Surprising Science — January 22, 2010

Hosting a Parasite Expert

Parasites in the brain. Flu viruses in the human genome. Manmade species of e coli. Carl Zimmer, a science writer and lecturer who has lent his name to a species of tapeworm, isn’t afraid to venture into the creepier, crawlier domains of science, as his Big Think interview proved.

The author of “Parasite Rex” also addressed a variety of non-microscopic topics, including the changing speed of human evolution and the varying speed of human thought. Known for featuring pictures of readers’ science tattoos on his blog, The Loom, Zimmer even revealed whether he is hiding any geeky body art of his own.

A vibrant space image showing a star-forming region with clusters of bright stars and colorful nebulas in shades of red and green.

Hard Science

The “Big Crunch”: New dark energy data raises questions about Universe’s fate

Here's what recent DESI measurements suggest — and why it's too early to update conventional predictions about the Universe's distant future.

A collage of images featuring an anatomical drawing of a heart, a portrait of a bearded man embodying everyday philosophy, a brain illustration, and a smartphone showing an unread message notification.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Is it OK to ghost the people you date?”

Nicole has been dating someone for a while but it's not working out from her point of view. Is sudden radio silence an ethical option?

Collage of images featuring a classical sculpture, a close-up of a human ear, and a woman in a cafe expressing surprise with children nearby.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Can I ever swear in front of kids?”

Irene is on a bus with her young kids when two men come on, cussing like sailors. Should Irene step in and say something?

Woman wearing pixelated sunglasses sits at a desk, with graphic overlays of a line graph demonstrating workplace equality, classical figures in discussion, and a clock indicating 2 o'clock.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Should I have to work the same hours as my inefficient colleague?”

Rich is brilliant at his job. He completes work in half the time of his coworkers. Should he have to sit at his desk just as long?

Abstract illustration of orange arrows soaring upwards from converging lines, symbolizing growth, progress, or success.

Business

Answer these 7 questions to maintain your AI edge

It’s not enough just to stay current and competitive with AI — you’ll also need to build a long-term strategy.

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Culture & Religion

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