Big Think

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading psychologist and Chief Science Officer at the Center for Law, Brain & Behavior, explores how our brains don't just perceive reality—they create it. She explains how sensory inputs and past experiences shape our interpretations, leading to constructs like social reality. Barrett dives into the imaginative power of our minds, illustrating how this creativity fosters innovation but may also challenge our ability to remain present in the moment. A fascinating journey into the nuances of perception!

Chloé Valdary, founder of The Theory of Enchantment and an expert in compassionate antiracism, delves into Stoic philosophy and its relevance in overcoming modern despair. She explains how embracing sadness, rather than avoiding it, is crucial for emotional resilience. Valdary introduces the concept of 'sympatheia,' highlighting our shared human experience through suffering. She discusses practical methods to process emotions, like journaling and using cultural stories, and emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge in fostering compassion for others.

In a heartfelt discussion, Michelle Thaller, an astronomer and NASA's Assistant Director of Science Communication, shares her journey through grief after losing her husband to cancer. She describes the shock of sudden loss and the feeling of being disconnected from the world. Using physics and the arts as coping mechanisms, she explains how they helped her find meaning amid the pain. Thaller emphasizes that while grief may linger, engaging with the universe through science and creativity can illuminate a path forward in healing.

Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, a wealth psychology expert, explores how childhood messages shape our lifelong relationship with money. She discusses the early feelings of “money shame” and how they impact our financial decisions. Personal stories illustrate the real-world effects of these childhood experiences, highlighting the emotional struggles around money. Kathleen also offers practical advice on teaching children healthy financial habits, emphasizing the importance of open conversations and visual tools to create a positive money mindset.

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Zollman, an associate professor of philosophy specializing in game theory, and Annie Duke, a professional poker player and decision-making expert, delve into the intricacies of strategic thinking. Zollman explains how competitive scenarios, like the Cold War, can turn cooperative, using phased arms reduction as an example. Duke shares insights on the sunk cost fallacy, emphasizing the importance of future payoffs in decision-making. Together, they reveal how game theory can transform choices in both high-stakes poker and everyday life.

Brian Klaas, a political expert from University College London, dissects the myth that billionaires are inherently brilliant. He reveals that luck plays a much larger role in their success than talent. Klaas highlights a study showing that the richest individuals are often just slightly above average, benefiting from fortunate circumstances rather than exceptional skill. He also discusses how the relentless greed of billionaires drives them to accumulate wealth, revealing a darker side to extreme wealth that challenges common narratives.

In this intriguing discussion, Sabine Hossenfelder, a theoretical physicist and science communicator, tackles the enigma of time's one-way direction. She explains how fundamental particle laws are time-symmetric but macroscopic events are not—a concept known as the arrow of time. Hossenfelder dives into entropy, revealing its role in aging and the potential for lifespan extension. She even explores philosophical ideas on the universe's fate and its connection to science fiction, including Asimov's thought-provoking story on reversing entropy.

In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Oliver Burkeman delves into embracing life's problems as a path to meaning. He argues that believing life should be problem-free only adds to our suffering. By confronting challenges, we find resonance and purpose. Burkeman shares practical strategies to tackle avoidance behaviors, such as visualizing initial steps and transforming daunting tasks into manageable ones. He highlights how discomfort often signals growth and encourages taking tiny actions towards meaningful change.

Join Dr. Ethan Siegel, an astrophysicist and author of 'Starts with a Bang!', as he dives into the tantalizing concept of the multiverse. Explore the mind-bending implication that every choice we make spawns countless alternate realities. Siegel discusses how cosmic inflation might create 'bubble universes' with varying laws of physics, and unpacks the fascinating world of quantum mechanics—a realm where every possibility could exist simultaneously. Buckle up as you contemplate the mysteries of infinity and the nature of reality!

Robert Waldinger, a Clinical Professor at Harvard Medical School and a practicing Zen priest, bridges Eastern spirituality and Western psychology. He delves into the transformative power of Zen Buddhism, discussing the importance of impermanence and mindfulness in relieving suffering. Waldinger emphasizes cultivating loving-kindness and embracing a 'beginner's mind' to foster deeper connections in relationships. His insights offer practical guidance for those seeking inner peace and a more fulfilling life.