This week, Dr Jochen Fiedler and Dr Sascha Feth, together with moderator Esther Packullat, take a closer look at the topic »end of the world«. They try to examine the end of the world with the help of the Doomsday Argument, which is based on probability theory and statistics. What conclusions do the three come to, what other considerations do they take into account and can the end of the world really be statistically predicted?
In this podcast episode, our Streuspanne team deals with the end of the world. However, not, as some of you may have heard, in connection with climate catastrophes, nuclear wars, pandemics or similar events. No, the end of the world is only predicted with the help of probability theory and statistics. At least the doomsday argument promises a rational basis for the end date of humanity.
Dr Jochen Fiedler and Dr Sascha Feth shed light on what is meant by the Doomsday Argument and how it could bring clarity to the end of the world. In the process, Esther Packullat, as moderator, leads the podcast in a questioning manner.
They examine what effects the Doomsday Argument could have, take it apart with mind games and look at what other theories there are that question the validity of the argument. What conclusions do the three come to, what other considerations do they take into account and can the end of the world really be calculated statistically? Sounds dramatic, but it is, because at least this is certain: the world will end at some point.
Despite the end of the world, please remember: if you come across a statistic, an exciting mathematical thought experiment or a number in the media, let us know and we might discuss your topic suggestion in the next podcast.
The podcast is only availalbe in German.
Find the podcast on all major portals including Spotify, Podcasters, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Deezer, Google , RadioPublic , Pocket Casts and here on the ITWM website.
Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWM