Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

Dr. Jonathan Downar, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist specializing in magnetic stimulation, joins David Eagleman to delve into the fascinating world of resilience. They explore how the brain processes adversity and whether resilience is innate or developed. The conversation uncovers the importance of the salience network and discusses revolutionary techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in enhancing mental health. Listeners will learn about the interplay between personal experiences and mental strength, with insights on fostering resilience through social connections.

Unravel the mysteries of why our brains are drawn to slow-motion videos, exploring their impact on emotional engagement and time perception. Discover how this cinematic technique transforms storytelling and enhances memory during intense moments. Delve into the psychological allure of slow motion, revealing hidden details and micro-expressions that we often overlook. Insights from neuroscience and iconic films highlight the captivating power of altered time, making complex emotions resonate deeply with viewers.

Discover the intriguing reasons why our brains sometimes create convincing false memories. Dive into fascinating cases, like a blind woman who believes she can see, and explore the Mandela Effect, where groups remember events differently. Uncover the psychological tricks behind memory distortions and how they impact our identity. From brain injuries to the fluid nature of recollections, you'll see how storytelling intersects with truth and fiction. It's a mind-bending journey into the reliability of what we think we remember!

Bethanie Maples, a researcher at Stanford's Graduate School of Education, explores the evolving dynamics of human relationships with AI. She discusses how many are forming emotional bonds with AI companions, and whether these relationships serve as mirrors, traps, or safe spaces. The conversation probes the psychological implications of AI interactions, their impact on loneliness and mental health, and the line between romantic and therapeutic bots. With insights on guilt, jealousy, and coping with loss, Bethanie sheds light on the future of love in a digital age.

In this engaging conversation, Trevor Martin, co-founder and CEO of Mammoth Biosciences, discusses groundbreaking CRISPR technologies and their capacity to rewrite our genetic code. He explores ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic modifications, emphasizing their potential to reshape human identity and health. From the implications for disease treatment to issues of access and equity, Trevor highlights how advancements in gene editing may influence our future. This thought-provoking dialogue encourages listeners to reflect on the societal impact of altering our biological legacy.

Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, discusses the future of education in an AI-driven world. He emphasizes the need to adapt teaching methods to equip students with critical thinking and creativity skills. Khan highlights the transformative role of AI, suggesting that tools like personal AI tutors can enhance learning experiences while addressing educational disparities. He advocates for collaboration between students and AI, navigating the balance between foundational knowledge and innovative assessments to prepare learners for tomorrow's job market.

Explore how AI is reshaping education and challenging traditional methods. Discover the evolution from textbooks to interactive learning, enhancing critical thinking and creativity in students. The conversation connects historical milestones like the printing press to modern tech's impact on knowledge acquisition. Learn how AI can support teachers while making education more engaging and personalized. This thought-provoking discussion emphasizes the importance of preparing youth for a dynamic future.

In this engaging discussion, Anil Seth, a Professor of cognitive and computational neuroscience at the University of Sussex and author of "Being You", dives into the intricate ways our brains construct reality. He poses thought-provoking questions about perception and individuality, exploring whether we see color the same way. The dialogue touches on the historical intersections between cognition and philosophy, and how perceptions can be seen as controlled hallucinations. Seth also examines consciousness across species and AI, revealing the fascinating complexities behind how we experience the world.

David Eagleman, a renowned neuroscientist from Stanford, dives into the brain's secrets and their impact on joy and happiness. He explores the complexities of mental imagery and how neuroscience intersects with society and legal practices. The discussion touches on genetics, environmental influences on mental health, and the interplay between belief and scientific understanding. Additionally, Eagleman speculates on the future of AI in education and the implications for consciousness, while highlighting the connection between diet and cognitive function.

Jaron Lanier, a renowned computer scientist and artist, delves into the intriguing relationship between AI and creativity. He explores how AI could transform, rather than threaten, artistic expression, arguing for a future where technology acts as a collaborative partner. Lanier discusses the importance of 'data dignity' and transparency, ensuring that the inputs for AI reflect diverse human contributions. Their conversation also emphasizes nurturing genuine human creativity and redefining economic incentives to support innovative artistic endeavors in an AI-driven landscape.