Cosmic Queries – StarTalk-ology with Alie Ward

About This Episode

What kinds of ologies are out there? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice explore and answer questions about the vast world of niche sciences with science communicator and host of Ologies, Alie Ward.

Is there such a thing as butt-ology? We touch on gluteology, the science of humor, and what it takes to be curious and nosy in the sciences. How do you convince someone who doesn’t believe in science? Learn about vaccine infodemiology (studying vaccine hesitancy) and agnotology (the study of willful ignorance).

We discuss the advancement of civilization and language. What is language? We explore scientific feats and their relationship to language. How do you introduce a new concept to someone? How do you correct the record when you’ve said something wrong? We discuss misinformation, the study of fear, and how to handle anxiety. What do flat earthers fear most? Is there such thing as a stupid questions?

Next, we discuss electric car-ology with the help of Chevrolet Bolt EUV. Are electric vehicles as good for the environment as everyone says they are? Discover how electric vehicles are transforming the transportation grid. We also explore oil as a strategic commodity and how we can future proof our society. Are electric vehicles only for people in cities? We address range anxiety, Michael Faraday, and how electricity actually works. All that, plus, who’s faster the Chevy Bolt or Usain Bolt?

Thanks to our Patrons Mike S, Luke, Frank (Hopper) Cross, Timur Sultanov, Skyeletta Ramona, Matt W, Bennett Saunders, Vincent Lee, George Gao, and Bob Soltys for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.