Brian Cox: Science communication is not that simple

Space exploration has got us closer to answering one of humanity's oldest questions: «Are we alone in the universe?». Research and science give us new data and knowledge and drive innovation. They are a safe investment because they pay for themselves, argues Brian Cox, the UK's most famous experimental physicist.

Often labelled a «rock star scientist», his books and TV shows about the universe are known worldwide. In this episode, Brian Cox explores the difference between reliable knowledge and opinion and discusses the challenges posed by social media and the 'noise' it creates for scientists communicating their discoveries to the general public.

The University of Manchester professor examines climate change and how astronomy shows us how insignificant, but also special, we are as a species.

In this interview, moderated by Pedro Pinto, he discusses the possibility of colonising a «Planet B», before explaining how remote the chance of an Artificial Intelligence gaining consciousness is. However, he warns of the very serious risks associated with the possibility of AI making decisions for human beings.

Finally, the expert reflects on the likelihood of extraterrestrial life, in a talk that is well worth watching.