Deep Dive: V‑J Day Reverberations, Mandela’s Long Game, and the Octopus’ RNA Trick - August 14, 2025

In this Deep Dive episode, our hosts discuss the historical and human moments that reshaped the 20th century and surprising science that might shape the future.

• 📜 We examine Japan’s 1945 announcement of surrender — from Hirohito’s shocking radio address and spontaneous V‑J Day celebrations to the logistical, diplomatic, and geopolitical challenges of occupation, repatriation, and the reshaping of U.S. global leadership.
• 🎂 Today’s birthday spotlight turns to Nelson Mandela: his evolution from Rivonia defendant to 27 years in prison to presidency, focusing on his tactical patience, archival stewardship inside Robben Island, coalition‑building, and the reconciliation strategy embodied in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
• 💡 Fact of the day: octopuses can edit their own RNA in real time — a molecular “live patch” that tunes neural proteins without changing DNA, raising questions about rapid biological adaptability and potential impacts on biotech, regulation, and how we tell stories about intelligence.

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