Neil deGrasse Tyson: Starry Messages, Science, Culture, and Life

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Neil deGrasse Tyson is one of the most recognizable faces of science in the world, and for good reason. He has thought a lot about how to engage people in the wonder and joy of science, something that is also near and dear to Lawrence's own heart, and to the spirit of many of Lawrence's own activities, including The Origins Podcast. We were so happy that Neil agreed to return to have another dialogue on the podcast following the release of his new book, Starry Messenger, because it provided us with the opportunity to have the kind of give and take discussion that Lawrence enjoys having with him, and which is important for people to get to watch. Neil and Lawrence share many of the same sensibilities but they don’t agree about everything, and their perspectives are sometimes different. They try to share those different perspectives with each other by respectful dialogue, and discussion.

[@silence8806]

This channel is incredibly underrated.

[@Casstax]

Underrated comment. 👍

[@Life_42]

Very!

[@jacobgarcia7918]

Neil deGrasse Tyson is a gateway drug to Lawrence Krauss. Absolutely loving this conversation.

[@jerico423]

Lawrence, on when you and Neil were discussing your no fluff, no nonsense approach to delivering facts as compared to his softer, perhaps more palatable, approach. Don't let him get away with saying his approach is more effective in educating. I've been inspired by your bluntness, as with the bluntness of say Dawkins, Hitchens, to educate people on their misconceptions in a way that no soft spoken educator ever could. It is, I think, the feeling of the absurdity that these notions are held, coming across in your speech, that I find solidarity in and which motivates me to share with others. So, while his way might get through to just one, your method inspires one to get through to many. If that made any sense.

[@HarryNicNicholas]

i rather listen to krauss than tyson, tyson is too much a showman for my taste, krauss has his negatives but he comes over as more "serious" (whether that's true or not).

[@anttiharju3739]

I think both approaches have their merit, and it's fine trying to do them both.

[@duncanidaho9153]

NDT is (like the test regime) very wary of breaking his public image and keeps his distance from a lot discussions, as he attested. Other than choosing his battles carefully (say what you like about withdrawing from the field on important matters) he's as robust in teaching method /debate as LK as far as I can tell. He was in pretty good form here in terms of battlegrounds - away from his natural element, relaxed enough to discuss this and even letting a few expletives fly in well chosen directions. Good podcast.

[@RobertDouglasLW]

Well said! Most humans are, regrettably, not moved by rationality alone. Ssometimes I think the Tyson approach, if you will, is unfortunately necessary, but I absolutely agree that the blunt, straightforward approach is best.

[@abeautifuldayful]

@@RobertDouglasLW I actually like your extra "s" in "Ssometimes." It's sometimes how people talk when they want you to think a bit harder. I really like that, which is how Tyson talks too. Conversely, getting quicker to the point is also great and perhaps best, which is closer to Krauss' approach. I sometimes think NDT reaches more people, which is a good thing, but Krauss is there to provide a perhaps a better method for further or more concentrated study. Both have their place educationally, perhaps.

[@MannySimoneCards]

The friction is what makes this so fun to watch

[@cosalidra759]

I just love that this podcast exists.

[@smlanka4u]

Science is also a belief sometimes. Modern science doesn't explain the nature of Electric and Magnetic fields correctly yet.

[@ansfridaeyowulfsdottir8095]

@@smlanka4u *_"Science is also a belief sometimes."_* But it's a belief based on actual observation and empirical evidence, unlike a lot of other beliefs. Particularly religious beliefs. {:o:O:}

[@HarryNicNicholas]

@@smlanka4u whatever.

[@smlanka4u]

@@ansfridaeyowulfsdottir8095, Some observations and scientific explanations don't represent the actual process. So science is a belief when it is wrong. E.g. Scientists don't really know how the rain clouds make extra electrons using the magnetic field of the earth. But they say that it happens. The truth is it is not a magnetic field, and I can prove it using my TOE. It is a very very big error in modern science.

[@cosalidra759]

@@smlanka4u you look indian. I am Indian too. But i see many Indians think our culture is superior and our Vedas are 'ancient science'. I request you to rethink your delusions. And please stop spreading misinformation by commenting on science videos and podcasts, without even listening to them properly first.

