Heather Barnett: What humans can learn from semi-intelligent slime

The video explores the fascinating world of the slime mold, Physarum polycephalum, highlighting its unique characteristics and behaviors. The artist shares personal experiences and observations, demonstrating the organism's ability to solve complex problems and learn from its environment. Scientific studies reveal its primitive intelligence and computational abilities. The Slime Mould Collective fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement, while a human experiment mimics slime mold behavior to explore community dynamics. The slime mold serves as both a biological tool and a metaphor for social cohesion and cooperation.

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes slime molds from traditional molds?

Describe the feeding habits of Physarum polycephalum.

How does Physarum polycephalum demonstrate problem-solving abilities in maze experiments?

What conclusions can be drawn from the slime mold's response to cold air exposure?

Explain how the slime mold replicates the Tokyo transport network.

How does the slime mold's behavior challenge our understanding of intelligence?

Discuss the significance of the rhythmic pulsing flow observed in slime molds.

What role does the Slime Mould Collective play in slime mold research?

What are some creative applications of slime mold in art and design?

What insights were gained from the human slime mold experiment conducted in Rotterdam?