Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

A psychiatrist, engineer and neuroscientist, Kaf Dzirasa is researching ways to reengineer the brain to make it better able to cope with stress and so improve mental health.

In this engaging discussion, Shannon Vallor, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh, dives deep into the ethics of artificial intelligence. She warns against the 'Narcissus illusion'—our tendency to blindly trust AI's insights. Vallor discusses the intriguing phenomenon of AI hallucinations, balancing the creative potential they offer with their risks. She emphasizes the need for critical examination of AI's societal impact and the importance of preserving human judgment in an increasingly automated world.

Malcolm Gladwell, acclaimed author and journalist, dives into the fresh insights of his new book, exploring the hidden dimensions of social change. He tackles the opioid crisis, the complexities of diversity beyond gender and race, and the implications of social media on public opinion. From the perils of monoculture in elite institutions to the evolution of media influence, Gladwell connects these themes with contemporary issues, urging a rethinking of how we understand societal tipping points. It's a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional wisdom.

Ann Patchett, bestselling novelist and owner of Parnassus Books, revisits her iconic work 'Bel Canto' with refreshing insights. She shares her experience of annotating the novel, revealing her love-hate relationship with her own writing. The conversation traverses the emotional depth of character development and explores the balance between clarity and embellishment in storytelling. Patchett reflects on the profound connection between authors and their readers, and the transformative power of art amidst life's struggles.

In this enlightening discussion, Matt Strassler, a theoretical particle physicist affiliated with Harvard, delves into the fascinating concept that we are all made up of waves. Alan Alda grapples with the shock of this idea while uncovering the complexities of the Higgs field and its role in determining particle mass. Strassler critiques oversimplified physics analogies, pushing for a deeper understanding. The conversation also navigates the intricate relationship between waves, particles, and gravity, bridging complex scientific concepts with everyday language.

Julie Sedivy, a linguistics professor and author of 'Linguaphile,' shares her passion for language, shaped by her childhood as an immigrant speaking five languages. She discusses how language influences identity and social dynamics, especially in bilingual contexts. The conversation dives into the beauty and complexity of spoken language, the challenges of word retrieval as we age, and the potential impacts of modern communication on conversational skills. Sedivy highlights the role of language in fostering human connection and resilience.

Mala Murthy, a Professor of Neuroscience at Princeton University and co-leader of the Flywire Consortium, dives into the intricacies of the fruit fly's brain mapping. She reveals that understanding its 500 feet of neural wiring can provide insights into human cognition and potential disease treatments. The genetic similarities between fruit flies and humans open new avenues for research. Plus, she highlights how citizen scientists are revolutionizing neurological studies through collaboration and storytelling, bridging the gap between science and community.

Brenda Wineapple, a renowned author known for her engaging historical narratives, delves into the riveting 1925 Scopes trial. She discusses how this landmark case exposed deep societal anxieties over the clash between evolution and religious beliefs in education. The conversation highlights the trial's media coverage and its enduring relevance today, as well as the complex figure of Clarence Darrow, who navigated moral and constitutional dilemmas. Wineapple also reflects on the cultural upheaval of the era, drawing parallels to current debates in science and education.

Join neuroscientist and musician Daniel Levitin as he explores the profound impact of music on our emotional well-being. Discover how music acts as a therapeutic tool for chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease, enhancing movement and mood. Levitin also shares fascinating insights on music's role in Alzheimer's, exemplified by artists like Tony Bennett. Additionally, he discusses the connection between music, memory, and genuine conversations, highlighting the importance of empathy and active listening in our social interactions.

Julie Sedevy, author of "Linguophile," joins the conversation to explore the fascinating relationship between language and human development. Topics range from how babies begin tuning into their mother’s language in the womb to male fruit flies singing to attract mates. The discussion also delves into the impact of language on identity formation in childhood and the resilience of vocabulary throughout life. Expect insights into communication challenges faced by physicists and thought-provoking reflections on the art of writing.