The Uncertain Science Behind What We Understand As ‘Truth’
Summary
Mathematician Adam Kucharski discusses the complex nature of truth, from historical quests for certainty to modern challenges in an era of disinformation and AI. The conversation delves into how scientific evidence is used in public policy, especially during crises like COVID-19, and the implications for trust in science, highlighting the interplay between scientific findings and societal values and the evolving understanding of truth in the age of technology.Episode description
Throughout history, humans have been on a search for truth. From the ancient Greeks and their belief in a universal truth, to our Founding Fathers writing, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” In a world of disinformation, conspiracy theories, and the rising influence of artificial intelligence, where does truth fit in? Mathematician Adam Kucharski, author of Proof: The Art and Science of Certainty, joins Host Ira Flatow to discuss the complicated truth.
Read an excerpt of Proof: The Art and Science of Certainty.
Guest:
Dr. Adam Kucharski is a mathematician and author of Proof: The Art and Science of Certainty. He is based in London.
Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com.
Subscribe to this podcast. Follow our show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Bluesky @scifri and sign up for our newsletters. Got a science question that’s keeping you up at night? Call us: 877-472-4374
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.