Modern warfare increasingly utilizes robotic weaponry. Yet, the rules of robotic engagement have not been developed as completely as the technology. On this program, Dr. P.W. Singer discussed the challenges of robotic warfare.
Topics: science, robots, war, technology, battlefield technology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Symmetry or parity is intriguing, not only in the arts and music, but also in science and the natural world. Interestingly, parity may not be conserved between the mirror images of molecules and consequently their energies would not be equivalent. On this program, Professor Harris and Gina discussed how parity violation could be observed using sum frequency generation experiments.
Topics: science, symmetry, parity violation, physics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Srinivasa Ramunujan was one of the most brilliant, self-taught mathematicians of his time. The story of his life and relationship with Cambridge Professor, Thomas Hardy, is the subject of the new play, Partition, and was discussed on this program.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The Constitution guarantees five fundamental freedoms, but a free culture requires openness amongst its citizens. On this program, Mitch Kapor discussed the Open Source movement as it pertains to software and other aspects of technology and life.
Topics: science, open source
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Can art exist without human observers? Or, is art wholly an expression of the unique capacities of the human brain? On this program, we examined how the organization of the human brain could give rise to artistic expression with Prof. Semir Zeki from University College London.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Although love is often said to make the world go round, most might concede that sex is the real prime mover. On this program, Faye Flam discussed how the quest for sex has shaped the modern man.
Topics: science, evolution, sexuality
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Written language has evolved as a unique human trait for communicating ideas. But, how have human brains evolved to read and write? On this program, Prof. Maryanne Wolf discussed the evolution and development of the reading brain.
Topics: science, reading, neuroscience
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Music has powerful emotive and expressive qualities that transcend its description as a purely physical phenomenon. This is of course due to how the brain processes musical information. On this program, Prof. Daniel Levitin discussed the musical brain.
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Topics: science, music, neurobiology
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Crickets, cicadas, and katydids are the noise makers among the insects. But, how are their sounds distinguished from one another? On this program, Lang Elliot discussed the songs of insects.
Topics: science, insects
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Drugs are a ubiquitous part of modern life. However, separating the facts from the myths about drug use can often be a challenge. On this program, Prof. Cynthia Kuhn discussed the science of drugs.
Topics: science, drugs
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Mathematics is often regarded as highly abstract, yet many fundamental explanations about the natural world have come from seemingly arcane mathematical research. On this program, Prof. James Stein discussed how math explains the world.
Topics: science, mathematics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Randomness is a fundamental part of natural physical phenomena. Yet, it is often unappreciated how these stochastic processes affect our daily lives. On this program, Dr. Leonard Mlodinow discussed the random walk.
Topics: science, probability, statistics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The history of ancient human civilization is mysterious almost by definition. While many archaeologists agree with the general timeline taught in school, others believe something is drastically wrong with this theory. On this episode, journalist Graham Hancock presents an alternative story of civilization’s past. using evidence from geology, archaeology, and global myths
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Topics: Graham Hancock, geology, archaeology, history, ancient, civilization, comet, atlantis
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
A live Groks Science talk show from June 15th, 2016! Topics include gravitational waves, a potential pollution solution, resilience of coral in the Great Barrier Reef, association between social media use and depression, a 3rd sex in bearded dragons, the obfuscation of the night sky, complex bone engineering, the origins of King Tut's dagger, 4 newly named elements, entertainers endorsing junk food, and chiral molecules in space.
Topics: science, groks, news, biology, physics, astronomy, psychology, chemistry
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
While the incident that occurred in Roswell, NM is nearly 60 years old, theories and speculation remain as to what occurred. On this program, Donald Schmitt discussed investigations into the Roswell incident. Special note: this is the "Independence Day" episode. If you don't get the joke, search the IMDB.
Topics: science, roswell, UFO
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
From killer viruses to the infinite digits of pi, science is continually confronting the unknown. But, what science uncovers may be unsettling at times. On this program, Richard Preston discussed journeys to the edge of science in Panic in Level 4.
