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Particles of Thought

Particles of Thought

By: GBH
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Particles of Thought from the producers of NOVA unleashes the universe's biggest questions through the lens of astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi and the world's most brilliant scientific minds. Should we resurrect extinct species? Are we blind to a fundamental force of nature? What secrets do ancient fossils reveal about humanity's destiny? Across 10 mind-bending episodes, each conversation dives deep into the discoveries that shatter assumptions, spark wonder, and completely transform how you understand reality.


Learn more about NOVA and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

©2020 WGBH Educational Foundation Science
Episodes
  • How Fame Affects the Brain | Heather Berlin

    How Fame Affects the Brain | Heather Berlin
    Dec 11 2025

    Fame can hijack the brain like a drug—activating the same reward circuits that fuel a relentless chase for dopamine highs. Neuroscientist Heather Berlin reveals the antidote—and why even social media fame can trigger this cycle.

    For more, check out the extended interview with Heather Berlin.

    Learn more about NOVA and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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    10 mins
  • How Fossils Form and How to Find Them | Kirk Johnson

    How Fossils Form and How to Find Them | Kirk Johnson
    Dec 10 2025

    Fossilization isn’t luck - it’s geology. Paleobotanist Kirk Johnson explains how fossils only form in certain conditions, the tricks to finding them, and why one fossil leaf can lead to thousands more.

    For more, check out the extended interview with Kirk Johnson.

    Learn more about NOVA and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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    15 mins
  • Why Only Some Species Can Talk—and Dance | Erich Jarvis

    Why Only Some Species Can Talk—and Dance | Erich Jarvis
    Dec 8 2025

    Speech is rare in the animal kingdom because it requires a very specific brain architecture. Neuroscientist Erich Jarvis explains how duplicating neural pathways for movement unlocked language, dancing, and even advanced problem-solving in more than just humans.

    For more, check out the extended interview with Erich Jarvis.

    Learn more about NOVA and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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    10 mins
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As a retired IT professional, a retired clergyman, and a great-grandfather, I found this interview to be very informative. It is well-documented with crystal clear illustrations, and is presented by someone intensely involved in front-line work. Regardless of your age or career, these thoughts are vitally important as we all prepare for the disturbingly uncertain years just ahead.

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