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The Stephen Wolfram Podcast

Latest episodes

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Oct 4, 2024 • 1h 26min

History of Science & Technology Q&A (September 4, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram answers questions from his viewers about the history of science and technology as part of an unscripted livestream series, also available on YouTube here: https://wolfr.am/youtube-sw-qa Questions include: When, for you, was a computational approach introduced to the scientific process or the scientific culture? - Who began the trend of naming discoveries, inventions, etc. after yourself? - Became clear? How? Pretty sure no one ever solved the three-body equation. - Commentary about naming conventions. - The Trojan asteroids are named after characters from the Trojan War in Greek mythology because of the convention that started with the discovery of the first few such asteroids near Jupiter. These asteroids occupy stable Lagrangian points (L4 and L5) in Jupiter's orbit, and astronomers decided to name them after heroes from the Trojan War, with those at L4 being named after Greek heroes and those at L5 named after Trojan heroes. - Any planned work with tungsten? - ​​​​Regarding naming, is there are good naming convention is computer languages? - What's your view of innovation in economic science? We are nearly 250 years since Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations. - Recall the idea of "Recapitate" instead of "Apply."
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Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 8min

Future of Science and Technology Q&A (August 30, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a leading computer scientist and creator of the Wolfram Language, dives into the future of science and technology. He discusses the intriguing possibilities of machine learning in creating new genera and the complexities of genetic modification. Wolfram sheds light on information sourcing in research, questioning how to responsibly cite AI-generated data. He also explores the impact of quantum computing on sustainable textiles and the integration of memory in large language models to enhance performance. The conversation tackles authenticity in AI-generated content and the future of technology.
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Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 5min

Business, Innovation and Managing Life (August 28, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a renowned innovator in computational science, dives into a captivating discussion about books, life management, and entrepreneurship. He shares his thoughts on whether books should serve practical or decorative purposes and reveals his preference for physical books over digital ones. Wolfram reflects on balancing work with vacations, emphasizing the joy of pursuing passions. He also discusses his early entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of self-funding and maintaining creative control in a rapidly changing tech landscape.
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Sep 27, 2024 • 1h 14min

Science & Technology Q&A for Kids (and others) [August 23, 2024]

Stephen Wolfram, a pioneering figure in science and technology, takes on a plethora of viewer questions in this engaging discussion. He breaks down the complexities of machine learning, explaining how it differs from traditional coding and its real-world applications. Dive into the wonders of water vapor and its molecular dynamics, unraveling how temperature influences states of matter. Wolfram also touches on the role of randomness in algorithms, highlighting its surprising benefits in modern computing.
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Sep 27, 2024 • 1h 22min

History of Science & Technology Q&A (August 21, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, an influential computer scientist and creator of Mathematica and Wolfram Alpha, engages in a lively discussion on the history of science and technology. He shares insights about the evolution of programming languages, specifically the influence of LISP-like structures and the usability of untyped Mathematica. The conversation delves into dimensional analysis's role in physics and the quirky history of lazy evaluation. Wolfram also reflects on the philosophical impact of mathematics on computer science and theories of human reasoning shaped by computational work.
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Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 23min

Future of Science and Technology Q&A (August 16, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a pioneer in computational science, engages with viewers' questions on the future of science and technology. He discusses methods to minimize hallucination in large language models and the importance of prompt engineering. Wolfram envisions AI, notably the AI Scientist, transforming scientific research and peer review, blending innovative ideas with traditional processes. He also reflects on the ethical responsibilities of humans when AI makes mistakes, navigating the intricate relationship between language, computation, and decision-making.
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Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 23min

Business, Innovation and Managing Life (August 14, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a luminary in computer science and tech innovation, engages in a lively discussion about business and life management. He shares insights on his impressive collection of 10,000 books and the meticulous organization of his home library. Wolfram reflects on the traits of a strong CTO, the importance of mentorship, and how video calls can be draining. He also reminisces about Mathematica's evolution and emphasizes the role of effective personal organization and communication in fostering productivity.
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Sep 20, 2024 • 1h 26min

Science & Technology Q&A for Kids (and others) [August 9, 2024]

In this lively discussion, Stephen Wolfram, a leading computer scientist and creator of the Wolfram Language, dives into a myriad of curious science and technology questions. He explains how galaxies form and why animals can sense earthquakes while humans can't. Discover the difference between speed and acceleration, the paradox of energy conservation, and how mutations drive biological evolution. Wolfram also speculates on the possibility of creating mini-galaxies on Earth and the fascinating physics of black holes.
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Sep 20, 2024 • 1h 4min

History of Science & Technology Q&A (August 7, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a renowned computer scientist and founder of Wolfram Research, dives into fascinating topics from the history of science and technology. He explores the evolution of data visualization and highlights key figures like Euclid and Florence Nightingale. Wolfram debates the feasibility of beaming solar energy from space and discusses the significance of compression functions in computing. He also uncovers the complex origins of written language and delves into the evolution of cellular automata and eyeglass technology.
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Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 20min

Future of Science and Technology Q&A (August 2, 2024)

Stephen Wolfram, a pioneering researcher in computational science, dives into the future of science and technology with thought-provoking questions. He discusses the potential role of quantum mechanics in neuroscience and explores the concept of 'quantum cognition.' The dialogue also covers the exciting possibilities of AI in medical treatments for cancer and the future of neural interfaces. Wolfram shares insights on how emergent technologies might transform brain repair and the relevance of the microbiome in medicine.

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