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
Dec 26, 2023 • 31min
CultureLab: The best books of 2023, from joyful escapism to sobering reads
In this episode, the hosts discuss their favorite books of 2023, including a sobering story of life in a human-polluted ocean narrated by a dolphin, science fiction that takes you to parallel worlds, and the world's longest study of happiness. They also cover topics such as the selection process for the New Scientist book club, intriguing book discussions, escapist reads, exploring empathy, and upcoming exciting books like 'The Mars House' and 'The Lock Tomb'.
Dec 22, 2023 • 30min
Best of 2023, part 1: Euclid telescope’s big year; AI is everywhere (for better and worse); why doctors searched their poo for tiny toys
In this special episode, the hosts discuss the funniest and most futuristic science stories of 2023. Topics include the Euclid Space Telescope mapping the universe, generative AI flooding Clarkesworld magazine with poorly written stories, and doctors searching their poo for LEGO toys. They also talk about advancements in science and technology, including CRISPR gene editing and the Pope's fashion choices influenced by AI.
Dec 19, 2023 • 40min
CultureLab: A duet between music and the natural world with Erland Cooper’s playful compositions
Composer Erland Cooper discusses his innovative projects, including burying audio compositions and creating treasure hunts. His newest album, Folded Landscapes, explores the environment and climate change. The podcast explores the power of music and nature, collaborative compositions with nature, creating a composition using different temperature settings, and exploring the natural world through music.
Dec 17, 2023 • 26min
Science of cannabis: #3 The weed of the future
Explore the future of cannabis production, including increasing potency and different methods of consumption. Discover the challenges of assessing impairment from cannabis use for driving and the need for further research. Learn about the high environmental costs of cannabis cultivation and the potential for sustainable practices. Dive into the chemistry of cannabis smell and the bioengineering of cannabinoids using yeast. Discover the benefits of microbial fermentation in producing cannabinoids.
Dec 15, 2023 • 27min
Weekly: New climate deal at COP28; AI mathematician; a problem with the universe
Recent climate deal at COP28 raises questions about its effectiveness in transitioning away from fossil fuels. Google Deepmind's AI chatbot makes scientific discoveries, despite majority of output being useless. Arctic seals' intricate nose bones help them retain heat and moisture. Discrepancies in measuring matter clumping on large scales point to gaps in our understanding of the universe.
Dec 12, 2023 • 18min
CultureLab: The Royal Flying Doctors - Saving lives in the Australian outback
Learn about the life-saving work of Australia's Royal Flying Doctor Service in providing emergency healthcare to remote areas. Hear incredible rescue stories involving motorbike crashes and broken bones. Discover the vital role the RFDS plays in delivering urgent medical care in the vast Australian outback.
Dec 10, 2023 • 27min
Science of cannabis: #2 The anatomy of a high
Explore the effects of cannabis on the brain and body, including memory, creativity, and perception of time. Learn about the limitations on cannabis study and government-sanctioned products. Discover the influence of the endocannabinoid system on our health and the potential medical benefits of cannabis.
Dec 8, 2023 • 29min
Weekly: IBM’s powerful new quantum computers; climate wins and flops at COP28; our sweet partnership with honeyguide birds
IBM's new quantum computers Condor and Heron have significantly increased computational power and reduced errors. COP28 climate summit shows promise but faces challenges such as funding targets and involvement of fossil fuel stakeholders. An antibody treatment shows potential in protecting against fentanyl overdoses. Honeyguide birds in Africa form a unique partnership with humans to find honey. Other topics: DNA nanorobots for medical purposes and the neuroscience of jokes.
Dec 5, 2023 • 27min
CultureLab: Teaching science through cooking with Pia Sorenson’s real life ‘Lessons in Chemistry’
Real-life scientist Pia Sorenson, director of Harvard University's Science and Cooking program, explains how understanding chemistry and biology can help create the perfect cheese sauce. She also offers a masterclass in fermentation, teaches why your avocado goes brown, and describes how to make Lutfisk, Sweden's gelatinous answer to ceviche. Science cooking, molecular gastronomy, and the science behind making Gravelax are also explored.
Dec 1, 2023 • 25min
Weekly: Biggest climate summit since Paris; thanking dirt for all life on Earth; what if another star flew past our solar system?
This podcast discusses the upcoming COP28 climate summit and the potential influence of fossil fuel interests; explores how nutrient-rich soil contributed to the evolution of life on Earth; examines the possibilities and consequences of another star entering our solar system; reveals the electric sensing ability of dolphins; and delves into the unique sleep habits of chinstrap penguins.
