Cosmism was originated in Russia more than a hundred years ago. That was an esoteric futuristic philosophy about post-humanity, technological immortality, resurrection and cosmic expansion. Early cosmists proposed the idea of decompaction (lightweighting) of the human body, that eventually wouldn’t need an atmosphere and would be powered directly by solar energy. They call it “radiant humanity” – a perfect society of highly moral and super-conscious beings merging and colonizing the whole Universe.
Modern Cosmism brings to the original doctrine the ontological foundation, a scientific structure and a deeper comprehension of possible technology aims to create in the future a new synthetic reality where the concepts of truth, consciousness, freedom and happiness will be deeply revised.
The conference will review the critical question about a meeting with advanced extraterrestrial civilizations and suggest few hypothesis about their “eerie silence”. We will touch some related problems in cosmology, and astrophysics such as the shape and future of the Universe, black hole information paradox, multidimensional space, dark energy and interpretation of quantum mechanics. Are they a separate arrow of time? Are there exceptions to the principle of causality?
Like no other area of philosophy and technology before, Modern Cosmism raises fundamental questions about the post human nature and how it will be connected to the reality. Is the structure of reality included the consciousness? Is a non biological hardware can support the consciousness? How we can define Cosmic Evolution and what is the role of intelligent life?
The conference will address important philosophical issues that arise with the future design of artificial consciousness, mind uploading and cyber-immortality. How will our concepts of subjectivity, perception, and morality change, if we will live in virtual reality of mega-consciousness environment where individuals can experience multiple presence, personality and have no gender. Will we be able to create super intelligent agents with consciousness and feelings? What are the limits of artificial capacities or functional simulations we should create? Could we enhance our own humanity by genetically redesign our nature?
Our keynote and plenary speakers are well-known international protagonists of Cosmism, Transhumanism and interdisciplinary researchers. Their lectures will discuss the most important current issues of Modern Cosmism from the point of view of philosophy, technology, ethics, robotics, psychology, and anthropology.
Ben Goertzel Ph.D. is the author of “Cosmists Manifesto”. He is Chief Scientist of financial prediction firm Aidyia Holdings; Chairman of AI software company Novamente LLC, which is a privately held software company, and bioinformatics company Biomind LLC, which is a company that provides advanced AI for bioinformatic data analysis (especially microarray and SNP data); Chairman of the Artificial General Intelligence Society and the OpenCog Foundation; Vice Chairman of futurist nonprofit Humanity+; Scientific Advisor of biopharma firm Genescient Corp.; Advisor to the Singularity University; Research Professor in the Fujian Key Lab for Brain-Like Intelligent Systems at Xiamen University, China; and general Chair of the Artificial General Intelligence conference series.
Giulio Prisco is former senior manager in the European Space Agency, Prisco is a physicist and computer scientist. He served as a member on the board of directors of World Transhumanist Association, of which he was temporarily executive director, and continues to serve as a member on the board of directors of the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies and of the Associazione Italiana Transumanisti. He is also a founding member of the Order of Cosmic Engineers, and the Turing Church, fledgling organizations which claim that the benefits of a technological singularity, which would come from accelerating change, should or would be viable alternatives to the promises of major religious groups.
James J. Hughes Ph.D. served as the executive director of the World Transhumanist Association (which has since changed its name to Humanity+) from 2004 to 2006, and currently serves as the executive director of the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies, which he founded with Nick Bostrom. He also produces the syndicated weekly public affairs radio talk show program Changesurfer Radio and contributed to the Cyborg Democracy blog. Hughes’ book Citizen Cyborg: Why Democratic Societies Must Respond to the Redesigned Human of the Future was published by Westview Press in November 2004
Please join us on Tuesday, October 20th at 6pm, at The Cornelia Street Café, as we welcome world-renowned philosopher and logician Graham Priest, as he discusses the surprising connections among Buddhist and Marxist critiques of the very conditions that not only support our capitalist society but contribute significantly to the sort of suffering with which we have become all too familiar.
Priest, perhaps most well-known for his robust defense of the view that there are true contradictions, has long found fruitful ways of bringing his knowledge of Asian thought and practice to bear on questions that have defined philosophy’s European tradition. This collaboration of understanding continues in this talk.
The Cornelia Street Café is located at 29 Cornelia Street, New York, NY 10014 (near Sixth Avenue and West 4th St.). Admission is $9, which includes the price of one drink. Reservations are recommended (212. 989.9319).
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
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Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
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Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
Edmund Husserl believed that phenomenology is the science of the essence of consciousness, the philosophical science of consciousness qua intentionality. We will review “the reflective study of the essence of consciousness as experienced from the first-person point of view”. Then we will return “to the things themselves” rigorous science of all conceivable transcendental phenomena, esp. meaning. Will touch a method of the critique of knowledge (the phenomenological method), and define phenomenology is the universal doctrine of essences, in which takes place the science of the essence of knowledge.
Our research has to be held in the pure seeing, but not for this reason has to be limited to the real immanent: it is research in the sphere of pure evidence and hence research of essences. We also say that its field is the apriori within the absolutely given in itself.
After this seminar from 7pm-10pm will be another discussion (followed by the reception) devoted to the Eerie Silence of our Universe. Enrico Fermi was Italian physicist, who created the world’s first nuclear reactor and was awarded the 1938 Nobel Prize in Physics. In response to a lunch time discussion about extraterrestrials, he asked the question “Where is Everybody?” (i.e. where are extraterrestrials). This became known as the Fermi Paradox (1950). The basic points of the arguments are:
- If there is nothing special about Earth or humanity, then whatever is true here should be true elsewhere in the galaxy.
