Closer To Truth

Theoretical physicist Carlo Rovelli discusses his book, White Holes, which traces the ongoing adventure of his own cutting-edge research and outlines some of the most astounding ideas in astrophysics and cosmology. Rovelli investigates whether all black holes could eventually turn into white holes, equally compact objects in which the arrow of time is reversed.   Carlo Rovelli is a physicist and writer. He is currently a Distinguished Visiting Research Chair at the Perimeter Institute and core member of the Rotman Institute of Philosophy of Western University.   For subscriber-only benefits, register for a free membership at closertotruth.com.

Innovative theologian and neuroscientist Ilia Delio discusses Teilhard de Chardin, technology and AI, pursuit of extraterrestrial life, roles of evolution, quantum physics, and neuroscience in theology.

If life is a vast space of possibilities, then mathematics can engage with biology. Statistics analyze biological data, and mathematical models improve biological theories and reveal hidden commonalties. But could the mathematics of biology touch fundamental realities?   Featuring interviews with Leon Glass, Martin Nowak, Geoffrey West, Paul Davies, and Robbert Dijkgraaf.   For free subscriber-only exclusives, register today at closertotruth.com.

Roger Penrose, 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics, explores fundamental questions about existence, the nature of mathematics, and the cosmos. He discusses the interconnections between physical, mental, and mathematical worlds, the relationship of mathematics with the physical universe, and presents his hypothesis of conformal cyclic cosmology. Penrose challenges the dominant view of pure physicalism and delves into the mystery of the alignment between mathematics, the physical world, and mentality.

Mathematics describes the real world of atoms and acorns, stars and stairs, with remarkable precision. So is mathematics invented by humans-like chisels and hammers and pieces of music? Or is mathematics discovered-always out there, somewhere, like mysterious islands waiting to be found?   Featuring interviews with Roger Penrose, Mark Balaguer, Gregory Chaitin, Stephen Wolfram, and Frank Wilczek.   Register for free to get subscriber-only exclusives like early access to episodes and more.

Experts in probability theory, cosmology, quantum gravity, and computer science discuss the deep meaning of probability. They explore refining data, assessing theories, and probing ultimate reality in cosmology. Topics include confidence in precise measurements, assessing competing models, and revealing how quantum fluctuations became galactic structures.

Astrophysicist and cosmologist Martin Rees discusses the James Webb Space Telescope, black holes, existential risk, progress in understanding the birth of galaxies, balancing privacy and human safety, global justice, AI consciousness, and the future of humanity.

Brain scientists discuss the impact of brain damage on behavior, consciousness, perception, self, and addiction. They explore cases of brain injury, dementia, and drug abuse to gain insights into normal brain functioning and philosophical questions about personal identity.

Prominent theologians and philosophers delve into the astonishing claim that Jesus is God, discussing topics such as the challenges of understanding the incarnation, the development of the doctrine of the Trinity, the debate about the nature of Jesus, and the importance of beginning with Jesus in one's understanding of God.

Freeman Dyson, inventive thinker, discusses space colonization, extraterrestrial life, and the far future of intelligence. He explores different perspectives on physics, the concept of life as dust grains in space, harnessing energy through Dyson spheres, and his legacy challenging consensus.