Topics: science, viruses, computers, genetics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
What can super-massive black holes tell us about the nature of our galaxy and the universe. On this program, Dr. Caleb Scharf discussed astrophysics and black holes.
Topics: science, technology, gravity, black holes, physics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Space travel was once the sole domain of large government agencies, but is now becoming available for private citizens. On this program, we discussed space travel for the general public.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Camera traps have enabled a fascinating view of animals in their native habitat. On this episode, Roland Kays discussed the creatures observed by camera traps.
Topics: science, biology, ecology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The life and times of mathematician John F. Nash Jr. have garnered a great deal of attention since the release of the popular movie, A Beautiful Mind, chronicled events in his life. This show featured an interview with Sylvia Nassar, the author of Nash's biography, who discussed Nash's struggles with math, schizophrenia, and the Nobel Prize.
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Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
While superstring theory dominates the landscape of unified field theories, alternative theories exist, such as twister theory. On this program, Sir Roger Penrose discussed the structure of the universe and quantum consciousness.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Understanding the key concepts in science requires a knowledge of the language of science. On this program, Steve Kleinedler discussed science words every college graduate should know.
Topics: science, vocabulary
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Cogito Ergo Sum. I think therefore I am. The philosophy of Rene Descartes has impacted modern society in many arenas from the sciences to the foundations of democratic governments. On this program, Russell Shorto discussed the history of Cartesian philosophy. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Jeffery A. Winer, friend and mentor.
Topics: science, descartes, dualism, philosophy
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Astronomers searching for extrasolar worlds have recently discovered several fascinating planets orbiting other stars. On this program, Dr. Jason Wright discussed the science and technology behind the search for extrasolar worlds.
Topics: science, astronomy, extrasolar, planets
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Living a long and healthy life is possible with the right combination of food and exercise. And, new research is demonstrating the importance of polyphenols, such as resveratrol. On this program, Dr. Joseph Maroon discussed the longevity factor.
Topics: science, longevity, diet, exercise, resveratrol, polyphenols
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Faster than a speeding bullet? Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound? Superman may be confined to the comics, but could his superpowers exist in the natural world? On this program, Prof. James Kakalios discussed the Physics of Superheroes
Topics: science, physics, superheroes
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The remarkable construction of the human body often provokes many questions, especially among children, but providing the answers may stump most adults. On this program, Dr. Beth Ann Ditkoff discussed how the body works. In addition, Prof. Mason Porter discussed Oxford mathematics.
Topics: science, medicine, human body, physiology
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Our solar system contains nine acknowledged planets, each with their own unique personalities that continue to inspire scientists. On this episode, Dava Sobel discussed her perspective of the planets.
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Topics: science, astronomy, planets, solar system
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Since the theory of quantum mechanics became accepted, almost a century ago, we’ve had to get used to living in a world of quantum leaps, Schrodinger’s cats and uncertainty principles. But how well do we really understand the major philosophical implications of quantum mechanics? Today we’ll talk with Dr. Robert Crease, professor of philosophy at Stony Brook University, about how terms from quantum mechanics have found their way into everyday discourse and provided a new set of metaphors...
Topics: quantum mechanics, physics, philosophy, metaphors, Robert Crease
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Is it possible for corporate and societal interests to coincide in the modern business world? On this program, Andrew Savitz discussed this intersection and the triple bottom line.
Topics: science, environment, business, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The Zika virus has become an epidemic in Brazil, so much so that it has caused many to question holding the Olympic games in Brazil. On this episode, Dr. Joe Alton discussed the Zika Virus and the Olympics.
Topics: science, olympics, zika, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
In this interview with Marcelo Gleiser we talk about his 2014 book, "The Island of Knowledge" and then hear a little about his new book "The Simple Beauty of the Unexpected".
Topics: science, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Most of us know earthquakes by their ground breaking nature but what has intrigued seismologists recently are silent earthquakes. On this program, Paul Segall discussed the significance of these imperceptible ground movements. Chuck McMinn also joined us to discuss combined heat and power energy systems at his winery Vineyard 29.
