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85 | How laziness invites discovery – Robert Root-Bernstein

June 8, 2026 · 39 min

Show notes

Professor Robert Root-Bernstein has not only made many scientific discoveries, but has also written extensively about the creative process, including in Sparks of Genius (with Michele Root-Bernstein) and in his latest book, The Arts of Eminent Scientists. Bob found that successful scientists do not treat their “lazy” creative pursuits, such as painting, music, or writing, as distractions from science, but integrate them into one coherent life. Among other things, we also explore problem finding and how artistic practices can sharpen observation and generate powerful analogies.

The Night Science Podcast is produced by the Night Science Institute. For more information on Night Science, visit night-science.org .

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