Hi everyone,
Brian Greene is a professor of physics and mathematics at Columbia University, director of its centre for theoretical physics, and the chairman of the World Science Festival. He is best known for his work on string theory, especially in The Elegant Universe, which turns 25 this year.
He joins me to discuss the state of that controversial scientific idea, as well as the nature of science more broadly, and whether it might one day explain why the universe is so suspiciously accommodating of human life.
As ever, I look forward to your early feedback, and thank you for your support of the show!
Timestamps:
0:00 – What is String Theory?
7:41 – Can We Prove String Theory?
14:06 – What Would Einstein Make of String Theory?
15:26 – Is String Theory Scientific or Philosophical?
20:43 – Does String Theory Predict a Multiverse?
27:18 – Does Science Explain or Describe?
38:03 – What Are “Laws” of Physics?
44:47 – Is There Intelligence Behind the Universe?
52:50 – Brian’s View on Purpose
55:28 – Is There Any Evidence for the Multiverse?
1:04:16 – String Theory, 25 Years Later
1:07:20 – Does String Theory Matter in Practice?
1:10:43 – What is Time?
