How Primitive Will Our Descendants Find Us? | Stuff You Should Know

Intro

In this episode of the “Stuff You Should Know” podcast, the hosts reflect on the last episode of 2023 and discuss various topics, including the future of cancer treatment, the shift away from traditional meat production, the potential for self-driving cars, the limitations of GDP as a measure of progress, and the impact of climate change. They also highlight upcoming events and podcasts.

Main Takeaways

Podcast Highlights

• Walter Isaacson’s book about Elon Musk sparks controversy and hot takes
• Cheryl McCollum hosts the “Zone 7” podcast, delving into cold cases
• Aaron and Karissa from “Calm Down” host a special reading event at State Farm Park
• Carlos Miller hosts “85 Self-Shilts,” focusing on comedy and supporting black-owned businesses
• The “Stuff You Should Know” podcast is going on a live tour in the Pacific Northwest

Reflecting on 2023 and Listener Statistics

• Listeners sent in their rap statistics, showing pride in their top percentages of listenership
• The hosts speculate on the possibility of someone playing the podcast on loop to inflate their listening minutes
• The podcast was downloaded in 163 countries, with significant growth in Mexico
• They discuss the reversal of looking back at past practices, like smoking on airplanes in the 90s and Jello salad trends

The Future of Cancer Treatment

• Chemotherapy is considered primitive and barbaric, but it saves lives
• The future of cancer treatment is moving towards more specific and tailored medicine
• Antibody drug conjugates combine chemotherapy drugs with lab-created monoclonal antibodies
• mRNA vaccines are being adapted to specifically shrink tumors and boost the immune response against cancer cells
• AI can play a significant role in tailoring cancer treatments to specific patients

The Shift Away from Traditional Meat Production

• 3D bio-printing is being used to create external ears
• The future of meat production: 3D bio-printing organs like livers
• Changing attitudes toward meat consumption
• Predictions for the future: The OECD predicts a shift away from meat consumption
• Impact of meat production on the environment

The Potential for Self-Driving Cars

• Prediction: Car hailing apps will make owning a car less necessary
• Setbacks in self-driving cars
• Advancements in car technology
• The intermediary steps towards full automation in cars are already underway with the help of AI
• Removing humans from driving is primarily for safety

Redefining Progress and Climate Change

• The tie between progress as a nation and the robustness of the economy
• The success of a nation should be equated with the health and well-being of its people
• GDP only measures economic growth or shrinkage and leaves out important factors
• Younger generations are already shifting away from GDP as the sole indicator of an economy’s health
• The burning of fossil fuels will likely be looked down upon by future generations

Summary

Controversial Biography and Cold Case Podcast

The hosts start by discussing Walter Isaacson’s controversial biography of Elon Musk, which captures the polarizing genius of Musk while also highlighting his chaotic and conspiratorial nature. They mention Cheryl McCollum’s podcast, “Zone 7,” which delves into cold cases and showcases McCollum’s genuine interest in the subject matter.

Upcoming Events and Reading Event

Aaron and Karissa from the “Calm Down” podcast are hosting a special reading event at State Farm Park, featuring stories and memories tied to the holiday spirit. Carlos Miller hosts “85 Self-Shilts,” a podcast focusing on comedy and supporting black-owned businesses. The hosts also mention the “Stuff You Should Know” live tour in the Pacific Northwest in January 2024.

Listener Statistics and Reflections

The hosts express gratitude to all listeners for their dedication and pride in their statistics. They discuss the global reach of the podcast, with significant growth in Mexico, and express interest in doing a show in Mexico City. They also reflect on the reversal of looking back at past practices, such as smoking on airplanes in the 90s and Jello salad trends.

The Future of Cancer Treatment

The hosts discuss the future of cancer treatment, highlighting the limitations of current methods like chemotherapy. They mention the potential of more specific and tailored medicine, such as antibody drug conjugates and mRNA vaccines. They also emphasize the role of AI in analyzing genetic makeup and personalizing cancer treatments.

The Shift Away from Traditional Meat Production

The hosts explore the shift away from traditional meat production, discussing advancements in 3D bio-printing and changing attitudes toward meat consumption. They predict a future where meat production relies less on live animals and highlight the environmental impact of livestock raising.

The Potential for Self-Driving Cars

The hosts speculate on the future of self-driving cars, discussing the potential reduction in car ownership and advancements in car technology. They highlight the role of AI in achieving full automation and emphasize the safety and environmental benefits of removing humans from driving.

Redefining Progress and Climate Change

The hosts challenge the notion that progress should be solely measured by economic growth, highlighting the importance of considering factors like human well-being and resource depletion. They discuss the expanding circle of concern for humankind and the potential negative impact of climate change. They predict a shift away from reliance on fossil fuels and a reevaluation of progress as a nation.

Conclusion

In this episode, the hosts cover a range of topics, including controversial biographies, cold case podcasts, upcoming events, the future of cancer treatment, the shift away from traditional meat production, the potential for self-driving cars, and redefining progress. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast and express gratitude for their support.