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Episodes
Mentioned books

13 snips
May 17, 2021 • 2min
Pessimism Seems Like an Intellectually Serious Position
The discussion dives into the clash between pessimism and optimism in both academia and entrepreneurship. It reveals how a pessimistic outlook can stifle creativity and teamwork, while an optimistic mindset fuels innovation and success. The exploration highlights the importance of perspective in shaping progress and collaboration. Themes of intellectual rigor versus positive thinking create a thought-provoking narrative on how we approach challenges in both fields.

8 snips
May 14, 2021 • 2min
It’s Easy to Extrapolate How Things Will Get Worse
Delve into the fascinating misconceptions about artificial general intelligence and its connection to computational power. The discussion highlights contrasting views on resource consumption versus innovation. Additionally, it examines our psychological tendencies towards pessimism when predicting the future, revealing how humanity's instinctual survival strategies shape our outlook.

13 snips
May 12, 2021 • 1min
We’re All Equal in Our Infinite Ignorance
Dive into the intriguing world of scientific exploration where creativity takes center stage. Learn why prioritizing explanation over mere prediction is crucial for progress. The conversation emphasizes that science thrives on fresh perspectives and innovation, reminding us that anyone, regardless of expertise, can contribute to its evolution.

12 snips
May 11, 2021 • 3min
It’s Rare to Have Competing, Viable, Scientific Theories
Delve into the complexities of scientific theories and the balance of probability at play. Discover Solomonoff induction’s role in shaping scientific understanding. The discussion highlights the challenges of evaluating innovative explanations and the integration of Bayesian methods. Tune in for an engaging exploration of how complexity influences scientific thought.

9 snips
May 7, 2021 • 1min
Science Advances One Funeral at a Time
Delve into the intriguing clash between quantum theories and traditional science. Discover how Richard Feynman's path integrals relate to multiverse theory and the debate surrounding them. The discussion also highlights the struggle of innovative concepts, like cryptocurrencies, against conventional skepticism. Join the conversation as it navigates the complexities of embracing new ideas in the ever-evolving landscape of science and technology.

15 snips
May 5, 2021 • 2min
Make Bold Guesses and Weed Out Failures
Dive into the importance of creativity in driving innovation and developing theories. Discover how trial and error shape complex systems, with historical examples showcasing creative breakthroughs. Learn why embracing bold guesses is essential for advancing both scientific ideas and practical applications. Explore how thinking outside the box can lead to unexpected solutions and breakthroughs.

7 snips
May 3, 2021 • 3min
Theories Are Explanations, Not Predictions
Explore the intriguing distinction between scientific explanations and predictions. The discussion delves into how understanding the reasons behind phenomena, like heating water, is more valuable than merely extrapolating from data. This deeper comprehension enables clearer insights and better decision-making. Tune in for a thought-provoking examination of how we conceptualize knowledge!

9 snips
Apr 30, 2021 • 2min
Science Is an Error-Correcting Mechanism
Discover the intriguing shortcomings of induction in scientific reasoning and how they challenge our understanding of the future. The black swan example serves as a powerful metaphor for unpredictability, highlighting that past patterns don't guarantee future outcomes. Dive into the concept of science as a dynamic error-correcting mechanism, showcasing its ability to adapt and refine our knowledge over time.

9 snips
Apr 28, 2021 • 2min
Science Broadens Our Vision of Reality
Dive into the intriguing realm of the multiverse, where every universe operates under shared physical laws. Discover how our perception of reality has evolved throughout history. This exploration reveals the continuous expansion of our understanding of the cosmos and challenges us to rethink what we know.

7 snips
Apr 26, 2021 • 1min
We Explain the Seen in Terms of the Unseen
Dive into the clash between what we can see and the unseen forces that shape our understanding of science. Delve into fascinating topics like the mysteries behind dinosaurs and the complexities of stellar fusion. Challenge your perceptions as the hosts reveal how much of science relies on concepts that go beyond direct observation, urging listeners to rethink the very foundations of scientific inquiry.