Episode · People I (Mostly) Admire · 2025-03-01

Books mentioned on 152. Hunting for the Origins of Life

2 books · With Jack Szostak · Listen · Watch on YouTube

Chemist Jack Szostak wants to understand how the first life forms came into being on Earth. He and Steve discuss the danger of "mirror bacteria," the origin of biology in poisonous chemicals, and the possibility that life might exist on other planets too.

Steve Levitt discussed Is Earth Exceptional? by Dr. Mario Livio and others. Also mentioned: What Is It Like to Be an Addict? by Owen Flanagan.

Books mentioned, in the order they came up

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1. 

   Is Earth Exceptional?

   Dr. Mario Livio; Dr. Jack Szostak · at 1:40 · mentioned 2 times

   Discussed

   “he's co-authored a book on the topic called is Earth exceptional the Quest for Cosmic life”

   Steve Levitt 152. Hunting for the Origins of Life 2025-03-01 ▶ Play 2:13

   Where to get it

   AmazonListen on Audible
2. 

   What Is It Like to Be an Addict?

   Owen Flanagan · at 37:36

   What Is It Like to Be an Addict? by Owen Flanagan is a compelling exploration of substance use that combines rigorous scientific research and cutting-edge thinking with a deeply personal memoir.

   Discussed

   “in our last new new episode we interviewed psychologist and neurobiologist Owen Flanigan who recently wrote a book on addiction it's based on research but also is part Memoir”

   Speaker 152. Hunting for the Origins of Life 2025-03-01 Listen at 37:36

   Where to get it

   AmazonListen on Audible