Ep 170 "Will Mars Create a New Species of Human?" with Scott Solomon
Summary
David Eagleman interviews evolutionary biologist Scott Solomon to explore how living on Mars would fundamentally alter human biology. They discuss the biological challenges of low gravity, limited microbial diversity, and radiation exposure, which could prevent Martians from returning to Earth. The conversation examines whether gene editing and AI will be necessary for survival and if long-term isolation could lead to a new human species. Ultimately, they consider how adapting to space might drive scientific breakthroughs that benefit life on Earth.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Can Martians survive on Earth?
Sponsors: NextSense, Granger, Indeed
Humans as Earth-adapted organisms
Gravity and circadian rhythms on Earth
Life and light cycles on the Moon
Biological effects of low gravity on Mars
Microbiomes and reproduction in space
Robotics and AI for medical care
Sponsors: NextSense, VIR, Airtasker
Gene editing and immune system divergence
Speciation and multiple human species
Visiting Earth: Nature and sensory experience
Terraforming Mars and radiation shielding
Radiation adaptation and the role of dreaming
Conclusion: The future of human evolution
Sponsors: NextSense, VIR, The Beam, TNA
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