![Is the Universe a Simulation? Andrew Pontzen [Ep. 466]](https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts123/v4/9f/46/2c/9f462c9c-0f4a-ca11-3319-6a618362f399/mza_14552672367414455018.jpg/250x250bb.jpg)
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Can science, philosophy, and religion work together to address humanity's biggest questions? What lessons can the cosmos teach us about our place in the universe and the future of humanity? And how do we bring back that sense of curiosity that seems to have faded among professionals?
Here today to invite us into her daring quest to decode the universe’s secrets is the brilliant Kelsey Johnson. Kelsey is an accomplished astronomer, professor, and science communicator known for her groundbreaking work in astrophysics and her unique approach to blending science with philosophy and existential inquiry. She is a faculty member at the University of Virginia, where she has made significant contributions to the understanding of starburst galaxies, molecular clouds, and magnetic fields in the universe. Kelsey also founded the Dark Skies, Bright Kids program, which introduces rural communities to the wonders of astronomy.
Tune in to learn more about curiosity, the intersection of science and philosophy, and the universe’s mysteries.
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:13:06 What inspired Kelsey to write Into the Unknown
00:16:23 Why scientists lose their curiosity
00:18:33 Judging a book by its cover
00:24:18 Balancing science and philosophy
00:31:55 The role of religion in understanding science
00:37:21 The cosmic marshmallow test
00:47:04 Dark Skies, Bright Kids
00:50:53 The Fermi paradox and the search for extraterrestrial life
01:00:55 Changing perspectives in cosmology
01:05:48 Starburst galaxies
01:08:03 Molecular clouds and feedback
01:10:38 Magnetic fields
01:12:59 Arthur C Clarke’s three laws
01:19:31 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Kelsey Johnson:
π Get Into the Unknown on Amazon: https://a.co/d/5XW0bmG
βοΈ Follow Kelsey on Twitter: https://x.com/ProfKelsey
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Simulations today are powerful tools for exploring the mysteries of our universe, but how close can they come to replicating reality? Can we recreate everything through simulations, or are there limits we can’t overcome? And how do today’s powerful simulations shape our understanding of everything from galaxies to climate change?
Here today, to answer all of these questions and more, is none other than Andrew Pontzen. Andrew is a cosmologist and professor known for his expertise in using computer simulations to understand the universe. He’s the author of The Universe in a Box, where he unpacks the complexities of cosmic simulations and their surprising limitations. Pontzen’s work is at the cutting edge of how we model and predict phenomena ranging from galaxy formation to climate change, bridging theoretical physics with practical, big-picture questions about reality.
As we head toward an era where simulations and AI are central to scientific discovery, these questions are more important than ever.
Tune in to learn about the power and limitations of simulation!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
00:44 Is it possible to simulate reality?
04:49 Early simulation experiments
10:30 Fluid dynamics and weather simulations
13:51 Judging a book by its cover
16:01 End of the universe
19:13 Cosmic microwave background and spinning universes
24:11 Verification and validation
27:34 Big Bang controversy and the JWST
31:35 Galaxy simulations
42:23 Multiverse and quantum computing
48:58 Ethics and energy impact of high-performance computing
55:34 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Andrew:
π Get The Universe in a Box: https://a.co/d/2V7vuFR
βοΈ Follow Andrew on Twitter: https://x.com/apontzen
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Is reality fundamentally mathematical? Is our universe just one of many? And will we ever discover extraterrestrial life?
This week on Into the Impossible, I sit down with renowned physicist and machine learning expert Max Tegmark to discuss some of the most fundamental questions of our time! Tegmark has dedicated his career to uncovering the mathematical fabric of reality, proposing that our universe itself might be a vast mathematical structure and that we could be living in a multiverse of endless possibilities. His work goes beyond physics to tackle the transformative power and ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, an area where he believes humanity must tread carefully.
In the first part of this mind-bending interview, we discuss his mathematical universe hypothesis, the search for extraterrestrial life, and AI’s role in science. Tune in!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
00:49 The multiverse and mathematical structures
02:33 Theory of inflation and the multiverse
06:52 Levels of multiverses and mathematical structures
11:19 Quantum mechanics and classical mechanics
14:21 The relationship between theory and experiment
21:48 The search for extraterrestrial life
37:15 UFOs and military surveillance technology
41:19 Outro
Additional resources:
π Our Mathematical Universe by Max Tegmark: https://a.co/d/03qjhLD
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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What if the secret to saving millions of lives was hidden for years—overlooked, dismissed, and even rejected?