[@kevthecontrarian1614]

It's so great to watch a cordial and robust conversation that has been the mainstay of western civilization, instead if people at loggerheads which has become the new norm. This is exactly how civilization moves forward.

[@MarcelHuguenin]

Thank you Lawrence and Neil for this freaking wonderful conversation, I loved it.

[@ozgurbirey5402]

Two of my favorite science teachers… Hurray !!! There’s a festival of knowledge :)

[@mommar4858]

Forgive me if this is too much, but I can't help but acknowledge the beauty, irony and intensity of seeing Neil, a person who represents a cosmic rationale. Sit in front of a painting of someone who represents the felt experience and vastness that our animal bodies can express about knowing we are beings on a planet, in a universe. Great conversation! That you both.

[@vinney6938]

I’m 32 and my curiosity is not gone. Opportunity for that to be important is sparse though with todays economic situation. No matter where you reside

[@MajMat073]

Outstanding gentleman, Dr Tyson please try to get Dr Krause on "Star Talk". 👍

[@maekong2010]

Finally, reality "television" that has an actual connection to reality. I enjoyed both sides of the discussion equally. I don't know what we'd do without you guys, and with any luck, I won't live long enough to find out. 🙏❤🙏

[@firewithfire848]

What would we do without them(LK and NDT)? Pretty much the same thing we’re doing now.

[@maekong2010]

@@firewithfire848 Who is this “we” ye so boldly speak of, kimosabe?

[@DanceBeforeTheStorm_]

Wonderful conversation, thank you for letting me watch it. You're putting science into humans but also humanity into science. So important.

[@astroporpoise7802]

Just wanted to come by and say happy holidays, Professor Krauss! It meant so much to me meeting you in Seattle during your Greatest Story book signing. I was the guy in the red jacket who asked about Hitch's dinner parties hehe. Hope all's well with you and thanks for all your inspiration.

[@TheOriginsPodcast]

thanks.. have a great holiday.

[@luckosteve12]

Always happy to see a new Origins Podcast.

[@venkataponnaganti]

I am a fan of you both. Thank you.

[@christinley5213]

Daaaaaaaaaaaammm this was so fkn good!!!!!!!!please do this again!! You are two of some of my fav people.. but together your like pbnj!! Thank you both.. always learning so much from you guys!:)

[@vinney6938]

Keep it up guys. We’re still here, regardless how loudly the others have the opportunity to speak. Their nonsense is just that.

[@absolutelyreel8795]

Thoroughly enjoyed this conversation gentlemen. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@charityfurer7352]

Loved this book and would read it again because I know I’ll catch something I didn’t the first time 😻

[@scottsyme7878]

as a musician on the creative side of things.....with years of study in piano......always better to don.t think just... play....me thinks its called art.....which in many ways...has fueled science.....thanks guys

[@mlungisimankani]

Woow my 2 favorite people together in one video

[@skepticsinister]

This is waaaaaaaay better than any bs church on a Sunday morning 👍🏽

[@AGBDej]

Everything has its purpose, science and religion are related both desire to better understand our universe. One uses quantitative the other uses qualitative

[@Webfra14]

@@AGBDej Seeing how much (or rather: little) progress religion made in the last couple hundred years, it seems to be quite an incompetent method for understanding the universe...

[@gregkirk1842]

Sure, with that attitude.

[@HarryNicNicholas]

@@AGBDej shame god had to drown all those babies though. and that people defend baby drowning. if i had a whacko idea that had zero evidence to support it i would keep it to myself, instead of trying to force my imaginary friends rules on others, when you try to force imaginary friend's rules on people, people tend to push back. believe whatever you want, believe a box of frogs made the universe for all i care, but, best not to tell too many people, cos you look insane.

[@skepticsinister]

@@AGBDej religion is no solution for the requirements of humanity in the 21st century! Religion has NO purpose in modern times. There is NOTHING real or useful about religion, god-delusional garbage 🗑️.

