Samir Varma is a physicist, investor, and author of the book: The Science of Free Will, How Determinism Affects Everything from the Future of AI to Traffic to God to Bees.' We discuss AI consciousness, the theoretical versus practical aspects of free will, and how determinism informs our understanding of human behaviour, moral philosophy, and even financial markets.

“Even though there is no free will in theory, because the laws of physics are deterministic… we don’t know what we’re going to do until we’ve done it.”

“The only way to find out how your life will end is to live it.”

Varma delves into the physics of free will, his insights on the applicability of chaos theory, and why certain financial and societal structures might need reevaluation.

The conversation touches on the evolution and mechanics of intellectual property, the intricacies of cricket, and the profound layers that make Pink Floyd's music a unique listening experience. Varma also shares his varied projects, including innovations in solar energy and traffic management.

The discussion culminates with practical life advice focused on pursuing meaningful and passionate work.

Transcript: https://www.thendobetter.com/investing/2025/4/11/samir-varma-free-will-physics-traffic-bees-emotions-chaos-theory-cricket-finance-podcast

Contents

• 00:23 Will AI Gain Consciousness?

• 02:11 The Concept of Free Will in Theory and Practice

• 04:19 Quantum Theory and Determinism

• 18:58 Chaos Theory and Free Will

• 23:20 Death and the Reorganization of Atoms

• 25:37 Animal Consciousness and Communication

• 30:23 Implications for Society and Justice

• 37:48 Emotions and Rationality

• 41:08 Misunderstandings in Finance

• 44:39 Debunking Market Value Myths

• 47:43 The Momentum Factor Explained

• 57:14 The Unique Appeal of Pink Floyd

• 01:02:40 Understanding Cricket's Complexity

• 01:09:58 Overrated or Underrated?

• 01:19:28 Insights on Writing and Creativity

• 01:23:11 Final Thoughts and Life Advice

Mary-Ann Ochota is a broadcaster, anthropologist, and writer known for her work on Time Team and books on archaeology and the British landscape.

“Archaeology is ultimately about people – the stories of people in the past and how they lived their lives.”

Mary-Ann discusses her visits to Chernobyl, British henges and the Australian Simpson Desert; exploring themes of resilience and environmental recovery.

“One of the big misconceptions is that archaeology is just about digging things up.”

She shares insights on ancient British sites and the broader implications of sustainable development and access to nature. We discuss her role as president of the Countryside Charity and her thoughts on the future of rural development are highlighted, along with her creative writing process and advice for connecting with nature.

“We’re all living on top of layers of history, whether we realise it or not.”

Transcript and links: https://www.thendobetter.com/arts/2025/4/4/mary-ann-ochota-adventure-resilience-unveiling-hidden-histories-archeology-and-the-ancient-world-podcast

Summary Contents:

• 00:31 Exploring Chernobyl's Impact

• 04:59 The Resilience of Nature

• 05:55 Adventures in the Simpson Desert

• 13:56 Ancient Sites in the UK

• 17:10 Access to Nature and Social Barriers

• 31:56 The Ridgeway National Trail

• 38:33 Exploring the Purpose of Henges

• 39:29 Ancient Feasts and Food Waste

• 40:15 Reevaluating Ancient Civilizations

• 44:32 Imagination and Environmental Crisis

• 47:53 Balancing Hope and Realism

• 50:06 Writing Process and Creative Challenges

• 01:04:24 Sustainable Development and Land Use

• 01:11:32 Life Advice

Political philosopher Rebecca Lowe discusses her views on freedom, equality, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. Currently writing a book titled 'Freedom in Utopia,' Rebecca delves into philosophical debates concerning obligations to extinct animals, the ethics of eating meat, and the future potential of lab-grown meat.

On questioning norms and making choices:
“Think hard about what the norms are that you follow unthinkingly. There are many ways to live a good life, and it’s for you to work that out for yourself, because you’re the only person who can have any systemic access to that.”

On fiction and its philosophical role:
“I feel quite strongly that people who don’t spend time reading fiction are really missing out on one of the great things about being human—the capacity to separate out from your daily life, think about other worlds, imagine.”

She also touches on the moral considerations surrounding artificial wombs, the possible role of ChatGPT as a tool for philosophical inquiry, and her disillusioning experience running for political office. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of decentralization, freedom, and respect in society while also sharing her creative process and insights into leading a fulfilling life.

Transcript and video available here.

Contents

• 00:22 Reviving Extinct Animals

• 02:29 Moral Implications of Eating Meat

• 07:47 Future Moral Consensus

• 11:25 Consequentialism in Healthcare

• 19:21 ChatGPT as a Philosopher

• 25:28 Artificial Wombs and Ethical Questions

• 30:33 Rebecca's Political Journey

• 34:43 Creative Process and Philosophy

• 37:50 The Importance of Reading Fiction

• 41:03 Imagining the Best Possible Society

• 42:19 The Role of Prisons in Utopia

• 46:01 Education in an Ideal Society

• 49:05 Cultural Goods and Utopia

• 52:18 Healthcare and Resource Allocation

• 55:11 Under rated / Over rated

• 58:55 Final Thoughts and Advice