That’s the story behind the groundbreaking mRNA technology used in COVID-19 vaccines.
Today’s remarkable guest, Dr. Katalin Karikó—a Nobel laureate whose persistence and vision changed the course of medical history—shares how she overcame countless setbacks to drive one of the biggest breakthroughs in modern medicine.
Discover how a humble butcher’s daughter from Hungary developed the foundation for the COVID-19 vaccine and why mRNA could hold the key to curing cancer and other deadly diseases.
Tune in to learn more about the mRNA revolution that almost didn’t happen!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:06 Origin of the Hungarian phrase “Marslahok”
00:02:11 Judging a book by its cover
00:05:40 The definition of life and extraterrestrial life
00:09:28 Katalin’s early life and scientific curiosity
00:18:00 Understanding RNA and mRNA
00:24:43 Development of the COVID vaccine
00:28:44 The COVID vaccine controversy
00:35:41 Overcoming adversity and advice for young scientists
00:54:10 The future of mRNA research and dealing with pandemics
01:01:08 What was Katalin wrong about?
01:02:15 Outro
Additional resources:
π Get “Breaking Through: My Life in Science” by Dr. Katalin Karikó: https://a.co/d/cZjaFCw
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Is Earth truly one of a kind?
This question has fascinated humans for decades, and with today's advanced technology, we're finally able to explore it scientifically. In this episode, renowned astrophysicist Josh Winn joins us to discuss the fascinating world of exoplanets, planetary systems, and the quest to discover other habitable planets.
Josh shares the latest breakthroughs in exoplanet research, from unexpected discoveries like hot Jupiters to the ongoing efforts to detect Earth-like planets around distant stars. He also explores the challenges of studying planets light-years away and the exciting future missions that could reveal more about the universe beyond our solar system.
Tune in to learn more about exoplanets and life beyond our solar system!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:34 Rare Earth Hypothesis
00:06:04 The role of stars in exoplanet habitability
00:13:23 Judging a book by its cover
00:16:50 Could aliens detect Tokyo?
00:19:42 The Habitable Worlds Observatory
00:22:06 Methods for detecting exoplanets
00:25:21 The lazy method
00:30:03 Avi Loeb and Oumuamua
00:36:08 The nuts and bolts of Josh's work
00:44:29 The role of technology in detecting exoplanets
00:52:48 Why should young people be interested in exoplanets?
00:57:22 Outro
Additional resources:
π Get The Little Book of Exoplanets by Josh Winn: https://a.co/d/9PK4XFV
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered if your eyes were enough to capture all it has to offer? Spoiler alert: They’re not!
While our eyes are absolutely amazing, they are also full of flaws. Nearsightedness, astigmatism, and even pesky floaters! But did you know these same flaws are mirrored in the world’s most advanced telescopes?
In this episode, I discuss common eye deficiencies and explain how they affect our ability to observe the stars. I compare them to the optical imperfections in telescopes, such as chromatic and spherical aberration.
Tune in to learn more about nature’s first telescopes!
This episode is part 2 of a series where we’ll uncover even more intriguing insights about the connections between our eyes and telescopes, so stay tuned!
Check out part 1: https://youtu.be/lSbyohV1XSE
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:29 Deficiencies of the human eye
05:42 Deficiencies in telescopes
13:59 Conclusion
15:37 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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What are the leading theories of everything, and are we any closer to discovering the one true theory of everything?
In this 90-minute summit, some of the world’s top physicists—Max Tegmark, James Beacham, Stephon Alexander—go beyond the hype to explore the very heart of physics.
Einstein began the monumental task of unifying quantum mechanics with general relativity, but will we ever succeed in unifying all the forces of the universe? Can it be done? If so, when?
Join us for this thought-provoking discussion and find out!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:45 What is a theory of everything?
00:05:25 State of the field and personal perspectives
00:20:42 Experimental challenges
00:34:13 Mathematical foundations, the multiverse, and theoretical beauty
01:05:12 Where do we go from here?
01:14:23 Audience questions
01:25:35 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
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How can embracing mistakes, challenging common assumptions, and daring to be wrong lead to groundbreaking discoveries in cosmology?
Here to talk about why being wrong might actually be a good thing is the legendary astrophysicist Rocky Kolb. Rocky, a professor at the University of Chicago, is known for his work on the early universe and dark matter.
