Why we love unexplainable mysteries

The allure of unexplained mysteries captures our fascination, even when answers remain elusive. This sentiment is central to the Vox podcast Unexplainable, which delves into scientific unknowns ranging from dark matter to the nature of consciousness. Host Noam Hassenfeld discussed the podcast's mission to acknowledge the fallibility of scientists and the inherent limitations of our understanding.

While cosmic questions like the origin of the universe and the evolution of life are often the most captivating, the show also explores mundane mysteries such as why humans cry, why yogurt might be classified as its own state of matter, and why some individuals cannot burp. Hassenfeld emphasized that even everyday questions can be equally unexplainable and underscore the vast unknowns that surround us.

The podcast has investigated whether plants can perceive their surroundings, the fundamental question of how bicycles maintain balance, and the provocative concept that the entire observable universe might reside within a black hole. Hassenfeld reflected on the possibility that some questions may be fundamentally unanswerable due to the limitations of observation or the repercussions of potential discoveries.

He cautioned that while seeking answers can lead to breakthroughs and understanding, there are instances where answers might pose significant dangers, such as the development of the atomic bomb. Moreover, Hassenfeld argued that the pursuit of perfection in scientific inquiry can sometimes lead to ethically questionable practices, as evidenced by historical abuses in fertility treatments.

Despite the enormity of what remains unknown, Hassenfeld expressed a sense of wonder at the complexity of the world, acknowledging that even the most fundamental aspects of existence—like the mechanics of a bicycle or the science of smell—are still shrouded in mystery.