What Was A Mammoth Doing At The Bottom Of The Sea?
Summary
Hannah Fry and Michael Stevens explore the lost landmass of Doggerland, explaining how a tsunami 8,000 years ago submerged the connection between Britain and Europe. They discuss the discovery of ancient hominid footprints in Norfolk and the geological evidence of this submerged continent. The episode also covers the cultural concept of "coolness," its origins in the 1930s, and the physiological reasons behind the "stank face" reaction to heavy music. Finally, the hosts share their current reading lists, including Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary and Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels.
Topics discussed
Guessing the identity of a mysterious fossil bone
Introduction to the lost land of Doggerland
The UK's connection to continental Europe
Early evidence: fishermen's finds and pollen analysis
Neanderthal remains and the oil industry's role
Seismic surveys reveal Doggerland's geography
The 8,000-year-old tsunami that erased Doggerland
Geological evidence of the catastrophic event
The origin of the name Doggerland
Ancient hominid footprints found in Norfolk
Listener question: The history and nature of 'coolness'
Listener question: Why do we make 'stank faces' at heavy music?
Discussion on classical music and personal favorites
Listener question: Current reading recommendations
Closing remarks and ways to contact the show
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