Closer To Truth

In this intriguing discussion, astrophysicist Saul Perlmutter and physicists Roger Penrose, Paul Steinhardt, Martin Rees, and Frank Drake delve into whether the cosmos truly holds inherent meaning. They explore the origins of the universe, the implications of the Big Bang, and what humanity's role might be within the vast cosmos. The conversation also touches on the cyclical nature of the universe and the philosophical questions raised by possible extraterrestrial contact, challenging our understanding of existence and purpose.

Join brilliant minds like John Polkinghorne, a physicist turned theologian, and John Hick, a philosopher of religion, as they dive into the essence of God. The discussion redefines God beyond traditional views, exploring a vulnerable deity intertwined with the universe. J.L. Schellenberg raises questions about skepticism and existence, while Timothy O'Connor tackles free will. Together, they unravel the complexities of divine attributes, the notion of 'ultimism,' and the meaningful essence of faith in human life.

Astrophysicist Or Graur, an associate professor at the University of Portsmouth and author of 'Galaxies,' delves into the universe's grandeur. He discusses the groundbreaking findings from the James Webb Space Telescope, which reveal complex, ancient galaxies formed shortly after the Big Bang. Graur explores the formation and lifecycle of spiral galaxies, their transformation of gas into stars, and the intricate relationship with dark matter and black holes. He also touches on the vastness of the Milky Way and the intriguing questions of life beyond Earth.

Join Charles Tart, a psychologist in consciousness studies; Richard Swinburne, a philosopher of religion; Robert Park, a physicist promoting scientific literacy; James Tabor, an expert in early Christianity; and Keith Ward, a philosopher exploring science versus religion. They tackle profound questions about consciousness after death and whether we truly disappear. Discussing life after death, they explore biblical interpretations and contrasting resurrection beliefs, making you reflect on identity, hope, and the human desire for survival.

Renowned physicist Steven Weinberg, prominent physicist Paul Davies, neuroscientist Colin Blakemore, and theoretical computer scientist Scott Aaronson discuss the boundaries of science, the role of philosophy in enhancing scientific understanding, the evolving perspective on physical laws, and the interplay between philosophy and science in exploring consciousness and brain processes.

Marvin Minsky, Marilyn Schlitz, J. van Huyssteen, Colin McGinn, and Roger Walsh discuss the uniqueness of human consciousness, contrasting scientific, theological, and mystical perspectives. Conversations span neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, exploring the origins and significance of human consciousness.

Philosopher Ned Block discusses perception, cognition, and consciousness in his latest book. Topics include the limitations of AI achieving consciousness, theories of consciousness, the non-conceptual aspect of perception, distinctions between phenomenal and access consciousness, challenges in higher order theories of consciousness, panpsychism, building machines with chemical neurotransmitters, and the concept of substituting biological elements with silicon chips.

Plant geneticist Daniel Chamovitz explores whether plants are sentient beings, discussing their ability to sense, communicate through volatile chemicals, respond to light for growth, exhibit memory, communicate for defense, demonstrate awareness, and respond to touch and sound stimuli. The podcast delves into plant perception, communication mechanisms, and adaptive behaviors, challenging traditional views on plant intelligence.

How do Buddhism, Chinese traditions, and Hinduism address the perennial problems of suffering, ethics, ritual and contemplative practices? Why is suffering so important in Buddhism? Why karma in Hinduism? Why systems of nature in Chinese traditions?   Featuring interviews with Helen De Cruz Jay Garfield, Swami Sarvapriyananda, Swami Medhananda, Franklin Perkins, and Yang Xioa.   Explore all CTT videos on Eastern Traditions.

Philosophers and physicists discuss the profound question of why there is something instead of nothing, exploring ideas like necessary existence, the role of value, consciousness creating the universe, and ultimate explanations like theism and materialism. Guests include John Leslie, Bede Rundle, Max Tegmark, Simon Blackburn, Quentin Smith, Victor Stenger, Peter van Inwagen, John Polkinghorne, Richard Swinburne, and Paul Davies.