Description (podcaster-provided):
From the PBS science series NOVA, a biweekly podcast digging into the science behind the headlines. Alok Patel takes you behind the scenes with the people—scientists, engineers, technologists, mathematicians and more—working to understand our world. Now it's more critical than ever to distinguish fact from fiction and find science-based answers to the most pressing questions of our time.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Science behind current events • Space exploration • Climate change • Health and medicine • Technology and innovation • Sociology and psychology • Energy sustainability • Environmental issues • Economics and cryptocurrencyThe podcast "NOVA Now" from PBS is a biweekly series that delves into the scientific principles and discoveries behind current headlines and pressing global questions. The podcast is hosted by Dr. Alok Patel, a physician and science communicator, who guides listeners through various complex topics with the help of experts from many scientific fields.
A recurring theme in the podcast is space exploration and cosmology, with episodes exploring subjects such as the Big Bang theory, black holes, exoplanets, and the potential for extraterrestrial life. Another significant focus involves environmental and sustainability issues, including discussions on climate change, hurricanes, drought, and renewable energy sources like nuclear fusion.
Furthermore, the podcast frequently addresses advancements in technology and their societal impacts. This includes topics like cryptocurrency, satellite technology, electric vehicles, and innovations in food science. Public health and science are also covered in-depth with episodes on the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine development, the effects of cannabis, and the practice of eating insects as a potential solution to food sustainability.
The show also examines the intersection of science with social and legal issues, such as the science behind mail-in voting, the implications of scientific evidence in the courtroom, and the statistics involved in political polling. Episodes often isolate complex concepts, like the science of fear, the neuroscience of motivation, and the intricacies of how exercise affects the body.
The podcast not only presents factual scientific information but frequently includes discussions with experts, offering practical insights and applications of scientific research in everyday life. Overall, "NOVA Now" aims to disentangle fact from fiction by presenting a wide array of scientific topics in an accessible manner, emphasizing the importance and relevance of science in modern society.