UNSW Centre for Ideas UNSW Centre for Ideas

In a world inundated with deep fakes, fake news and misinformation, is it possible to see beyond the tall tales and reach the truth?  Evolutionary biologist Carl Bergstrom believes we can. His book, Calling Bullshit: The Art of Scepticism in a Data-Driven World, serves as a vital tool to unblur the line between fact and fiction in our fast-paced digital age. With provoking insights and analytical prowess, Bergstrom equips us with the critical thinking tools needed to navigate the labyrinth of information flooding our lives.  Hear Carl Bergstrom in conversation with UNSW Scientia Professor Rob Brooks as they uncover how to question the reliability of sources, dissect the credibility of data, and hone your ability to discern fact from fiction in our technologically-driven world. Wielding the power of scepticism and a bullsh*t detector as a force for good may be society’s greatest asset and greatest challenge.Presented by the UNSW Centre for Ideas and UNSW Science. 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BioNTech founders Professor Uğur Şahin, M.D. and Professor Özlem Türeci, M.D., in an exclusive conversation with UNSW Provost, Professor Vlado Perkovic, discuss how to translate science into survival by combining fundamental research and operational excellence to develop new immunotherapies.

Together with its partner Pfizer, BioNTech led the global COVID-19 vaccine effort with the successful development of the first approved mRNA vaccine, known today as the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

But, what’s next? 

Can mRNA technology change individualised cancer medicine or cure infectious disease? How can scientists evaluate next generation diagnostics and medicines? What type of ecosystem will enable next generation clinical trials at scale? Is it possible to accelerate access to precision medicine for Australians who need it? Hear how these global leaders want to improve the health of people worldwide and their efforts to make it a reality.  Presented by UNSW Medicine & Health.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From being the second woman appointed to the US Supreme Court until her passing, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's inspiring journey through the legal realm was characterised by her fierce advocacy for gender equality and justice, and provided the backdrop for an evening of conversation about the work, RBG: Of Many, One. 

Step into the captivating world of theatre and law as we bring together three remarkable women – playwright and legal luminary, Suzie Miller, and acclaimed actor Heather Mitchell in conversation with producer Jo Dyer – who have left an indelible mark on the stage and beyond.  

Hear them draw back the curtain on the alchemy that gave life to the mesmerising RBG. An engaging conversation that unites their unique perspectives, unveiling the delicate interplay of literary finesse and theatrical brilliance. Presented by UNSW Law & Justice, UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture and Sydney Theatre Company. 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2018 Egyptian-Australian writer Lamisse Hamouda had moved to Egypt to study when her life was turned upside down. Her father Hazem, on his way to visit her, was arrested by authorities, accused of sympathising with a terrorist organisation, and sent to prison without charge or evidence for 433 days.In conversation with UNSW Middle East expert Lana Tatour, Lamisse delved into her book, The Shape of Dust, and her experience fighting against the Egyptian prison system as an Australian citizen. Together, they unpack what support the Australian Government provides dual citizens abroad (surprisingly minimal), what cultural identity means for individuals stuck between two cultural worlds, and how trauma can fragment memory, bringing unexpected challenges to the writing process.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The way we consume news is changing and traditional media is struggling to keep up with our forever online lifestyles. The Daily Aus is changing that – and fast. 

With unstoppable co-founders Sam Koslowski and Zara Seidler at the helm, The Daily Aus has cracked the code on resonating with young people, distilling the big news stories of the day into accessible, bite sized pieces. From fearless journalists to savvy entrepreneurs, witness the rise of a new generation that's leaving a lasting imprint. Hear from Zara Seidler and Sam Koslowski in conversation with editor and podcaster Clare Stephens, as they unpack the big business of youth-focused news and reveal how digital platforms are transforming the news landscape.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the treacherous battlegrounds of Afghanistan to the frontlines of the Federal Court, the 110-day defamation trial of Ben Roberts-Smith emerged as a monumental test case, examining the very essence of truth as defence in an Australian defamation trial. 

This trial marked the first time an Australian court scrutinised allegations of war crimes committed by Australian troops, and highlighted the financial and emotional costs of pursuing an uncomfortable truth in the newspaper. But what comes next? 

Hear from investigative journalist Chris Masters, UNSW Sydney legal experts Douglas Guilfoyle and Daniel Joyce and host Geraldine Doogue as they unravel the remarkable story of Ben Roberts-Smith examining the highly anticipated trial of the century and unpacking what it means for journalism and justice in Australia. 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.