With decades of experience under his belt, Rocky explains the tricky balance between confidence and humility in science.
Tune in to learn more about the interplay of ego, humility, and science!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:55 Judging a book by its cover
04:29 Humility, ego and science
14:50 Controversies in cosmology
21:06 Neutrinos and dark matter
24:26 The role of data in cosmology
35:46 Ethics and responsibility in science
43:48 Arthur C Clarke questions
48:01 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Rocky Kolb:
π Blind Watcher Of The Sky: https://a.co/d/aw0qZDt
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
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Have you ever wondered how your eyes compare to a telescope?
The answer is more surprising than you might think! Today, we will look at the fascinating parallels between the human eye and one of the most powerful astronomical instruments - the telescope.
From lenses and apertures to light detection and color vision, we will explore how these two systems, one biological and the other mechanical, have strikingly similar properties.
Tune in to learn more about how nature's best telescope matches up with cutting-edge technology.
This episode is part 1 of a series where we’ll uncover even more intriguing insights about the connections between our eyes and telescopes, so stay tuned!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:29 How telescopes inspired me as a kid
06:24 Comparing the anatomy of the human eye to a telescope
12:51 Light sensitivity and resolution in the human eye
17:23 Color vision and polarization
21:03 Historical contributions and confirmation bias
25:41 How to improve our astronomical observations
28:39 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Can science and religion be reconciled to provide a deeper understanding of the universe? How do modern scientific discoveries, like quantum mechanics and cosmology, relate to ancient religious texts? And what role do consciousness and language play in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and spiritual belief?
Here today, to challenge conventional narratives about the relationship between science and religion is host of the Young Heretics podcast, Spencer Klavan! Spencer is an acclaimed author and scholar specializing in classics and literature. He is known for his work on cultural and political commentary, often focusing on the intersection of Western civilization, literature, and contemporary issues.
Tune in to discover ancient wisdom, modern science, and the long-lost link between the two!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Audio essay
00:24:31 Interview introduction
00:26:10 Judging a book by its cover
00:37:25 Reconciling the material with the immaterial
00:43:31 The cosmological argument
00:55:05 Is faith immune to falsifiability?
01:05:31 Aristotle and modern science
01:23:57 Audience questions
01:34:26 Masculinity, conservatism and homosexuality
01:41:16 Transgendarism, alchemy, and astrology
01:52:44 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Spencer:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/SpencerKlavan/
π Light of the Mind, Light of the World: https://a.co/d/fam2Tx5
π Young Heretics: https://www.youtube.com/@YoungHereticsShow
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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In 2022, I had the honor of delivering the commencement address at Brown University.
I used this incredible opportunity to talk about a personal hero of mine: Galileo Galilei. Galileo was a scientist like no other. He boldly challenged the status quo through his discoveries and relentlessly pursued the truth, even when persecuted for doing so. His journey offers timeless lessons for scientists today, especially for graduate students who will shape the future of science.
My goal with this lecture was to inspire the next generation of thinkers, and I hope it does the same for you.
Tune in to learn more about how Galileo set the gold standard for scientists.
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:02:06 My early days at Brown University
00:08:08 Galileo’s legacy
00:24:18 Losing the Nobel Prize
00:40:48 Interstellar dust and mistakes
00:46:48 My motto
00:48:29 Audience questions
01:03:39 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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What is the cosmic microwave background (CMB), and why is it essential in cosmology? What role do instruments like BICEP and the Simons Observatory play in studying the early universe? And is the multiverse real?
I had the absolute pleasure of discussing these questions with Dr. Hugh Ross, astrophysicist and founder of Reasons to Believe.
In our conversation, Hugh and I discuss my research on polarization signals in the cosmic microwave background (CMB), focusing on my work with the BICEP, POLARBEAR2, and Simons Array telescopes. These signals are key to understanding the inflationary event that shaped the early universe. We explore how ongoing data collection helps us learn more about the universe’s origins. I also share a brief overview of my spiritual journey, from a Catholic upbringing to atheism and now being a practicing Jew with agnostic beliefs.
Tune in to learn about the infant universe!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:40 Understanding the cosmic microwave background (CMB)
00:11:30 Cutting-edge technology, precision cosmology, and the inflation hypothesis
00:33:36 The biggest challenge with inflation
00:45:58 The role of the Simons Observatory
01:00:15 Presenting our data
01:02:47 Neutrinos
01:07:43 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Check out Reason to Believe:
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RTB_official
ποΈ Website: https://reasons.org/
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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A few weeks ago, I released a video about whether string theory’s biggest competitor, Loop Quantum Gravity, might have suffered a fatal blow.
