Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

In this conversation, Jeff Hawkins, a renowned theoretician and author of "A Thousand Brains," unveils groundbreaking insights into how our brain processes information. He explores the idea that instead of one singular model of reality, our brains may operate with multiple models simultaneously. Hawkins distinguishes how our perception is formed through distinct cortical columns, enhancing rapid decision-making. He also raises intriguing questions about AI's ability to truly understand environments, highlighting the philosophical implications of our sensory experiences.

David Eagleman hosts Sara Walker, a theoretical physicist from Arizona State University and author of "Life as No One Knows It." Together, they dive into the perplexing definitions of life and what distinguishes the living from the inanimate. The conversation flirts with ancient philosophies, assembly theory, and the hypothetical discovery of a cell phone on Mars. They explore the complexity of potential extraterrestrial life and the nuances between human intelligence and AI, ultimately challenging listeners to redefine their understanding of existence.

In this discussion, David Eagleman, a renowned neuroscientist specializing in brain science and decision-making, explores the mind's intricate processes when faced with choices. He delves into how conflicting neural networks influence even simple decisions and examines how past experiences and prediction errors shape our actions. Eagleman links cognitive biases to societal events like the 2008 economic crash and advocates for understanding addiction through impulse control rather than legal punishment, emphasizing rehabilitation over retribution.

Explore the fascinating world of decision-making and how our brains juggle options, from choosing a meal to monumental life choices. Discover the role of emotions and logic in our thought processes, and learn about the competition between neural networks when faced with conflicting options. Delve into how technology influences our decision-making, and see how past experiences like brain injuries impact our choices. The podcast intertwines ancient philosophy with modern neuroscience, making for a captivating journey into how we decide.

Explore the science behind laughter and its physiological effects on us. Discover why jokes often come in threes and how humor serves as a social bonding tool. Learn about the unique relationship between humor and tragedy, and how we find laughter in painful experiences over time. Investigate whether other animals can laugh and how their laughter strengthens social bonds. Dive into the complexities of human laughter, its cultural significance, and the limitations of AI in grasping what makes us truly funny.

Mark Matson, an author and expert on cognitive biases, dives into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and investing. He discusses how cognitive illusions can mislead investors, highlighting the dangers of biases like herding and familiarity. Matson uses historical examples, such as Kodak and Blockbuster, to illustrate the perils of emotional decision-making. He also introduces the Ulysses contract to help investors maintain discipline and avoid self-deception, emphasizing the need for systematic approaches in financial choices.

Delve into the concept of 'theory of mind' and why it’s central to understanding others, from poker players to novelists. Explore how empathy shapes human interactions and the challenges AI faces in simulating such complex emotional landscapes. Examine thought experiments revealing AI's limitations in recognizing true understanding versus mere imitation. Lastly, consider the implications of AI’s evolving capabilities on future intelligence and our interactions with machines.

Explore the fascinating world of memory and its reliability. Discover how narratives we tell ourselves can be reshaped and misremembered, influencing our identities. Delve into the powerful case of the Beatrice-6, where memory malleability led to wrongful convictions. Consider how technology alters our recollections and personal histories. Finally, reflect on the evolving nature of memory and how significant events can distort our sense of self. Prepare for a mind-bending journey through the intricacies of human memory!

David Eagleman, a renowned neuroscientist and expert in human memory and cognition, takes listeners on a thought-provoking journey into the nature of memory. He discusses how recollections, like medieval art of lions, can be distorted over time and shaped by cultural influences. The podcast dives into concepts like flashbulb memories and misinformation, revealing the role of external factors in altering our perceptions of significant events. Through compelling case studies, Eagleman unpacks the flawed yet fascinating dynamics of memory and its impact on our identities.

Discover why you suddenly notice things everywhere after seeing them just once. Explore the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon and how it relates to attention and memory. Uncover the science behind selective attention, using captivating examples like inattentional blindness from thrilling Olympic moments. Dive into the complexities of human perception, including cognitive biases and the intriguing ways our brains recognize patterns. Finally, unravel how psychological factors influence our interpretation of reality and the frequency illusion.