The world, the universe and us
New Scientist
From the evolution of intelligent life, to the mysteries of consciousness; from the threat of the climate crisis to the search for dark matter, The world, the universe and us is your essential weekly dose of science and wonder in an uncertain world. Hosted by journalists Dr Rowan Hooper and Dr Penny Sarchet and joined each week by expert scientists in the field, the show draws on New Scientist’s unparalleled depth of reporting to put the stories that matter into context. Feed your curiosity with the podcast that will restore your sense of optimism and nourish your brain.For more visit newscientist.com/podcasts
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 12, 2024 • 26min
Weekly: Brain regions shrink during pregnancy; oldest and largest Amazon cities discovered; corals that change their sex like clockwork
Pregnancy causes significant changes in the brain, an ancient city has been discovered in the Amazon, the mystery of black holes and the paradox of disappearing matter, hammer corals change their sex like clockwork
Jan 9, 2024 • 21min
Escape Pod: #2 Alliances in matters biological, mathematical and atomical
Renowned Hungarian mathematician guest_name_1 discusses alliances in biology, mathematics, and atomic sciences. Topics include the symbiotic relationships of lichen, the versatility of carbon, the discovery of graphene, and the life and work of mathematician Paul Erdős.
Jan 5, 2024 • 34min
Weekly: What’s next for science in 2024? A year of moons; weight-loss drugs; and a massive new supercomputer for Europe
Discover what 2024 has in store for science! From upcoming space missions to the development of an exascale supercomputer in Europe. Also, learn why global warming is expected to make 2024 even hotter and how weight loss drugs are advancing. Plus, explore the possibility of using artificial uteruses for premature babies and get excited about upcoming celestial events for stargazing.
Jan 2, 2024 • 25min
Escape Pod: #1 Understanding the self-awareness of dolphins
Legendary gymnast Simone Biles discusses the seemingly impossible abilities of gymnasts and ballerinas, including her own record-breaking triple double. The podcast also explores the self-awareness of dolphins and whales and the intricacies of their language, as well as the complex game of Go with more possible moves than there are atoms in the universe.
Dec 29, 2023 • 31min
Best of 2023, part 2: India lands on the moon; the orca uprising; birds make use of anti-bird spikes
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the most interesting science stories of 2023, including the successful moon landing by India, the rise of orca attacks on boats, and the unique bird nests made of anti-bird spikes. They also touch on topics such as the discovery of natural graphene, the end of the global health emergency for COVID-19, and the cooperation between dolphins and fishermen. Additionally, they explore the properties of hagfish slime and reflect on the scientific process.
Dec 26, 2023 • 32min
CultureLab: The best books of 2023, from joyful escapism to sobering reads
In this episode, the hosts discuss their favorite books of 2023, including a sobering story of life in a human-polluted ocean narrated by a dolphin, science fiction that takes you to parallel worlds, and the world's longest study of happiness. They also cover topics such as the selection process for the New Scientist book club, intriguing book discussions, escapist reads, exploring empathy, and upcoming exciting books like 'The Mars House' and 'The Lock Tomb'.
Dec 22, 2023 • 31min
Best of 2023, part 1: Euclid telescope’s big year; AI is everywhere (for better and worse); why doctors searched their poo for tiny toys
In this special episode, the hosts discuss the funniest and most futuristic science stories of 2023. Topics include the Euclid Space Telescope mapping the universe, generative AI flooding Clarkesworld magazine with poorly written stories, and doctors searching their poo for LEGO toys. They also talk about advancements in science and technology, including CRISPR gene editing and the Pope's fashion choices influenced by AI.
Dec 19, 2023 • 41min
CultureLab: A duet between music and the natural world with Erland Cooper’s playful compositions
Composer Erland Cooper discusses his innovative projects, including burying audio compositions and creating treasure hunts. His newest album, Folded Landscapes, explores the environment and climate change. The podcast explores the power of music and nature, collaborative compositions with nature, creating a composition using different temperature settings, and exploring the natural world through music.
Dec 17, 2023 • 27min
Science of cannabis: #3 The weed of the future
Explore the future of cannabis production, including increasing potency and different methods of consumption. Discover the challenges of assessing impairment from cannabis use for driving and the need for further research. Learn about the high environmental costs of cannabis cultivation and the potential for sustainable practices. Dive into the chemistry of cannabis smell and the bioengineering of cannabinoids using yeast. Discover the benefits of microbial fermentation in producing cannabinoids.
Dec 15, 2023 • 28min
Weekly: New climate deal at COP28; AI mathematician; a problem with the universe
Recent climate deal at COP28 raises questions about its effectiveness in transitioning away from fossil fuels. Google Deepmind's AI chatbot makes scientific discoveries, despite majority of output being useless. Arctic seals' intricate nose bones help them retain heat and moisture. Discrepancies in measuring matter clumping on large scales point to gaps in our understanding of the universe.