The video sparked a lively debate across YouTube, with creators like Sabine Hossenfelder and Phil Halpern making reaction videos and Carlo Rovelli even reaching out to me personally, asking me to take it down.
Now, I want to clarify the situation and share my perspective on whether Loop Quantum Gravity is truly on its last legs—or if there’s more to the story.
Tune in to the Loop Quantum Gravity War!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:02 My initial video on loop quantum gravity
03:42 Quick recap of my correspondence with Carlo Rovelli
04:32 The problem with string theory and loop quantum gravity
09:25 Reacting to Sabine’s video
13:11 My final thoughts
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Check out the videos referenced:
π Sabine’s video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlHvW6k2bcM
ποΈ Phil’s video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5CzrLuCRS4
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Discrepancies between different measurements of the Hubble constant have caused a major crisis in cosmology.
Our guest today, the incredible Wendy Freedman, is at the forefront of efforts to resolve this tension. Known for her pioneering work on the Hubble Key Project and her important contributions to the measurement of the Hubble constant, Wendy is now using the James Webb Space Telescope to bring clarity to this debate.
With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complexity of cosmic measurements, there is no one better to shed light on this issue.
So, can the James Webb Space Telescope help solve one of the biggest puzzles in cosmology?
Tune in to this episode of Into the Impossible to find out!—
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:18 The role of JWST in solving the Hubble tension
04:01 Comparing different distance indicators
20:45 Standard sirens
34:05 Accurate cosmology vs. precision cosmology
36:35 Vera C. Rubin Observatory and Giant Magellan Telescope
42:50 Wendy’s take on dark energy
45:32 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Wendy Freedman:
π» Uni website: https://astro.uchicago.edu/people/wendy-l-freedman.php
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Is string theory actually science?
Many argue that string theory cannot be proven and should therefore be abandoned. For them, string theory is not science at all. But are they right?
I had the pleasure of discussing this with none other than Cumrun Vafa! Cumrun is a Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy in the Department of Physics at Harvard University, where he has been researching and teaching theoretical physics since 1985. His primary area of research is string theory.
In our interview, we discussed whether we should trust string theory, fine-tuning, and the message he'd put into a billion-year time capsule. We also talked about his book Puzzles to Unravel the Universe.
Tune in to learn about string theory!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:20 Judging a book by its cover
00:03:35 What is a puzzle versus a mystery?
00:06:06 Black hole entropy
00:08:12 Godel's Theorem: Are some puzzles not solvable?
00:12:04 Is string theory actually science?
00:17:15 Dimensional analysis
00:21:15 Singularities
00:28:31 ADS and 5 dimensions
00:30:48 String theory
00:34:49 Supersymmetry
00:40:22 On religion
00:52:45 A scorecard for physics
00:55:21 What would your "ethical will" be?
01:02:50 What have you accomplished that once seemed impossible?
01:06:30 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Cumrun Vafa:
π Puzzles to Unravel the Universe: https://a.co/d/iWnNDup
π» Cumrun’s website: https://www.cumrunvafa.org/
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
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Have we been completely wrong about the Higgs boson? What if it’s not what we think but something far more elusive? And what does the origin of mass in the universe have to do with music?
Here today to explore these mind-bending questions is theoretical physicist Matt Strassler. Matt is known for his work in particle physics, particularly in the context of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and quantum field theory. He has been involved in research on the Higgs boson, supersymmetry, and other topics in high-energy physics.
In our insightful interview, we dive into the mysteries of quantum physics, the nature of space, and how waves—not just particles—form the building blocks of reality.
Tune in to find out how the Higgs field gives mass to everything in the universe!
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:24 Deepak or Matt?
00:03:18 Judging a book by its cover
00:06:27 Energy, frequency, and vibration
00:11:53 What is a phib, and why should the reader care?
00:16:15 Galileo’s impact
00:20:51 The Higgs field and the Higgs boson
00:28:17 Fine-tuning problems of matter and anti-matter
00:33:57 Renormalization
00:38:59 The luminiferous ether
00:49:08 Why Mach didn’t play a part in Matt’s book
00:52:08 Inflation and the Higgs field
00:55:35 Rapid questions
01:03:21 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Matt Strassler:
π» Website: https://profmattstrassler.com/
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/mattstrassler
π Waves in an Impossible Sea by Matt Strassler: https://a.co/d/1E8MxT8
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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Are we alone in the universe?