[@HugoAscencio]

Aww, love to see these two discussing and debating each other again

[@TheSteveBoyd]

I'm playing catch-up on these episodes, and happening upon this conversation between two of our most revered brainiacs is a perfect Saturday morning stimulant. Along with some strong coffee, of course.👍👍

[@valentinrafael9201]

There’s a quote from a Japanese swordsman ( Miyamoto Musashi ) about truth and it says: Truth is not what you want it to be. It is what it is and you must bend to its power or live a lie. People today have issues identifying the truth and after identifying it they have an issue with ACCEPTING the truth.

[@Reflection4040]

What a beautiful conversation. ❤️

[@jonrendell]

Favourite quote from the show: "I want to see neuroscience supplant psychology in the way chemistry supplanted alchemy." - Neil deGrasse Tyson

[@neuropsychdoc6341]

It just shows that Neil has an extremely limited overview or understanding of the discipline of Psychology, at least how it is taught in university programs that subscribe to a scientist/practitioner model.

[@jonrendell]

@@neuropsychdoc6341 Now I wonder why you of all people would ever say that.

[@firewithfire848]

Reason 345 why Tyson is an ass.

[@stauffap]

Lovely conversation. I enjoyed it a lot!

[@mosheswisa]

Great one! Thank you for this.

[@kelvinzeini4725]

Thank you both!!!

[@Attila_Beregi]

this was great! thx for doing it

[@maccusmc]

Great convo. Fan of you both

[@ElisabethMannschott]

This is just great! Thank you both.

[@sourturnippp]

Two of my favourite people ❤️❤️

[@luckosteve12]

Thank you both so much for this interesting and engaging conversation.

[@bavafan2236]

I grew up loving Neil, but I fell off as a fan as I find most of his appearances to be over-caffeinated reiterations of the same common science facts over and over, and waiting on an applause for feigned profundity. But I must say you have put him in his best light again and really engaged him in a specific way that allowed his intelligent insight and infectious curiosity to shine. Love this podcast 👍

[@kepler22b74]

He’s not a performer nor is he for your entertainment. He’s an educator. His ideas are being vetted by another colleague. If that isn’t interesting than I question your genuine sentiment towards the scientific enterprise.

[@minhjdt]

I dont care about repeating the same facts over and over... Science is repetitive and reflects our daily life .. If u cab include science into ur normal life ( all the time) things can change overnight.. Coz science is only our hope for human kind and its a gradual process so every small things matters.

[@terranbiped8358]

What you say is true of every other popular podcaster. All these shows are heavily personality driven and preaching pretty much to the choir. In essence entertainment, a show and not disciplined heavy symposiums or lectures. If you enjoy Neil it’s mostly a case of loving his reasoning, acumen and humor. There is only so much he can impart to the lay public of a technical nature. Enjoy the show or turn the channel or pick up a textbook.

[@preludeshalyn]

I think that Tyson’s “WHY” (in the Simon Sinek sense) is spark interest in science in those who otherwise wouldn’t be. I think he’s found certain points and messaging that is effective in that, so we hear it again and again. But we’re not who he’s trying to reach with that messaging. That’s not to say he doesn’t have more to offer which is why I love catching him in an interview like this where he can go deeper. Richard Dawkins does the same thing, majority of his speaking hits the same points because they are effective. Occasionally though you’ll catch him in an environment where he considers a more seasoned audience and it’s a real treat. You can divide his books into those 2 categories as well. Even Lawrence is like this, but he has a regular venue (this) where he can go deep. Tyson has a lot to offer you just need to consider who he’s trying to reach at any given moment.

[@Chicken_Little_Syndrome]

Neil does nothing but repeat academia. He is a parrot.

[@williamjmccartan8879]

Listened to this twice, just so I could comprehend your final statement regarding the death penalty, and Neil's response, which was 100% scientifically gathering evidence prior to creating a law to understanding what the affects of that law would be, and we have about 10,000 years of evidence regarding the death penalty, it seemed particularly unsuited for the discussion, and it's good Neil makes an effort to be heard. This is a case of too much material for such a limited amount of time, carry on this discussion in a part 2, come back Neil, asking for a friend. Peace

[@rustamslobodskoy9065]

I think it's very useful to hear all this conversation- like a brain storm, don't forget have curiosity all the time:)

[@mattnewman5673]

Thank you both

[@lsdevenie1426]

Thoroughly enjoyable episode

[@tehdii]

From time to time I rewatch Beyond Belief from 2006 for the pleasure... it was not long ago and yet so much have changed...

