The podcast explores the brain's capacity for simulating possible futures and how it shapes our lives. Topics discussed include why we can't tickle ourselves, the challenges individuals with schizophrenia face in predicting their own actions, and the role of prediction in decision-making and the natural world. The ability of animals to engage in mental time travel, the relationship between memory and imagination in prediction making, and the power of science and storytelling in predicting the future are also explored.

Explore the concept of memory storage and retrieval, and how it differs from computer memory. Learn about individuals with extraordinary memory abilities and their impact on research. Delve into explicit and implicit memories, and the role of the amygdala and hippocampus. Discover the connection between memory and spatial awareness. Also, experience podcast ads for shows and pizza deals.

This podcast explores the role of AI in the future of fake news and misinformation, discussing its connection to our brain's internal models and voice passwords. It delves into the impact of generative AI on disinformation and truth and highlights the potential dangers of AI voice generation. The podcast also discusses AI manipulation and social influence, as well as the challenges and potential issues of building AI oracles.

The podcast explores the role of emotion and personal belief in shaping public opinion, the historical context of censorship and propaganda, the power of the internet in providing access to information, Chinese government's filtering of Google search results and advertisements, internet censorship and state control of information, and various podcast ads and call for listener engagement.

Explore the illusion of truth and cognitive biases, the complexity of truth and multiple perspectives, and the power of storytelling in determining truth. Discuss the influence of photography and technology on the perception of truth and the challenges of seeking truth in a complex world. Delve into the impact of AI on the future of truth and the importance of intellectual humility and dialogue.

Explore the future of AI relationships and their impact on human connections. Discuss the potential benefits and downsides of AI avatars in relationships. Examine the limitations of AI partners in physical intimacy and touch. Dive into the emotional impact and potential of AI voices in relationships. Discover the perception of AI relationships as a threat and the importance of connections.

This podcast explores the surprises of brain plasticity, from the trade-off between adaptability and efficiency, to the influence of sensitive periods on language acquisition. It also discusses the variability of the brain and the possibility of unlocking its plasticity at any age.

This podcast explores the intersection between the legal system and neuroscience. It discusses topics such as the insanity defense, the Twinkie Defense, and using premenstrual syndrome as a criminal defense. The podcast also delves into real-life cases, the challenges of determining insanity, and the evolution of the insanity defense. It concludes by emphasizing the complexity of society and available resources at eagelman.com/podcast.

Eagleman answers listener questions about the importance of connections, AT&T's specialization in connectivity, BarkBox's dog treats and toys delivery service, Operation Smile's free cleft surgery for children, the government hiding evidence of aliens, the likelihood of intelligent civilizations in the cosmos, the scientific mindset, the impact of neuroscience on personal experience, and the exploration of the concept of free will.

Exploring the insanity defense in the legal system and the difficulty in determining the boundaries of 'insanity'. The case of a mother killing her children to save them from eternal punishment. Examining guilt and intent in criminal liability and the creation of the McNaughton rule. The complexities of the insanity defense and the challenge of defining the line between sanity and insanity.