Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

Daniel Levitin, a neuroscientist, musician, and author, dives into the fascinating connection between music and the brain. He explores how sound can evoke deep emotions and memories, even helping those with dementia. The conversation touches on music’s potential to aid conditions like Parkinson's disease, highlighting its universal appeal while considering cultural influences. Levitin also discusses the evolution of music's role in language development and the interplay of novelty and familiarity in our musical experiences.

Joining David Eagleman is Michael Levin, a developmental biologist renowned for his work on bioelectricity and regeneration. They explore the emergence of self from the brain's categorization abilities. Levin shares insights from observing metamorphosis in caterpillars and ant colonies, challenging conventional ideas of identity. They delve into the rubber hand illusion, showcasing the brain's adaptability. The discussion reveals how memories are fluid constructs, evolving over time and shaping our understanding of who we are.

Explore the intriguing connection between personal identity and cellular change. Discover how philosophical concepts like the Ship of Theseus illuminate our sense of self. Delve into the end-of-history illusion and how it affects our decisions about our future selves. Learn about the transient nature of memory and the evolving relationships that shape who we are. Contemplate the mysteries of the afterlife and what it might mean for our eternal selves. Join the discussion about the complexities of existence and the fluidity of identity.

In this discussion, longevity expert Martin Borch Jensen, co-founder of Gordian Biotechnology, delves into the intricacies of extending human life. He addresses why it's easier to prolong lifespan in simpler organisms than in humans. Jensen also explores how societal norms around aging might change if lifespans increase dramatically. The conversation highlights innovative research in aging mechanisms and the potential ethical challenges we face as we seek to live longer lives. Prepare to rethink aging and the future of longevity!

Why do our brains conjure such bizarre dreams? The show dives into the mechanics of dreaming, exploring why our phones rarely make an appearance. Discover universal dream themes that resonate across cultures, like falling or being chased, highlighting our shared biology. The link between mental health and dreaming is examined, alongside intriguing facts about the color of dreams. Plus, insights into how childhood experiences shape adult dreamscapes, and a nod to the impact of black and white media on dream perception.

Jonathan Downar, a psychiatrist and neuroscience expert who co-authored the textbook 'Brain and Behavior,' joins the discussion on depression's complexity. He delves into how depression can be an evolutionary survival mechanism and the intriguing connections between brain function, emotional resilience, and societal influences. The conversation also covers innovative treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), challenging traditional views on serotonin, and the need for a holistic approach to mental health, much like addressing social issues linked to tuberculosis.

Explore the fascinating nature of perception and how it varies between individuals. Discover why some sounds can be heard differently based on the words we focus on. Delve into the brain's role in creating rich visual experiences, even with eyes closed. Learn about the mysterious cases of fake crosswalk buttons and how our past experiences shape what we see. From 'The Dress' to auditory puzzles, uncover the intricate relationship between expectation and reality.

The podcast dives into how extreme fear influences our perception of time, often making moments feel longer. It features thrilling anecdotes and a bold experiment where volunteers are dropped from a tower to test this phenomenon. Discover how the amygdala shapes our temporal experiences and the intriguing link between stress and memory density. Additionally, learn how to enhance your awareness and make time feel richer by disrupting daily routines, plus a fun exploration of horror in film and its ties to historical anecdotes.

Marilu Henner, an actress renowned for her role in 'Taxi,' shares her experience as one of the few individuals with highly superior autobiographical memory. She discusses the fascinating yet challenging aspects of her extraordinary recall, answering whether it's a blessing or a burden. Henner delves into how remembering every detail from the past shapes her identity. The conversation also touches on memory's role in resilience and personal growth, alongside unique techniques for enhancing one's recollection and mindfulness in everyday life.

In this insightful discussion, cognitive neuroscience professor Joel Pearson explores the intriguing spectrum of mind's eye, mind's ear, and mind's tongue. He dives into aphantasia and hyperphantasia, revealing how these conditions uniquely shape perception and creativity. Pearson shares captivating insights on how artists with aphantasia navigate their craft without mental imagery. He also discusses individual memory strategies, the effects of sensory differences on emotional engagement, and the broader implications for understanding consciousness. A fascinating look at our internal worlds!