I had the great pleasure of discussing this fundamental existential question with astrophysicist Dr. Luke Barnes and philosopher Dr. Jay Richards!
In this exciting discussion, we dove headfirst into the implications of the SETI project, the Rare Earth hypothesis, and the possibility of habitable planets in other solar systems. Together, we explored the probabilities and challenges of the search for extraterrestrial life, taking into account the vastness of the universe and the fine-tuning required for life to exist.
Tune in to find out more about the search for extraterrestrial life!
This debate was hosted by the Hoover Institution.
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:50 Cosmic fine-tuning
00:12:13 The Privileged Planet
00:21:09 When did the fine-tuning take place?
00:28:05 The SETI project
00:30:59 The lack of life on Mars
00:39:40 Why we’re so fascinated by this question
00:57:28 Quantum mechanics and Einstein’s relativity
01:02:01 Human exceptionalism
01:08:46 Science and religion
01:12:58 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Check out my incredible colleagues:
π Hoover Institution: https://www.hoover.org/
π Hoover Institution YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HooverInstitution
βοΈ Dr. Luke Barnes: https://x.com/lukebarnesastro/
βοΈ Dr. Jay Richards: https://x.com/drjayrichards/
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Is the universe hiding extra dimensions we can’t see? Could a graviton – a particle we haven’t even proven to exist – change everything we know about the cosmos? And what does the future of physics hold if the standard model fails?
Today, I sit down with the renowned cosmologist Dan Hooper to discuss some of the most complex and exciting theories in modern cosmology. Dan is a leading theoretical physicist at Fermilab and a professor at the University of Chicago, specializing in the mysteries of dark matter, the early universe, and extra dimensions.
In this thrilling episode, Dan and I explore how hidden dimensions and mysterious particles could fundamentally challenge our understanding of the universe!
Tune in!
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:12 Judging a book by its cover
03:00 The Kaluza–Klein theory
06:29 Extra dimensions and gravitons
14:05 Supersymmetry and spin-3/2 particles
19:16 The Desi experiment and neutrino mass
24:58 What has Dan been wrong about?
27:40 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Learn more about Dan:
πΆ The Spectral Distortions: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2sazg5S1hrbt5Rk4lxoVHy
ποΈ Why This Universe?: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbfIVYxgDnR3dicM18TwS8w
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Will we ever find the theory of everything? What’s the real difference between artificial intelligence and artificial wisdom? And do experimental physicists really need a deeper understanding of theory than the theorists themselves?
I had the incredible pleasure of diving into these profound questions with Curt Jaimungal, host of the popular podcast and YouTube channel Theories of Everything. In our insightful conversation, we explored the nature of theoretical physics, the role of experimental science, and the ongoing quest to understand the origins of the universe, from the Big Bang to the possibility of a cyclical cosmos.
Tune in.
Key Takeaways:
00:00:00 Intro
00:00:34 My goals in life
00:02:44 Artificial intelligence vs. artificial wisdom
00:09:20 Gödel's incompleteness theorem
00:19:55 Theoretical vs. experimental physics
00:27:00 What textbooks are there for experimental physics?
00:36:50 What's needed for a Theory of Everything?
00:40:56 What are the limits of experimental physics?
00:42:37 Free will, reductionism, and God
00:51:34 Eric Weinstein's geometric unity
00:59:12 Outro
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Check out Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal:
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdWIQh9DGG6uhJk8eyIFl1w
π» Website: https://www.curtjaimungal.org/
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
β¨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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What are tardigrades, and how did they end up on the moon?
I had the pleasure of exploring the evolution, resilience, and potential use cases of these microscopic creatures that can survive in extreme environments with Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham from Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe.
Enjoy!
—
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Intro
01:52 Are tardigrades colonizing the moon?
04:12 A little bit about myself
08:37 Ask the wrong expert
15:03 Why are tardigrades so terrifying?
16:50 Their extreme survival abilities
26:18 How they ended up on the moon
28:29 Can they survive on the moon?
33:41 Outro
—
Additional resources:
β‘οΈ Check out Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe:
ποΈ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daniel-and-jorge-explain-the-universe/id1436616330
π§ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5t4keSVD2zRQuUEtwuoq4V
—
β‘οΈ Follow me on your fav platforms:
βοΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating
π YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
π Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
βοΈ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
ποΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
—
Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.
Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
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