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 massive tsunami submerged the connection between Britain and Europe 8,000 years ago. They also discuss the origins of the concept of "coolness" and the physiological reasons behind the "stank face" reaction to heavy bass music. The episode concludes with book recommendations, including Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary and Terry Pratchett’s Reaper Man.
Topics discussed
Guessing the mystery object: a mammoth vertebra
Introduction to Doggerland and the lost landmass
Historical evidence: fishermen, artifacts, and Neanderthal skulls
Geological mapping reveals Doggerland's forests and depth
The 8,000-year-old tsunami that erased Doggerland
Etymology of Doggerland and the mammoth's journey
Ancient hominid footprints found in Norfolk estuary silt
Field Notes auction joke and sponsor breaks
Listener question: The history and definition of 'coolness'
Listener question: Why heavy music causes the 'stank face'
Tangential discussion on classical music and stank face
Listener question: Current reading lists and book recommendations
Outro and final sponsor reads
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