Are we on the brink of unraveling the universe's greatest mysteries, or are some questions better left unanswered? Dive into the mind-bending world of science with IFLScience's The Big Questions podcast, where Season 5 tackles the most perplexing scientific enigmas of 2025. From the possibility of de-extinction to the psychology behind paranormal beliefs, and even a quest for the elusive Nessie, this season leaves no stone unturned. But here's where it gets controversial: Can we ethically bring back extinct species? And what does our trash say about humanity's legacy in the fossil record?
Hosted by a dynamic team including Dr. Alfredo Carpineti, Katy Evans, and Tom Hale, each episode features top international experts pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. But this is the part most people miss: What if the answers to these questions challenge everything we thought we knew about science, ethics, and our place in the universe?
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:
Episode 1 – The Ultimate Adventure: Space or the Deep Sea?
Ever wondered which frontier is more awe-inspiring? We ask astronauts and deep-sea explorers like Luca Parmitano and Dr. Kathy Sullivan to weigh in on the ultimate human adventure.
Episode 2 – The Sixth Mass Extinction: Are We Living It?
Palaeontologist Professor Michael Benton helps us understand if we’re in the midst of another mass extinction—and what we can do to prevent it. Bold question: Are humans the architects of our own ecological downfall?
Episode 3 – Black Holes: The Universe’s Architects
Astrophysicist Dr. Becky Smethurst reveals how these cosmic monsters shape galaxies. Controversial thought: Could black holes hold the key to understanding the universe’s origins?
Episode 4 – The Internet’s Linguistic Revolution
Linguist Dr. Gretchen McCulloch decodes how emojis, memes, and acronyms are transforming language. Provocative idea: Is the internet killing traditional language, or evolving it?
Episode 5 – The Holy Grail of Vaccines: A Universal Flu Shot
Vaccinology expert Dr. Florian Krammer discusses whether a one-size-fits-all flu vaccine is within reach. Debate starter: Could this be the end of seasonal flu shots?
Episode 6 – Technofossils: The Future’s Geological Legacy
Professors Sarah Gabbott and Jan Zalasiewicz explore how our trash might become tomorrow’s fossils. Thought-provoking question: Can we change our legacy before it’s too late?
Episode 7 – The Anthropocene: A New Era of Human Impact
Professor Erle Ellis explains why some scientists believe we’ve entered a new geological epoch defined by human activity. Controversial angle: Is the Anthropocene a call to action or a resignation to our planet’s fate?
Episode 8 – De-Extinction: Science Fiction or Reality?
Colossal Biosciences’ Ben Lamm, Beth Shapiro, and Matt James discuss reviving extinct species, while historian Sadiah Qureshi raises ethical questions. Bold question: Should we play God with nature?
Episode 9 – Time: The Ultimate Enigma
Dr. Emily Akkermans, Curator of Time, unravels the mysteries of time itself. Mind-bending idea: What if time isn’t linear at all?
Episode 10 – The Paranormal: Why We Believe
Emeritus Professor Chris French explores the psychology behind ghosts, aliens, and cults. Controversial take: Are paranormal beliefs a coping mechanism for the unknown?
Halloween Special – Hunting Nessie: Cryptozoology Unveiled
Join the IFLScience team as they search for the Loch Ness Monster and film their first documentary. Teaser: Did they find evidence, or is Nessie just a myth?
Each episode is a journey into the unknown, blending cutting-edge science with thought-provoking discussions. But here’s the real question: Are you ready to challenge your understanding of the world? Tune in, and let us know what you think in the comments—agree or disagree, we want to hear your take!
