On the NPR TED Radio Hour, Sunday 14th December, Newstalk FM:
Science and technology now allow us to "hack" solutions to the biggest challenges of our time. But how far is too far? And what are the consequences of these hacks? In this episode, we hear stories from TED speakers who dare to hack the brain, the climate, and even the animal kingdom in hopes of creating a better world.
In 1986, the first PC virus, 'Brain', began to spread. What was once annoying has become a sophisticated tool for crime. Computer security expert Mikko Hypponen describes discovering 'Brain' and why the guys who wrote it never meant any harm.
Mankind has driven species after species extinct. Now Stewart Brand says we have the technology to bring back the species that we wiped out. So should we? Which ones? He asks one big question, and the answer is closer than you may think.
Environmental scientist David Keith proposes a cheap and surprising way to address climate change: What if we inject a huge cloud of sulfur into the atmosphere to deflect sunlight and heat?
Why can't two slices of pizza be used as a slide clicker? Why shouldn't you make music with ketchup? Inventor Jay Silver talks about the urge to play with the world around you, and demos 'MaKey MaKey', a kit for hacking everyday objects.
Neurosurgeon Andres Lozano talks about dramatic findings in deep brain stimulation, which are helping people struggling with depression, obesity, and even diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimers.
Listen back to TED Radio Hour 'The Hackers' here.