[@KRBTCrypto]

Yes almost 20 years now since 2006

[@fanemanelistu9235]

Great. Just great. Nothing more needs to be said.

[@Merrypotter473]

Thank you, NGT, for being a voice of decency, moderation and reason -- and thanks for pushing back at LK.

[@SunderMecha]

Thank you for this!

[@richardfeit8296]

Great conversation.

[@ferriveiro3101]

This was so entertaining. I think I enjoyed the bickering as much as learning lots of new things! XD much love to you professors! Xxx

[@Caleb-zu1pk]

Nice talk and conversation.

[@usablefiber]

This is great stuff. Love these discussions and the challenging of viewpoints

[@svenbade8419]

Wonderful enlightening :)

[@DFocelot]

Wow. Don’t think I ever heard Neil drop an F bomb before. Lol. Bravo!!

[@nunomaroco583]

Great talk all the best.

[@douglasdickerson5184]

My two favorites!!! 💙💙💙

[@user-soon300]

Wow this is remarkable conversation the time passed i don't interested in science but in the last few months i really love it and just ask myself questions about the universe and why we are here and i found most of the answers ❤ thanks

[@antoinettejoubert]

My two favorite people😊

[@lamarquerebeca]

👋🐺 feliz de conectarme aquí 💕

[@KulwantSingh-ew9oc]

Nice to see you

[@Efferri]

Awesome discussion. I've always said that if you disagree or close your mind based on "principle", you need to stop and rethink your angle.

[@SylviabombsmithUjhy75bd34]

this is great

[@robinghosh5627]

Great Fantastic discussion on Scientific knowledge, perception on rationality and futuristic ideas by the Great Lawrence Krauss and Great Neil degrasse Tyson ..Cherished Forever..

[@ianblake815]

The new OG’s of physics 🤘

[@MrBILLSTANLEY]

Brilliant discussion. I have a small cheap copy of Starry Messenger in my home. I wonder if Neil has the original.

[@Lumumba_00]

Thank you both. Excellent podcast.

[@ztgglis]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this. Kisses and gratitude to you both.

[@timphillips9954]

It would have been nice to have heard the debate from Oxford always a great listen.

[@vinnyvdalidemonet8527]

I love the fact that Professor Krauss helps to keep Mr Tyson humble.. I did enjoy his book, Starry Messenger's (broad material) Mr Tyson is "so" proud of his intellect (he should be) However, Professor Krauss helps bring him down to earth. 😂 Very entertaining conversation. PS Professor Feynman is my guy too. I really enjoyed Professor Krauss' tribute to him. How honorable is that?

[@criscris5061]

Excelente y muy animada conversación

[@grahamjoss4643]

“Is your brain invertedly wired” 😂 @1:29:01

[@hokiturmix]

Funny when science podcasts have technical difficulties..... :D Love you both! :D

[@ritik_baliyan]

Please invite professor Brian Greene, we want to hear him

[@Zealbourne]

I loved that Stage Conversation they mentioned, "Dust-up" on. It was a longer two parter on KZbin and it was brilliant! My 80yo Father started laughing when Mr.D-Tyson interrupted people to discuss the importance of military(G.Pol.) interest in the development of frontier science. Just like that he had a new fan. He said, "Can you get me more of him?" We watched Cosmos together, and when that was done we moved onto KZbin for any other conversation or lecture he could give. It was a great thing for me and my father to connect over, a growing love of learning science.

[@jfreshh330]

What does G.Pol. Mean?

[@Zealbourne]

@@jfreshh330 Geo-politics

[@claudes.whitacre1241]

" I want to see neuroscience supplant psychology the way chemistry supplanted alchemy". Never thought of it that way. Thanks.

[@ignorasmus]

I really love Neil and spend hours listening to him - specially on his podcast "Startalk Radio". BUT I wish he would let go of his habit of interrupting people while they talk.

[@Alexsey_Kudrya]

Спасибо!

[@towerdave4836]

Brilliant!

