The Imagination Desk

Center for Science and Imagination

Imagination: everyone knows you need it to change the world, but nobody really knows how it works. In this podcast from Arizona State University, we chat with artists, writers, scientists and engineers to explore how imagination is viewed, valued, and practiced in their work.

  1. Matt Hefferman

    4d ago

    Matt Hefferman

    The conversation explores the role of imagination in problem-solving, playwriting, language, culture, and technology. It delves into the impact of imagination on identity, the planet, and ethical considerations in AI. The discussion also highlights the use of imagination in navigating difficult situations and the potential of imagination in shaping the future.

    42 min
  2. Pat Patarunutaporn

    4d ago

    Pat Patarunutaporn

    The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to human-AI interaction, imagination, and the impact of AI on human flourishing. It delves into the role of imagination in shaping AI interactions, the design of AI for human flourishing, and the ethical considerations of AI addiction and dependency. The conversation also explores the blurring boundaries of imagination and the need for a human-centered society to shape the future of technology. The conversation delves into the societal impact of AI, the role of imagination and collective storytelling, and the influence of imagination in personal and professional life. It explores the democratization of AI, values and societal impact, building a human-centered society, the role of science fiction, and the power of stories about the future.

    1h 2m
  3. Brian Christian

    4d ago

    Brian Christian

    The conversation explores the intersection of art and technology, the alchemy of language and creativity, the pitfalls of co-creating with AI, and the hopeful future of AI and imagination. It delves into the impact of generative AI on creative agency, the sublime and emergence of style in AI, and the importance of engaging with AI and imagination.

    52 min
  4. Anna Abraham

    4d ago

    Anna Abraham

    The conversation delves into the nature of imagination, its relationship with consciousness, perception, and society, and the impact of the digital age and external influences on imagination. It also explores the paradox of individual and collaborative imagination. The conversation explores the power of distributed reasoning, the nurturing of imagination and creativity, the role of imagination in learning and education, and the importance of maintaining self-imagination in the age of AI. It delves into the impact of digital tools on individual agency and the need for intentional strategies to protect human creativity and imagination.

    59 min
  5. Brendan O'Connor

    04/15/2025

    Brendan O'Connor

    In this conversation, Ed Finn and cognitive scientist Brendan O'Connor delve into the multifaceted nature of imagination, exploring its relationship with memory, its role in present experiences, and the dynamics of collaborative imagination. They discuss how imagination can be trained and practiced, the importance of storytelling, and how shared imaginative experiences can enhance social connections and collective beliefs.

    50 min
  6. Aarathi Krishnan

    04/08/2025

    Aarathi Krishnan

    In this conversation, Ed Finn and Aarathi Krishnan explore the intricate relationship between imagination, risk governance, and the future. They discuss how imagination is essential for decision-makers to navigate the complexities of the modern world, emphasizing the need for a balance between personal and organizational imagination. The dialogue also delves into the roles of hope and fear in motivating change, the importance of storytelling and art in shaping futures, and the challenges faced by individuals and organizations in envisioning a better tomorrow.

    50 min
  7. Ken Liu

    04/01/2025

    Ken Liu

    In this conversation, Ed Finn and Ken Liu delve into the significance of imagination in art, storytelling, and life. They explore how imagination shapes human experience, the collaborative relationship between artists and audiences, and the implications of AI in creative processes. Ken shares insights on the nature of creativity, the role of language, and the importance of embodiment in understanding intelligence. The discussion culminates in personal reflections on the evolution of Ken's imaginative journey as a writer.

    52 min
  8. Taryn O'Neill & Tamara Krinsky

    03/25/2025

    Taryn O'Neill & Tamara Krinsky

    In this engaging conversation, Ed, Tamara, and Taryn explore the multifaceted nature of imagination and its critical role in creativity, filmmaking, and personal growth. They discuss their individual experiences with imagination, the importance of collaboration in the creative process, and how they navigate challenges in filmmaking. The discussion also delves into the impact of film on audience imagination, the need for imaginative capacity in the future, and personal anecdotes illustrating how imagination has saved the day in their careers. The conversation concludes with reflections on the evolving understanding of imagination and its significance in both professional and personal contexts.

    52 min
See All (41)

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Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Imagination: everyone knows you need it to change the world, but nobody really knows how it works. In this podcast from Arizona State University, we chat with artists, writers, scientists and engineers to explore how imagination is viewed, valued, and practiced in their work.

Information

  • Creator
    Center for Science and Imagination
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Center for Science and Imagination
  • Show Website
    The Imagination Desk

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