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
Nov 1, 2024 • 32min
Weekly: Microbiome special: how to boost your vital gut bacteria
James Dinneen shares insights from the COP16 Biodiversity Summit while Carissa Wong uncovers the shocking long-term effects of antibiotics on gut bacteria. Alison George reveals the best ways to maintain a healthy microbiome as we age, emphasizing the importance of a diverse diet and fermented foods. Leah Stokes discusses the implications of climate policies on biodiversity, especially in the context of upcoming elections. It's a fascinating blend of ecology and gut health, showcasing the intricate balance of life within us and around us.
Oct 25, 2024 • 22min
Weekly: The gruesome story of the Viking skeleton found in a well
Join James Woodford, an Australia reporter for New Scientist, as he uncovers the gripping tale of a Viking skeleton discovered in a well—linking it to an ancient Norse saga. Michael Le Page discusses encouraging new findings on energy imbalance and climate change that may dim fears of accelerating global warming. Grace Wade and neuroscientist Carina Heller dive into the surprising effects of birth control pills on brain health, revealing changes that warrant further exploration. A riveting blend of history, science, and health awaits!
4 snips
Oct 18, 2024 • 22min
Weekly: SpaceX makes history with Starship rocket; bringing thylacines back from extinction
In this conversation, Michael Le Page, a science reporter, discusses Colossal's groundbreaking efforts to revive the thylacine using advanced genetics. Is it possible to bring back this extinct species, and what might that entail for ecosystems? Alexandra Thompson, also a reporter, delves into how bullying can physically alter brain structure in youth, impacting emotional regulation and memory. The discussion raises critical points about the long-term effects of bullying and the pressing need to address its seriousness.
Oct 11, 2024 • 21min
Weekly: Climate overshoot - when we go past 1.5 degrees there is no going back
In this insightful discussion, reporters Michael Le Page, Sam Wong, and James Dinneen dive into the severe implications of climate overshoot, questioning the possibility of reversing temperature rise beyond 1.5 degrees. Le Page highlights irreversible ecosystem damage, while Wong shares the thrilling discovery of two-billion-year-old bacteria and its implications for extraterrestrial life. Dinneen connects the dots between climate change and Hurricane Milton's devastating impact on Florida, emphasizing the urgency for action in the face of extreme weather.
Oct 4, 2024 • 19min
The Last of Its Kind - Gísli Pálsson | Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
In this insightful discussion, Gísli Pálsson, an Icelandic anthropologist and author of "The Last of Its Kind," delves into the poignant story of the great auk, a flightless bird hunted to extinction. Pálsson reveals how British ornithologists sought its specimens in vain, resonating with the broader implications of human-induced extinction. He shares personal motivations behind his work and sheds light on Alfred Newton's pivotal yet overlooked role in extinction studies. Their conversation highlights the urgent connection between past and present ecological crises.
Oct 4, 2024 • 24min
Weekly: Hope for the world’s coral; the first drone vs drone war
Chris Jury, a coral adaptation researcher at the University of Hawaii, shares promising insights into coral resilience against climate change, despite alarming projections of mass die-offs. Sam Wong uncovers the intriguing story of a 17,000-year-old toddler from Italy, revealing details of his life through ancient DNA. Jacob Aron analyzes modern warfare's shift with drones, discussing their strategic use in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and pondering the implications of autonomous combat. Together, they delve into hope for our planet and the evolution of humanity.
Oct 3, 2024 • 24min
Everything Is Predictable - Tom Chivers | Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
Tom Chivers, a science journalist and author, explores the groundbreaking impact of Bayes' Theorem on our understanding of probability. He discusses Thomas Bayes' life and the unexpected implications of his 18th-century discovery. From disease diagnosis to influencing human decision-making, Chivers reveals how this theorem shapes various fields. He also addresses the struggle to make complex mathematical concepts accessible and the ongoing debates between Bayesian and frequentist methodologies in statistics.
Oct 2, 2024 • 18min
Eve - Cat Bohannon | Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
Cat Bohannon, an author focused on how women’s biology has shaped human evolution, shares fascinating insights from her book 'Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution'. She discusses why women’s bodies are under-researched and the intriguing differences in sensory perceptions between genders. Bohannon highlights the need to integrate female perspectives in science, tackles the intersection of sexism and science, and underscores the importance of accurate representation in understanding human health.
Oct 1, 2024 • 21min
Why We Die by Venki Ramakrishnan - Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
In this engaging discussion, Nobel Prize-winning biologist Venki Ramakrishnan dives into his book on aging and mortality. He questions why some creatures enjoy long lives while others do not, exploring the evolutionary significance of aging. Venki also tackles the pressing issue of immortality, discussing emerging technologies and their societal implications. He challenges common misconceptions about aging and highlights the intricate relationship between lifespan and metabolism, prompting thought-provoking reflections on our mortality.
Sep 30, 2024 • 18min
A City on Mars by Kelly and Zach Weinersmith - Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
Kelly and Zach Weinersmith, both award-nominated authors, examine the ambitious goal of establishing a human colony on Mars. They tackle the feasibility and ethical concerns of interplanetary life, navigating complex challenges like human reproduction off Earth. The duo dives into the sociopolitical dynamics of creating a Martian company town, drawing parallels with historical precedents. Their journey through rigorous research during the pandemic sheds light on the intersection of fiction and science, all while sharing personal anecdotes and laughs.
