Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

Sam Arbesman, a complexity scientist and author of 'The Magic of Code,' joins to explore the enchanting similarities between computer code and magic. He discusses how code influences our daily lives and the challenges posed by increasingly complex systems. Arbesman delves into AI-generated code, the historical context of language, and hidden connections in science. He also draws fascinating parallels between coding and biological systems, highlighting creativity in programming and envisioning a future where coding is revered like art.

Michael Levin, a Tufts University professor and expert in developmental biology, dives into the fascinating world of unconventional intelligences. He challenges conventional definitions by exploring how intelligence may manifest outside of traditional brains, from bipedal dogs to resilient cells. Levin suggests that even simple organisms showcase complex problem-solving abilities, urging listeners to rethink intelligence. The conversation probes philosophical questions about consciousness and the potential of recognizing the diverse minds that may exist around us.

Join mathematical physicist Roger Penrose, 2020 Nobel Prize winner, and anesthesiologist Stuart Hameroff as they probe the mysterious ties between consciousness and quantum physics. They discuss whether consciousness could precede biology, explore the potential role of microtubules in brain function, and examine the implications of quantum coherence for decision-making and free will. This engaging conversation challenges listeners to rethink traditional neuroscience models and consider how quantum mechanics might reshape our understanding of awareness.

Explore the origins and physicality of thoughts, akin to a peach tree bearing its fruit. Discover how internal dialogue shapes your daily experiences and the complexities behind those thoughts. Delve into the wonders of nonverbal thinking and the challenges of obsessive-compulsive disorder, including the need for specialized therapy. Uncover how the brain uses mental rehearsals to navigate outcomes and enhance learning. Finally, reflect on the multifaceted nature of thoughts and how they contribute to your identity.

In this enlightening discussion, Jordan Peterson, a renowned psychologist and author known for his insights on personal development, explores the complexities of human consciousness. He delves into the idea of competing neural drives and how these shape our identities. The talk highlights the role of literature and religion in personal growth, the dynamics of individuality, and the importance of navigating aggression for success. Peterson reflects on the power of storytelling in community building and the significance of role models in moral decision-making.

In this engaging conversation, Bruce Hood, an experimental psychologist and author of 'The Science of Happiness,' explores the multi-faceted nature of happiness. He delves into how genetics, social ties, and individual mindsets shape our well-being. The discussion covers the influence of technology on our happiness and the importance of personal connections. Hood emphasizes actionable strategies like optimism, journaling, and altruism to enhance happiness. Ultimately, he presents happiness as a personal journey influenced by choices and relationships.

This week, David Eagleman is joined by Joshua Landy, a Stanford comparative literature scholar, who co-teaches 'Literature and the Brain.' They dive into the fascinating link between storytelling and brain function. Discover why narratives enchant us, the cognitive shortcuts they exploit, and how great authors resemble magicians. The discussion spans the psychological impacts of stories, from enhancing empathy to the nuances of cognitive biases and the importance of deep literary engagement in understanding ourselves and others.

In this engaging discussion, Jeffrey Zacks, a cognitive scientist from Washington University, unpacks the fascinating interplay between brain function and film. He explores how movies manipulate our perception of reality and elicit emotional responses through intricate storytelling techniques. Zacks highlights the brain's ability to blend reality and fiction, creating a unique experience, and addresses why animals like dogs struggle with narrative. He also looks at the future of interactive media, merging films and video games, challenging our understanding of shared storytelling.

Alison Gopnik, a Professor of Psychology at Berkeley, dives into the debate on whether AI should be seen as an intelligent agent or merely a cultural technology. She explores how historical narratives and tools shape our understanding of technology's role in society. The discussion highlights AI's limitations, emphasizing that it reflects human knowledge rather than possesses intelligence. Gopnik also critiques traditional views on intelligence, advocating for a nuanced approach to understanding AI's evolution and societal impact.

Russell Hurlburt, a psychology professor at the University of Nevada, offers insights into the hidden layers of our thoughts. He introduces his innovative technique, descriptive experience sampling, which uses random beeps to catch real-time thoughts, revealing how many don't rely on language. The conversation explores the diversity of internal experiences, highlighting unsymbolized thinking and the impact of attention on thought processes. Hurlburt also discusses how understanding these intricacies can enhance self-awareness and shed light on mental health, including conditions like depression and schizophrenia.