[@Zorlof]

Hehe, I saw your cameo in the movie "Intersect". 😄

[@teknophyle1]

58:20 excellent point. this is not an easy concept to learn. I think I understand it but when dealing with combative people I quickly forget 😅

[@thermalrain_yt9725]

Amazing

[@hessambayanifar2987]

Lawrence, I have been a fan of you for a long time and I have learnt a lot from you. So thank you. I have a question. What is your opinion about the freedom of speech? Should we draw a line anywhere? When free speech becomes hate speech? Should it be censored? What about letting people with obviously wrong religious ideas talk on TV? Or what about censorship to protect the kids? These are questions on my mind and I love to see your views. I advocate free speech but l have these paradoxes on my mind too and don't know the right answer. Thank you

[@TheOriginsPodcast]

Thanks.. I find my views on free speech are informed by Christopher's discussion about it, which I describe in this podcast. Once you realize that by censoring others you remove your opportunity to discover you are wrong, I think you are willing to open yourself up to a lot more.

[@InLikeTech]

Really says volumes about Neil when others (SH, MD and etc...) run the other way, thinking they are saving their rep! Whatever Lawrence, I am really happy to see you back!!! Make sure you are staying!!!

[@TheOriginsPodcast]

thanks

[@tomnanD3]

Fascinating and a learning experience watching two of the best intellects on the planet having a dialog.

[@ianbynoe6515]

Two great scientists

[@lancerbiker5263]

It's great when two of the best educators indeavor to enlighten each other, and ultimately enlighten us all. Not sure how much AI will impact the understanding and treatment of mental illness though. Everything seems to be happening "much faster than science predicted" these days...

[@MTerrance]

Exactly. AI could provide real breakthroughs. Whether we will be able to understand those breakthroughs is another question. If the results are as incomprehensible to top scientists as advanced science is to laymen...

[@tyleranyways]

58:50 I love the mention of Christopher hitchens. Very missed

[@nik4546]

awseome

[@Nefville]

How in the HELL have I gone for three years, THREE YEARS, not knowing this podcast existed? You would think someone would have to go out of their way to miss it, somehow I did. Thankfully I've found it. Been a fan since before A Universe From Nothing, Lawrence is a seminal voice of reason in my journey, I just don't know how I could have missed three years. A lot of catching up to do...

[@HGALAXIES]

Niel is, as you recognized, the only one who stopped and talked over you!!! Cheers!!! That felt good! 🤣🤣🤣

[@natyboops]

Funniest comment during this podcast: Krauss: "We're completely agreed."

[@katherinepettit6585]

Such an awesome interview Krauss, this episode and the Jordan Peterson one are my favourites. It really helps to clarify things

[@caiolinnertel8777]

Love you to chatting, wonerful!

[@mendez31971]

Lawrence I don't know what happened to you in your personal life, for a while you went missing, and my children noticed it, There was a moment in my children's life where you Neil Degrasse, Bill Nye, and a few others captured the imagination of my young children. It’s good to hear you And see you back Lawrence ,

[@seanwebb605]

Is the echo in the audio Dr. Tyson's audio going through Dr. Krauss' microphone? Could he have worn headphones and avoided this issue?

[@jestermoon]

Freedom of choice and speech is all we have 4:03 Stay Safe Stay Free 4:19

[@jpablomsan]

36:32 < loved the swearing 🤬🤣

[@jssweden]

I liked and commented before this had even aired!

[@escapeartist205]

we live in a pre this video world but things are about to change

[@jssweden]

@@escapeartist205 Indeed, my wise yet unknown KZbin friend.

[@PFA...]

you have contributed immensely

[@terranbiped8358]

You are not a Rationalian, but if I was a betting man …

[@KaleOrton]

Neil 'don't walk on' DeGrasse Tyson. Legend!

[@PJmusic1981]

Two of my favourite people on the planet. I only wish I was half as smart as one of you. I find if people don't know things they just refer to old wives tales or stories someone has past down generations

[@gabrielofficial7859]

Amazing conversation 👏👏👏👏👏

[@Alexx481]

❤❤❤

[@chrisblack9851]

Every time these two talk it always turns into an argument. Just like my brother and I