Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

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!

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.