the need for government efficiency, and the social costs of digital isolation. Thompson advocates for a new political order that prioritizes innovation and community connections to combat loneliness in today's technology-driven world.

Jefferson Fisher, a Texas board-certified personal injury attorney and communication expert, dives into transforming conflict into connection. He argues that winning arguments often costs us respect and trust. Instead of controlling conversations, he encourages listeners to explore underlying triggers that escalate tensions. Fisher discusses the fight or flight response in conflicts and highlights the importance of self-awareness and curiosity in communication. Discover how to turn disputes into opportunities for stronger relationships!

Brendan McCord, founder and Chair of the Cosmos Institute, stands at the crossroads of AI and philosophy, advocating for a new breed of technologist: the Philosopher-Builder. He explores the dangers of relying too heavily on AI for decision-making, warning against the potential loss of human agency. McCord calls for a revival of ethical considerations in tech, critiquing Silicon Valley's moral decline. By blending philosophical thought with innovation, he envisions a future where technology enhances human flourishing and autonomy.

In this discussion, Sam Harris, a best-selling author and neuroscientist, explores how we can embrace difficult emotions without being overwhelmed by them. He argues that consciousness can offer a safe space from suffering. Through awareness, we can reframe our understanding of sadness and fear, finding tranquility beneath those feelings. Harris also emphasizes the role of meditation in freeing us from the grip of our emotions and highlights the importance of distinguishing between raw emotions and the thoughts that accompany them.

Ethan Mollick, a Wharton professor and author of "Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI," discusses the transformative potential and challenges posed by AI. He outlines four future scenarios for AI’s development, ranging from optimistic growth to existential risks. Mollick emphasizes viewing AI as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement, advocating for proactive choices to ensure its beneficial use. He also highlights AI's role in enhancing creativity and addressing real-world problems, urging responsible engagement with this powerful technology.