February 24, 2014

This is Your Brain on a Laser Beam

It’s mathematically possible for your consciousness to exist without your body.

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We are closer to achieving science fiction: your brain–your personality, your mind, your soul, your entire being–may one day be available on a disc. It’s mathematically possible for your consciousness to exist without your body. This big idea and the research that supports it is explored in the chapter “Mind Beyond Matter” in Michio Kaku’s latest book The Future of the Mind, released Tuesday. Catch him Tuesday night on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.

The most counterintuitive, surprising, and impactful new stories delivered to your inbox every Thursday.

Illustration of Earth with digital connections and text "Generative vs. Predictive AI" on a dark background.

Hard Science

Test Video

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Life

Test Internal Ceros

Collage of classical art suggesting a theme related to somatic markers.

Business

How “somatic markers” can transform your decision-making

Ditch the old brain vs. heart assumptions, and instead think about a heart-led brain.

A black and white image of a bunch of spheres, symbolizing the multiverse concept discussed by scientists.

Starts With A Bang

How logic and reasoning can fail as scientific tools

In logic, ‘reductio ad absurdum’ shows how flawed arguments fall apart. Our absurd Universe, however, often defies our intuitive reasoning.

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Life

Moving trees north to save the forests

As the world warms, trees in forests such as those in Minnesota will no longer be adapted to their local climates. That’s where assisted migration comes in.

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