What if our reality is just a simulation crafted by future beings? This intriguing idea unfolds as philosophers examine the implications of the simulation argument. From the mathematical probabilities that suggest we might be in a simulated universe, to the evolution of computing power, the conversation spirals into existential risks and how we perceive reality. It even discusses potential tests to determine if we’re living in a simulation, all while highlighting humanity’s resilience in the face of profound questions about existence.

Josh explains that to survive the next century or two – to navigate our existential threats – all of us will have to become informed and involved. It will take a movement that gets behind science done right to make it through the Great Filter. (Original score by Point Lobo.) Interviewees: Toby Ord, Oxford University philosopher; Sebastian Farquahar, Oxford University philosopher Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We humans are our own worst enemies when it comes to what it will take to deal with existential risks. We are loaded with cognitive biases, can’t coordinate on a global scale, and see future generations as freeloaders. Seriously, are we going to survive? (Original score by Point Lobo.)Interviewees: Nick Bostrom, Oxford University philosopher and founder of the Future of Humanity Institute; Toby Ord, Oxford University philosopher; Anders Sandberg, Oxford University philosopher; Sebastian Farquahar, Oxford University philosopher; Eric Johnson, University of Oklahoma professor of law  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Surprisingly the field of particle physics poses a handful of existential threats, not just for us humans, but for everything alive on Earth – and in some cases, the entire universe. Poking around on the frontier of scientific understanding has its risks. (Original score by Point Lobo.) Interviewees: Don Lincoln, Fermi National Laboratory senior experimental particle physicist; Ben Shlaer, University of Auckland cosmologist University of Auckland; Daniel Whiteson, University of California, Irvine astrophysicist; Eric Johnson, University of Oklahoma professor of law  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former chair of the Containment Laboratory Community Advisory Committee, Beth Willis, and senior fellow at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, Dr Lynn Klotz, discuss the dangers of gain of function research and the potential catastrophic consequences of releasing genetically altered superbugs. They also highlight the need for stronger safeguards in biotech research to prevent accidental releases and the threat of a deadly pathogen causing a global pandemic.

An artificial intelligence capable of improving itself runs the risk of growing intelligent beyond any human capacity and outside of our control. Josh explains why a superintelligent AI that we haven’t planned for would be extremely bad for humankind. (Original score by Point Lobo.) Interviewees: Nick Bostrom, Oxford University philosopher and founder of the Future of Humanity Institute; David Pearce, philosopher and co-founder of the World Transhumanist Association (Humanity+); Sebastian Farquahar, Oxford University philosopher. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests on the podcast talk about the existential risks faced by humanity, including asteroid impacts, the potential for human colonization of other planets, the runaway greenhouse effect caused by climate change, and the dangers of intelligent algorithms evolving beyond human control.

Guests Nick Bostrom, David Pearce, and Robin Hanson discuss the Great Filter, existential risks, and the future of humanity. They explore the potential population growth, self-sacrificing behaviors within species, and the distinction between the easy and hard problems of consciousness. They also delve into the consequences of ecological and social collapse, resource wars, and the importance of preserving knowledge.

The Great Filter hypothesis says we’re alone in the universe because the process of evolution contains some filter that prevents life from spreading into the universe. Have we passed it or is it in our future? Humanity’s survival may depend on the answer. (Original score by Point Lobo.) Interviewees: Robin Hanson, George Mason University economist (creator of the Great Filter hypothesis); Toby Ord, Oxford University philosopher; Donald Brownlee, University of Washington astrobiologist (co-creator of the Rare Earth hypothesis); Phoebe Cohen, Williams College paleontologist. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered where all the aliens are? It’s actually very weird that, as big and old as the universe is, we seem to be the only intelligent life. In this episode, Josh examines the Fermi paradox, and what it says about humanity’s place in the universe. (Original score by Point Lobo.) Interviewees: Anders Sandberg, Oxford University philosopher and co-creator of the Aestivation hypothesis; Seth Shostak, director of SETI; Toby Ord, Oxford University philosopher. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.