The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1068 - Dec 27 2025
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Dec 27, 2025 The hosts reflect on the tumultuous year of 2025, sharing personal anecdotes and discussing the importance of honest end-of-life conversations. They highlight significant scientific breakthroughs like gene therapies and quantum advances while lamenting funding cuts. The panel honors notable skeptics and scientists who passed away, and debates misinformation on social media. They also recognize contributions from key figures within the skeptical community and advocate for strategic optimism as they look forward to continued engagement in science and skepticism.
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Gene Therapy Momentum Amid Political Headwinds
- Despite political headwinds, 2025 saw major progress in gene therapies and personalized CRISPR approaches.
- Breakthroughs in CAR T-cell therapy and tailored CRISPR showed high clinical momentum before funding setbacks.
Personal Impact Of The 2025 L.A. Fires
- Kara described living through the January L.A. fires and the extreme, harmful air quality that clogged home filters within days.
- She treated patients who lost homes and noted long-term respiratory risk similar to 9/11 exposures.
Structural Fires Produce Dangerous Mixed Particulates
- Large wildfires produce complex airborne toxins from burning structures, not just vegetation, increasing health risks.
- Long-term mortality from smoke exposure can be difficult to measure but may rival other catastrophic exposures.