The World, the Universe and Us
New Scientist
From the evolution of intelligent life, to the mysteries of consciousness; from the threat of the climate crisis to the search for dark matter, The world, the universe and us is your essential weekly dose of science and wonder in an uncertain world. Hosted by journalists Dr Rowan Hooper and Dr Penny Sarchet and joined each week by expert scientists in the field, the show draws on New Scientist’s unparalleled depth of reporting to put the stories that matter into context. Feed your curiosity with the podcast that will restore your sense of optimism and nourish your brain.For more visit newscientist.com/podcasts
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 26, 2024 • 40min
CultureLab: Lucy Foulkes on how adolescence shapes us
Lucy Foulkes, an adolescent psychologist and author, dives into how teenage years sculpt our identities. She discusses the 'reminiscence bump' and why certain rebellious behaviors, like underage drinking, persist across generations. Foulkes highlights the significance of peer influence on emotional well-being and the complexity of adolescent risk-taking, stressing that these choices aren't merely impulsive. Parents are offered strategies to navigate this tumultuous period, balancing independence with the need for guidance in their teens' lives.
Aug 23, 2024 • 25min
Weekly: 1 in 5 coma patients have awareness; How to end the opioid crisis; ‘Wow’ space signal…is lasers?
Recent research reveals that 1 in 5 coma patients may have hidden awareness, challenging our understanding of consciousness. A new powerful drug aims to combat the opioid crisis, which claimed over 80,000 lives last year in the U.S. The mysterious Wow! signal from the 70s continues to captivate, with potential explanations ranging from astrophysical phenomena to alien communications. Also, baffling cooling trends in the Atlantic Ocean prompt scientists to rethink climate patterns and their global implications.
Aug 15, 2024 • 28min
Anxiety Special: The science of anxiety and how to make it work for you
Anxiety affects everyone differently and understanding its roots can help you take control. Discover how evolutionary responses shape anxiety and what happens in the brain during those moments. The genetic influences can play a role too, impacting how we experience anxiety. Learn about surprising benefits of anxiety and practical lifestyle changes to manage it better. Plus, find out how embracing eco-anxiety can inspire positive actions for the planet!
Aug 12, 2024 • 38min
CultureLab: The best science TV of the year – so far.
Join TV columnist Bethan Ackerley as she shares her top picks for the best science TV of 2024! Discover the unique superhero themes in 'Supacell' and the philosophical depths of 'The 3-Body Problem.' Bethan also explores the emotional impact of the documentary 'Better Off Dead' on assisted dying. Get excited about upcoming shows like 'Severance' season 2 and 'The Last of Us' season 2. With captivating series and documentaries to binge-watch, Bethan ensures you won't run out of options for your next cozy night in!
Aug 9, 2024 • 30min
Weekly: Deepest hole ever drilled in Earth’s mantle; Glitter on Mars; Quantum telepathy
Geologists have struck gold by drilling deeper into Earth's mantle than ever before, potentially unveiling secrets about the origins of life. Meanwhile, the evolutionary timeline of the 'hobbits' may need a rewrite as new findings suggest they evolved smaller statures much quicker than expected. On a cosmic scale, quantum telepathy could revolutionize stock trading by speeding up transactions at light speed, while a unique terraforming method involving glittery clouds may make Mars more hospitable for humans.
Aug 6, 2024 • 34min
Dead Planets Society: Can We Move the Sun?
Astrophysicist Jay Farihi from University College London joins for a cosmic adventure about moving the sun. The team explores playful and outlandish ideas, including using black holes as gravity tractors. They tackle the complexities of gravitational dynamics and ponder which planets could be sacrificed. Farihi shares imaginative concepts like sun sails and Dyson Spheres, while playful analogies help explain vast cosmic mechanics. The discussion wraps up with thoughts on the sun's mysteries and the wonders of future space travel.
Aug 2, 2024 • 34min
Weekly: The first life on Earth; Banana-shaped galaxies; When is smartphone use ‘problematic’?
Explore the ancient origins of life as researchers dissect 3.5 billion-year-old fossils that could redefine our understanding of early bacteria. Dive into the discovery of banana-shaped galaxies that challenge traditional cosmic models, thanks to advanced telescopes. Also, consider the fine line between smartphone use and addiction, especially in teenagers, as experts investigate its impact on mental health. This engaging conversation blends prehistoric mysteries with modern technology.
Jul 29, 2024 • 31min
CultureLab: Carlo Rovelli on the link between quantum physics and world peace
Carlo Rovelli, an Italian theoretical physicist known for his work on relational quantum mechanics, discusses how the fundamentals of the universe are driven by relationships rather than particles. He explores the political implications of science, suggesting that understanding quantum interactions could foster international collaboration and enhance global citizenship. Rovelli also highlights the importance of cooperation over competition, drawing parallels between nature and human society, and advocating for broadening social networks to improve community engagement.
7 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 34min
Weekly: Shocking source of deep sea oxygen; Alcohol really is unhealthy; ‘Green’ plastic downsides
Discover the unexpected role of metal-rich rocks in generating oxygen in the deep sea, challenging notions about marine ecosystems and mining practices. Explore new findings on alcohol, revealing that moderate drinking might not be as safe as once thought. Delve into the quest for the elusive element 120 and revolutionary methods in element synthesis. Uncover the troubling impacts of biodegradable plastics on soil health, and marvel at advancements in AI and astrophysics, including insights into a record-breaking cosmic explosion.
Jul 23, 2024 • 29min
Dead Planets Society: Can We Burn Uranus?
Planetary scientist Paul Byrne joins the Dead Planets Society to discuss the potential of burning Uranus for scientific advancement. The hosts explore spectroscopy, composition of ice giants, and the possibility of diamonds on Uranus. They humorously strategize ways to extract diamonds by impacting the planet with other celestial bodies. The conversation delves into the consequences of burning Uranus and invites listeners to suggest other cosmic objects for destruction.
