In today’s fast-paced digital world, information is often spoon-fed in bite-sized portions that barely scratch the surface of the topics being discussed. TikTok and other social media platforms have turned everyone into self-proclaimed intellectuals, philosophers, and academics. But this raises a crucial question: Are these sources truly credible? Do people actually know what they’re talking about?
It seems the art of research—or more accurately, the skill—is becoming a lost practice. People are consuming vast amounts of information without discerning what’s factual, what’s baseless, or taking the time to dig deeper. Of course, this isn’t the case for everyone or everything, but in an age of information overload, it’s important to step back and think critically for yourself.
For those who are eager to dive deeper into subjects and explore them in a more meaningful way, we’ve curated a list of YouTube channels that do just that. These channels span various topics and disciplines, delving into the nitty-gritty details and offering thoughtful, well-researched content.
Like Stories of Old
If you’re a deep thinker and a movie lover, this channel is for you. Like Stories of Old will truly stimulate your mind. Each video is a deep dive into the psychology and underlying themes of iconic movies, offering video essays that blend media analysis, philosophy, and personal development.
Pursuit of Wonder
Top-tier storytelling that can turn anyone into a philosophy lover. This channel in specific encourages reflection through powerful ideas and stories. Through video essays, short stories, guided experiences, and more, it explores a wide range of topics related to philosophy, psychology, science, literature, well-being, and beyond. The aim is to inspire a reconnection with childlike wonder and a comfort with the uncertainty and absurdity of existence.
Big Think
If you want to learn something new every day from industry leaders, Big Think is your go-to channel. Each episode is filmed cinematically and packed with fascinating information about science and technology. As a leading source of expert-driven, actionable content, Big Think features thousands of videos from experts like Bill Clinton, Bill Nye, Michio Kaku, and Neil DeGrasse Tyson. The channel helps you explore big ideas and core skills that define knowledge in the 21st century, allowing you to apply them to the challenges in your own life.
Academy of Ideas
Academy of Ideas is essentially a collection of video essays focused on psychology and philosophy. This channel is perfect for anyone looking to explore complex ideas in these fields through concise, well-articulated content.
Veritasium
An element of truth—Veritasium offers videos about science, education, and anything else its creator finds interesting. This channel dives into a wide range of topics, always aiming to reveal the truth behind the subject matter, making learning both engaging and informative.
