About this episode
The start of a new year is a time to look both forward and back. On this week’s On the Media, hear how facing our climate’s fragility could inspire hope, instead of despair. Plus, a physicist explains how creation stories help us understand our place in the universe. 1. Luke Kemp [ @LukaKemp ], a Research Associate at Cambridge’s Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, on a new study that says we need to put more attention on the possibility of human extinction and other climate catastrophes . Bryan Walsh [ @bryanrwalsh ], editor of Vox’s ‘Future Perfect,’ also explains why our brains have a hard time processing catastrophes like climate change. Listen . 2. Mark Blyth [ @MkBlyth ], professor of International Economics and Public Affairs at Brown University, on how the economy is ultimately a mirror of our accomplishments, advances, fears, and mistakes. Listen . 3. Guido Tonelli, a particle physicist at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, on the importance of creation myths, and what scientists can tell us about the fragility of the universe. Listen . Music in this week's show: Merkabah - John Zorn Carmen Fantasy - Anderson & Roe The Stone - The Chieftains Suite for Solo Cello No. 6 in D Major (Bach) - Yo Yo Ma Sentimental Journey - The Sydney Dale Orchestra Peace Piece (Bill Evans) - Kronos Quartet Love Theme from Spartacus - Yusef Lateef On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today ( https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm ). Follow our show on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing onthemedia@wnyc.org.