Understanding Risk in a Modern SocietyAshley interviews Olek Pisera, a recent PhD graduate in biomedical engineering. They discuss various topics, including the importance of independent thinking in science, the complexities of public health recommendations, and the societal implications of risk perception during the COVID-19 pandemic. Olek shares insights from his research on sunscreen and car seats, highlighting the contradictions in public health messaging and the challenges of scientific consensus. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of group behavior and the erosion of public trust in health authorities. In this conversation, Ashley and Olek Pisera explore the complexities surrounding vaccines, personal health decisions, and the implications of IVF and genetic editing. They discuss the erosion of trust in the medical establishment, the balance between safetyism and living a fulfilling life, and the ethical considerations of emerging biotechnologies. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open discussions about these topics and the potential societal impacts of advancements in biomedical engineering.