The Poetry of Reality with Richard Dawkins
Richard Dawkins
The Poetry of Reality is hosted by world renowned truth-teller, evolutionary biologist and best-selling author, Professor Richard Dawkins. He has been celebrated globally for his honest critique of religion and tradition and his push for critical thinking. His books include The Ancestor’s Tale, The Selfish Gene, The Blind Watchmaker, Climbing Mount Improbable, Unweaving the Rainbow, A Devil’s Chaplain, The God Delusion, The Greatest Show on Earth, The Magic of Reality, his two-part autobiography An Appetite for Wonder and A Brief Candle in the Dark, and Outgrowing God: A Beginner’s Guide. Dawkins has long been known for his uncompromising passion for science, calling out for the pressing need in modern societies for scientific literacy and rational thinking, especially in the education of young minds. His relentless pursuit of truth, and his recognition of the beauty of life on earth, will feature in this podcast, as he charts his way through scientific and existential inquiries like ‘What are we doing here?’ and ‘When did life begin?’
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 13, 2024 • 22min
Do Trans People Exist? Good, Bad, and Preposterous Questions with Richard Dawkins
Join me for another thought-provoking Q&A session with Taryn Southern on a wide range of topics, from the ethics of selective breeding and eugenics to western liberal sympathy toward Islam and wokeism. You asked me what I think about trans people, genes and sexual orientation, mindfulness and AI______________________ Join Substack: https://richarddawkins.substack.com/ Subscribe to Poetry of Reality Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmwfdgHA_R9fzr1L0_hxdVw Follow: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.poetry.of.reality/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/RichardDawkins Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardDawkinsBooks Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/ThePoetryofReality Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Apr 10, 2024 • 1h 7min
Why Did Andrew Sullivan Apologise to Richard Dawkins?
Journalist Andrew Sullivan and biologist Richard Dawkins discuss societal aversion to directness and breakdown of democratic conversation, primal instincts in nature, the universe's immensity, the role of religion in moral philosophy, the truth of human nature, and the sex binary. They tackle a wide array of topics in their quest for understanding.
Mar 30, 2024 • 32min
Richard Dawkins Calmly Talks About Talking to the Dead
Renowned evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins challenges psychic Craig Hamilton Parker on communicating with the dead, showcasing skepticism vs. belief, reason vs. deception, and science vs. mysticism. The conversation explores the complexities of mediumship, the role of science in investigating psychic phenomena, and the challenges of proving paranormal claims.
Mar 23, 2024 • 59min
A Bishop & A Scientist Talk About the comfort of religion and the truth of science
A bishop and a scientist discuss the human impulse to be good, the delicate balance between belief and scepticism, the poetic value of religious myth, the consoling fiction or genuine comfort of religion, philosophical and scientific inquiries about consciousness and the universe, evolutionary influence on emotions and altruistic behavior, nuanced perceptions of religion, seeking comfort from religion while pursuing truth in science, human brain's search for meaning in the universe, religious classification and influence, implications of Pascal's Wager and belief in God.
Mar 16, 2024 • 45min
Science, Deceit & Healthcare: Navigating The Minefield of Alternative Medicine with Prof. Michael Baum
Delving into the challenges of alternative medicine, the podcast examines reliance on anecdotal evidence, the allure of unproven remedies in cancer treatment, and the importance of the scientific method. Discussions include holistic principles, delayed drug approvals in breast cancer, and the impact of art therapy and acupuncture. Emphasizing the need for evidence-based healthcare, the episode underscores the role of scientific literacy and critical thinking in navigating the minefield of alternative medicine.
4 snips
Mar 15, 2024 • 21min
Quantum Healing and Similar Meaningless Deepities: My Conversation with Deepak Chopra
Exploring quantum healing and the integration of quantum theory with consciousness, discussing the observer effect, non-locality, and correlation. Debating the balance between belief and faith, embracing the unknown, and holistic healing approaches for patients. Addressing the harmony between science and wisdom traditions in healing and the need for a comprehensive approach to address various life aspects in treatment.
Mar 8, 2024 • 52min
Roots Of Reason: Growing Up with Richard Dawkins
Richard Dawkins and Gyles Brandreth reminisce about childhood in Kenya and the UK, private education, bad teachers, young love, and starfish inspiring awe of the natural world. They explore memories of injections, encounters with wildlife, school days, Oxford's tutorial system, specialized learning in Zoology, and the hydraulics of starfish movement.
Mar 1, 2024 • 49min
Think For Yourself: Breaking Out Of Indoctrination
The podcast explores the impact of indoctrination on children's right to truth, discussing freedom through science and morality. It delves into the clash between religion and atheism, highlighting the struggle against evolution due to tribal affiliations. The speaker's writings inspire a transition from born-again Christianity and explore the origins of life in the universe.
Feb 23, 2024 • 1h 3min
Bill Nye on Saving The World
Bill Nye discusses various topics like life in outer space, climate change, improving governance, and creating a scientifically literate society in a conversation with Richard Dawkins. They touch on solar sail technology, renewable energy solutions, nuclear fusion for energy generation, and engaging with diverse belief systems.
Feb 15, 2024 • 43min
From Genes To Memes: Philosopher Dan Dennett on the Evolution of Language & AI
Philosopher Dan Dennett discusses his book I've Been Thinking, evolution of language, future of human consciousness, AI technology's impact on truth and reality, dangers of AI manipulation, power of intuition pumps, humorous anecdotes, hidden shame of Wittgenstein's sexuality, and the role of memes in cultural evolution.
