The Michigan State University Office of Research and Innovation has launched “Manifold,” a new podcast series that aims to take a hard look at today’s intellectual issues and controversies from varying points of view.
“The explosion of interest in podcasts motivated us to try something new,” said Steve Hsu, senior vice president for research and innovation.
The show is focused on in-depth discussions with people who are creating or envisioning the future: academics, scientists, technologists, startup entrepreneurs and venture capitalists.
“While invited lectures on campus are necessarily limited in time and place, the podcast format is available on demand, allowing the listener to consume content on their schedule,” said co-host Corey Washington, director of analytics in research and innovation. “This helps to expand the reach and dialogue on the topic.”
Soon-to-be-released episodes include philosopher Sam Kerstien (University of Maryland) on the ethics of gene editing and selection and Joseph Cesario (MSU) on racial bias in police shootings.
“We want the show to be at a level that is somewhat more accessible than a specialized academic seminar, but without sacrificing a deeper understanding of new ideas and research breakthroughs,” Hsu said.
New episodes are released biweekly on YouTube, iTunes and Spotify. Listeners can subscribe or simply visit Manifold’s website directly to search episodes.
MSU faculty are encouraged to suggest individuals for interview on the series by emailing manifld@msu.edu.