- There are billions of stars in the galaxy that are similar to the Sun and some of these stars will have Earth-like planets. Some of them might develop intelligent life.
- Following this reasoning, Frank Drake predicted the existence of tens of thousands of advanced extraterrestrial civilizations (ETC) and Carl Sagan likewise predicted perhaps a million ETC.
- At least some of these ETC’s must be millions or even billions of years more advanced than us. Some of these civilizations might develop interstellar travel, thus they should have already reached Earth and we should have detected their existence by now.
So, “Where is Everybody?!”
Something must be wrong with this chain of reasoning so, we will review about 30 solutions to the Fermi Paradox and even create our own solution.
There will be free wine, cheese, and plenty of intellectual pleasure. Contact for any questions vb@cosmism.com
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
-
Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
-
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
-
Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
-
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
-
Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
-
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
-
Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
-
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
Is there a limit to human knowledge? Where do philosophy and physics intersect? Are we alone in the universe? Answering these and other questions, this six-part series will unite some of the most vibrant public intellectuals and communicators of today—from scientists to philosophers, and ethicists to educators—for explorations that reflect on the current state of modern physical sciences, its greatest mysteries and future endeavors, and philosophical significance for our understanding of reality and the spiritual dimension of human existence.
-
Registration — Series Prices (All 6 Events)
Member $20 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $20 Nonmember $60 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $30 Registration — Individual Lecture Prices
Member $5 Member (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $5 Nonmember $15 Nonmember (Student / Postdoc / Resident / Fellow) $7 Purchase tickets for all six events in the series to receive a discount. You may purchase individual event tickets, or register for free online access to the events via Livestream, by clicking on the individual event links below.
-
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
What Does the Future Hold for Physics: Is There a Limit to Human Knowledge?
Featuring: Neal Weiner (Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, New York University) and Vijay Balasubramanian (University of Pennsylvania)Modern physics has been remarkably successful in describing the dynamical history of our universe and producing new data that extends our knowledge of the world. Nevertheless, our understanding of some key concepts that seek to explain our universe remains unresolved. Cosmologist Neil Weiner, physicist Vijay Balasubramanian and selected other speakers will explore the limits on our ability to learn about the universe and their significance for our worldview and the notion of divine intervention.
Monday, April 25, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where Do Physics and Philosophy Intersect?
Featuring: David Z. Albert (Columbia University), Kate Becker (The Visible Universe), Jim Holt (Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story), and Tim Maudlin (New York University)At its core, physics addresses the fundamental problems that shape our philosophical outlook. Join our distinguished panel including writer Jim Holt, philosophers Tim Maudlin and David Z. Albert, and science writer Kate Becker in a dialogue that explores the philosophical meaning of the theories of modern physics—including quantum field theory, cosmology, and quantum gravity—and considers the ability of physics as a scientific discipline to answer the question: how can it be like that?
Monday, May 9, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Complexity: A Science of the Future?
Featuring: Kevin Slavin (MIT Media Lab)The advent of sophisticated computer technology has allowed studies of complex systems such as cell colonies, neurons in the brain, the immune system, economic markets, and social groups. In complex systems, simple, nonlinear interactions are iterated over time and give rise to self-organization, evolution, learning, and adaptation—phenomena that eluded explanation until now. This panel, including computer scientist and entrepreneur Kevin Slavin and selected physicists, will explore whether studies of complexity complement traditional physics or may upend science as we know it.
Monday, May 23, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The Rise of Human Consciousness
Featuring: David Chalmers (Center for Mind, Brain and Consciousness, New York University) and Max Tegmark (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Advances in physical and information sciences, biology, and neuroscience have dramatically enhanced our knowledge of the human species. But can physical sciences solve the biggest mystery—the emergence of human consciousness? Join our panel including philosopher David Chalmers and cosmologist Max Tegmark to explore this question and its implications.
Monday, June 13, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Featuring: Adam Frank (University of Rochester) and Louisa Preston (astrobiologist and author)The Fermi Paradox—the apparent contradiction between the high probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of contact with such civilizations—continues to captivate our minds. Join astrophysicist Adam Frank and science writer Louisa Preston and selected physicists and philosophers as they explore the question: “Where is everybody?” as well as other questions: How does scientific knowledge direct our future scientific and technological pursuits on Earth and in space? How does science inform human ethics? Does science make us better citizens of the universe?
Wednesday, June 29, 2016 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Did Einstein Kill Schrödinger’s Cat? A Quantum State of Mind
Featuring: Daniel Harlow (Princeton Center for Theoretical Science)Schrodinger’s cat is a famous illustration of the quantum theory of superposition, a behavior that has only been observed experimentally with the smallest of particles, like electrons, and never with real-world cats. So what prevents humans (and our furry friends) from being here, there, and everywhere simultaneously? New research in quantum mechanics suggests that gravity may be the key to suppressing superposition on larger scales. This panel, including quantum physicist Daniel Harlow, will discuss the fascinating interplay between two great theories of the 20th century—quantum theory and general relativity—and how these phenomena may be exploited.
This week we focus our lens on the Media by exploring Agenda Setting. Agenda setting is when a certain media outlet frequently presents an issue that may not be as relevant as the frequent appearance of the piece suggests. However, as a result of the frequency the audience begins to think the issue is important. The concern is compounded when other media outlets jump on the band wagon. We’ll explore this little touched topic and more! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
Please read Agenda Setting pages 147 – 161
Please remember to bring $3 for the Setauket Neighborhood house.