Closer To Truth

Swami Medhananda, a Monk from the Ramakrishna Order, enlightens listeners on the interplay of Western philosophy and Vedanta. He dives into the metaphysical nuances of existence and essence within Eastern traditions, revealing the complexities of ultimate reality as viewed through the lenses of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. Topics like transcendence, oneness, and interconnectedness spark fascinating discussions, while comparisons of concepts such as Wu and Emptiness provoke thought about the divine and our place in the cosmos.

Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, a Senior Research Scientist at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, dives into the fascinating interplay between creativity and decision-making. She discusses how creativity is not merely a spontaneous gift but a deliberate choice, and emphasizes the role of emotion in this process. Pringle explores the importance of self-efficacy and the duality of creativity and intelligence. She also touches on innovative methods to enhance creativity, including the impact of openness to experience and the significance of psychological safety.

Donate to Closer To Truth and help us keep our content free and without paywalls.   Dualism claims reality has two parts, a physical and a nonphysical (mental or spiritual), both equally real. Dualism is believed by most people but rejected by most philosophers and scientists.   Featuring interviews with Yujin Nagasawa, Richard Swinburne, Jaron Lanier, Bede Rundle, and Peter Forrest.   Watch the episode on our YouTube channel here.

In this engaging discussion, Robin Hanson, an economist and associate professor at George Mason University, delves into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. He explores the societal implications of brain emulation and large language models, highlighting concerns about labor markets and wealth distribution. The conversation touches on the ethics of AI consciousness and the concept of virtual immortality. Also discussed are prediction markets as innovative decision-making tools and the Great Filter, reconsidering humanity's place in the universe and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Terry Sejnowski, Francis Crick Chair at The Salk Institute, dives into the complexities of large language models like ChatGPT. He questions whether these models truly understand language or just mimic human intelligence. Discussion ranges from the evolution of AI and the pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI) to the intriguing intersection of neurobiology and AI. Sejnowski also addresses ethical considerations surrounding AI consciousness and its implications for the future, challenging us to rethink what it means to be intelligent.

Jim Holt, a renowned physics writer and philosopher, discusses the essence of scientific breakthroughs. He explores how such breakthroughs challenge conventional wisdom and reshape our understanding of reality. Holt delves into the intersection of quantum mechanics and biology, revealing how quantum phenomena might influence life processes. He also tackles the philosophical implications of consciousness within the quantum realm and critiques the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental results. Prepare for a mind-bending journey!

In this thought-provoking discussion, Zorana Pringle, an expert on emotions and consciousness, teams up with Elisabeth Schellekens, who champions the cognitive aspects of aesthetic experience. They explore the intricate connections between emotions and consciousness, emphasizing how emotions shape our awareness. The conversation dives into the nuances of aesthetic experiences, contrasting objective and subjective interpretations of art. They also discuss creativity's non-linear nature and its deep ties to consciousness, revealing how our emotional landscape influences the creative process.

This engaging discussion features philosopher Andy Clark, a pioneer in the study of the extended mind and embodied cognition. He explores the intriguing concept of the mind extending beyond the brain, influenced by our environment and technology. Clark highlights how tools like smartphones reshape our memories and identities, raising questions about ownership and consciousness. He challenges traditional views on cognition, advocating for a holistic understanding that incorporates our social interactions and external artifacts.

Join physicist Michio Kaku, who blends a background in Buddhism and Christianity with cutting-edge science, as he tackles the mind-boggling concept of a fine-tuned universe. They delve into whether this precisely calibrated cosmos points to a divine creator or if multiverse theories provide a more plausible explanation. Kaku critiques five arguments against fine-tuning as evidence for God and explores the potential for alternate life forms. Tune in for a discussion that intertwines philosophy, science, and the cosmic quest for meaning!

Annaka Harris, New York Times bestselling author of "Conscious" and creator of the "Lights On" audio documentary series, delves deep into the mysteries of consciousness. She discusses its potential as a fundamental aspect of the universe and challenges traditional views in physics. Topics include the relationship between consciousness, artificial intelligence, and the illusion of self. Harris invites listeners to question identity, explore ethical concerns surrounding consciousness, and consider the implications of consciousness in both a scientific and philosophical context.