Topics: science, earthquakes, seismology, energy
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Dark matter and dark energy comprise most of the known universe. But, what are the constituents of dark matter and energy? On this program, Dr. Dan Hooper from Fermilab discussed the dark cosmos.
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Topics: science, dark matter, physics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The recent landing of the Mars Explorer rover has renewed interest in the red planet. On this program, we talked with Andrew Mishkin, a senior systems at NASA, about the status of past, present, and future missions to Mars.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Gorillas are genetically very similar to humans, however our behavior seems widely divergent. But, we may have more in common with our primate relatives than one might suspect. On this program, Andrew Grant discussed lessons from gorilla behavior.
Topics: science, neuroethology, animal behavior
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Large numbers and statistics constantly bombard us in the news, but putting those numbers into context is essential for understanding their real meaning. On this program, Andrew Dilnot from Oxford University discussed the numbers game.
Topics: science, mathematics, numbers, statistics
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
What is the cause of the current epidemic obesity and can a starch diet be of benefit? On this program, Dr. John McDougall discussed the starch solution.
Topics: science, nutrition, diet, starch, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The Riemann Hypothesis has been proclaimed as the greatest unsolved problem in mathematics, having remained unsolved for over a century. The person who solves it can claim a million dollar prize from the American Institute of Mathematics. We discussed this hypothesis with John Derbyshire, author of Prime Obsession.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Preserving wildlife populations that are displaced or actively diminished by human activity remains essential for maintaining biodiversity. Nowhere is this more evident than in Africa, where many wildlife species are being driven to extinction by human activity. On this program, Paul Raffaele discussed wildlife preservation in Africa.
Topics: science, conservation, wildlife
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
A huge potential for our energy needs lies at the bottom of the ocean in the form of methane hydrates. But what happens when the ocean "burps" and large amounts of natural gas are liberated into the atmosphere? On this program, MBARI scientist Charles Paull discusses how these greenhouse gases could be abruptly released.
Topics: science, methane hydrate, marine geology
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Developing alternative energy sources will require extensive capital resources. On this program, Matthew Feller discussed methods for carbon sequestration. In addition, Miriam Horn discussed developing capital infrastructure for alternative energy technology.
Topics: science, environment, alternative energy
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The oceans are essential for human survival. The Sant Ocean Hall at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History seeks to educate the public about the importance of the oceans. On this program, Deborah Cramer discussed Smithsonian Ocean: Our Water, Our World.
Topics: science, ocean, environment, smithsonian
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Science and sports seem strangely dissimilar, but both strive to bring out the best in human endeavors. On this program, Rick Greenwald discussed this quest for such consilience in Quantum Hoops.
Topics: science, sports, caltech, basketball
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The moon landings changed the course of history and affected many lives, especially the astronauts who served on those missions. On this program, Andrew Chaikin discussed Voices from the Moon.
Topics: science, aeronautics, space exploration, moon landing, NASA
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
America is already great, as President Obama has reminded us. But does the country have a strategy? Perhaps militarily but does the country have a grand vision for prosperity, security, and sustainability? On this episode, Joel Makower discusses America's path to a brighter future in his new book The Grand Strategy.
Topics: America, sustainability, environment, energy, Pentagon, strategy, policies, walkable communities
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, also known as DARPA, has been at the forefront of numerous technological innovations. Yet, their work is often unheralded. On this program, Michael Belfiore discussed this department of mad scientists.
Topics: science, DARPA, internet, solar energy, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The debate of nature versus nurture in understanding behavior is ongoing. The blank slate is the idea that human's are not born with innate behaviors. On this program, Prof. Steven Pinker joined us to critique the idea of the blank slate.
Topic: Science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
While science continues to push the boundaries of human knowledge, most of us puzzle over more entertaining questions, like does anything eat wasps? On this program, Ivan Semeniuk gives the last word on these everyday science questions.
Topics: science, puzzles, trivia
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Solving complex problems can be aided through the use of visual tools. However, these methods are often unknown outside of the scientific and engineering arenas. On this program, Dan Roam discussed visual problem solving.
Topics: science, problem solving, visual
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
