The Science Show

Stories of AI chatbot users drifting from our shared reality are increasingly common, often described as cases of AI delusions, delusional spirals, or AI psychosis.
New research from Stanford University and the Human Line Project investigates the mechanisms behind these delusions, asking whether AI is making people more delusional or whether these chatbots are simply agreeing with delusional thinking.
You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science editor and presenter Jonathan Webb on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more.
Get in touch with us: [email protected]
Featuring:
James Purtill, technology reporter
Further information:
The Dynamics of Delusion: Modeling Bidirectional False Belief Amplification in Human-Chatbot Dialogue
Characterizing Delusional Spirals through Human-LLM Chat Logs
This episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Gadigal, Ngunnawal and Ngambri people.

The much-loved naturalist David Attenborough is 100. And still working!

For more than 70 years, Sir David Attenborough has shown audiences awe-inspiring moments in nature. In this tribute we reflect on the immense contribution the legendary naturalist has made to our appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a vast current that helps move water and energy right around our planet, from top to bottom. Scientists say it is slowing down — and might stop altogether, with dire consequences for the global climate if it does. 
So how do major ocean currents work, why is it slowing down, and what will happen if it collapses?
You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science editor and presenter Jonathan Webb on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more.
Get in touch with us: [email protected]
Featuring:
Laurie Menviel, climate researcher at UNSW
This episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Gadigal and Menang Noongar people.

Australia’s research potential is not matched by funding. Belinda Smith speaks to scientists impacted and science minister Tim Ayres responds.