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Slate Podcasts
Technology coverage from across the Slate Podcast network
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 21, 2019 • 37min
S2E8: Salvation In The Air
Explore the history of nitrogen extraction and its parallel to carbon capture. Learn about carbon capture machines, the Haber process, and the challenges of capturing and storing carbon dioxide. Discover the hidden aspects of everyday life and the urgent need to tackle climate change.

Aug 14, 2019 • 35min
S2E7: A Bug In The System
Learn about the first computer program written by Ada Lovelace in 1843. Explore algorithmic bias and its impact on society. Discuss the role of women in early computing and the mythologization of Ada Lovelace. Discover the influence of Ada Lovelace and the future of AI, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in computing.

Aug 7, 2019 • 37min
S2E6: Dots, Dashes, and Dating Apps
This podcast explores the historical use of telegraphy for romance and draws parallels between telegraph communication and modern dating apps. It discusses the impact of technology on courtship practices, online dating experiences, risks of online communication, and the potential for happy endings.

Jul 31, 2019 • 38min
S2E5: Mars on Earth
This podcast explores the parallels between polar exploration and space missions, discussing the motivations behind both and the hardships faced by explorers. It also delves into living on a simulated Mars mission, emphasizing the challenges of isolation and the importance of psychological factors. The podcast draws lessons from Franklin's arctic expedition, highlighting the need for a dedicated leader and working with the environment. Additionally, it explores desired locations on Earth and Mars, reflecting on the psychological and political aspects of exploring hostile environments.

Jul 24, 2019 • 40min
S2E4: Meat and Potatoes
Exploring the historical significance of potatoes and the resistance they faced, while drawing parallels to current challenges in the world of meat substitutes. Discussion on the potential of insects as a sustainable protein source and the controversy surrounding cricket consumption. Examination of lab-grown meat as a scalable food production solution, along with the ethical implications. Exploration of the cultural and historical significance of meat and the challenges and advantages of plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives.

Jul 17, 2019 • 32min
S2E3: Unreliable Evidence
Explore the limitations of DNA profiling as a forensic technology and the potential pitfalls of assuming its infallibility. Delve into the history and impact of fingerprinting in criminal investigations. Discover the challenges of integrating scientific advancements, like DNA testing and fingerprint analysis, into the legal system.

Jul 10, 2019 • 33min
S2E2: Second Wind
Explore the possibility of returning to wind-powered ships for environmental sustainability, discover the historical significance of sailing ships and the decline due to steamships, learn about the forgotten Flettner rotor and its potential revival to reduce carbon emissions, and discuss the challenges of implementing wind assistance in the shipping industry.

Jul 3, 2019 • 44min
S2E1: A Familiar Tune
The podcast explores the impact of technology on music creation, from the concerns of composers about payment for recordings to the disruption caused by digital sampling. It also delves into the popularity of John Philip Sousa and his band, the evolution of music consumption and recording technology, piracy issues faced by Gilbert and Sullivan, and the rise of AI in music composition and its implications for copyright and ownership.

Jun 26, 2019 • 3min
Season 2 Trailer
Explore 19th century polar exploration and online dating apps as lessons for future missions to Mars and modern romances. Join 'The Secret History of the Future' for intriguing insights into technological advancements and what's in store for our modern world.

Nov 7, 2018 • 39min
S1E10: Infinite Scroll
Stewart Butterfield, CEO of Slack, and Nathan Jurgenson, Snapchat sociologist, discuss technological solutions for information overload. They explore the history of email and its impact, the printing press revolution, tools for navigating overwhelming information, personalized recommendations, Blinkist as a solution, and employer responsibility in addressing information overload.


