Monday Science

• #ThrowbackThursday - Love in the Metaverse

  Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of consent, sexual assault, and sexual harassment.In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham speaks with Dr. Douglas Zytko, Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at Oakland University, about how virtual reality is reshaping the landscape of dating and relationships.About the EpisodeAs virtual reality technology becomes more immersive and accessible, new forms of connection are emerging—especially in the realm of dating. This episode explores the rise of VR dating platforms, their similarities and differences compared to in-person interactions, and the psychological and social implications of falling in love in a digital space.Together, Dr. Raimi-Abraham and Dr. Zytko examine the potential benefits—such as accessibility and safety—as well as the challenges, including questions about authenticity, consent, and emotional connection. Could virtual reality enhance our capacity to form meaningful relationships, or is something vital lost when touch and presence are replaced with code and avatars?Tune in for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of technology, intimacy, and the future of human connection.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, comment, and leave a review. We’d love to hear from you!

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• Black Mirror S7 Ep3 Recap & When Love Lives in Code

  Trigger Warning: This episode discusses themes of love, identity, and emotional connection in AI, and briefly references ethical concerns around AI consciousness.In this live episode of Monday Science, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham dives into the third episode of Black Mirror Season 7, “Hotel Reverie,” starring Issa Rae. This episode blurs the line between simulated affection and human emotion, asking: What if the person you loved only existed in code?Bahijja explores the emotional and ethical implications of falling in love with an AI, the limits of memory and agency in simulated consciousness, and the question of whether virtual intimacy can replace—or enhance—real-life relationships. Drawing connections to real-world examples like emotional AI companions, voice cloning in Hollywood, and the growing phenomenon of love in the metaverse, this conversation is both deeply human and technologically grounded.💬 Topics explored:AI consciousness, memory, and emotional residueVirtual reality love stories and metaverse relationshipsThe creative stagnation in film and scienceEthical dilemmas of sentient AI and identityReal-world case studies: Replica, James Earl Jones’ AI voice, and Peter Scott-Morgan’s journey as a cyborgWhether you’re a Black Mirror fan or just curious about the future of tech and human emotion, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it means to love, remember, and connect.Follow, rate, share, and stay connected on @mondayscience on all podcast platforms.

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• #ThrowbackThursday - The myth that we only use 10% of our brain is false!

  #ThrowbackThursdayIn Part II of this conversation, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham interviews Professor Joseph Devlin (Joe) on various topics related to psychology and consumer behavior. They discuss Joe's research on the relationship between male genitalia size perception and interest in high-end sports cars, the concept of addressable TV advertising, and the impact of extreme experiences on creativity. They also debunk common brain myths, such as the idea that we only use 10% of our brain and the notion of being left-brained or right-brained. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding human behavior and the role it plays in various aspects of life.🚀 Stay connected: Subscribe, follow, comment, and leave a review.🎤 Have questions from this interview? Send them in! Via our website: ⁠https://www.mondaysciencepodcast.com/⁠📧 Reach out via email: ⁠info@mondaysciencepodcast.com

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• Black Mirror S7 Ep2 Recap & the Fragile Nature of Reality

  In this Monday Science LIVE episode, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham breaks down Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 2 – Bête Noire, exploring how technology, memory, and perception collide. From the unsettling power of quantum computing to the mystery of the Mandela Effect, Dr Bahijja unpacks the science and ethics behind one of the season’s most psychologically intense episodes.This conversation goes beyond fiction, inviting listeners to reflect on real-world themes of truth, identity, and trauma. Through a mix of science, lived experience, and pop culture, the episode examines how memory can be shaped—and sometimes distorted—by both our past and the technologies around us.🔍 Topics covered include:The Mandela Effect and collective false memoriesQuantum computing and its influence on perceptionRevenge, trauma, and accountabilityMicroaggressions and workplace dynamicsNews narratives and memory manipulationWhat defines reality—and who controls it?💡 Takeaways:The fragile nature of truth is shaped by culture and technologyMemory isn’t fixed—and can be manipulatedChildhood experiences can leave lasting psychological effectsPower, identity, and perception are deeply intertwined📚 Whether you're into neuroscience, ethics, tech, or just love Black Mirror, this episode will challenge your perspective and expand your thinking.📬 Got thoughts? Email: info@mondaysciencepodcast.com📱 Follow and join the discussion: @MondayScience on TikTok & Instagram

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• #ThrowbackThursday - How can markers of masculinity influence consumer behavior?

  #ThrowbackThursday In the first of two episodes, Dr. Bahijja Raimi-Abraham interviews Professor Joseph Devlin about his work in consumer neuroscience and neuromarketing. They discuss the importance of understanding consumer behaviour and the ethical considerations surrounding data collection and use. They also touch on the topic of masculinity and its influence on consumer behaviour.🚀 Stay connected: Subscribe, follow, comment, and leave a review.🎤 Have questions from this interview? Send them in! Via our website: ⁠https://www.mondaysciencepodcast.com/⁠📧 Reach out via email: ⁠info@mondaysciencepodcast.com

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