Where anything goes – as long as it's good | 24 May 2022 View in browser
"I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature, which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us alright." – Henry David Thoreau, philosopher-scientist
Welcome to A WORLD OF GOOD. Inspired by our topsy turvy world feeling like it's being yanked off its axis, this week we're feeling a magnetic pull towards understanding things that puzzle. Magnets being one of them. They’re mysterious, magical and everywhere in the cosmos, but it’s in our brains and in the Bermuda Triangle that things get really weird. Or do they?
In today's newsletter: award-winning 'Willy Wonka of Design' Nelly Ben Hayoun meets the 'real Iron Man', and goes diving for shipwreck stories with Bermuda’s Custodian of Historic Wrecks (there really is such a thing). Plus, we measure space with sci-fi legend David Brin, smell the universe with a top perfumier, and explore the power of lightning. However, it's in the Big Bang Quiz that things get especially curious.
Until next time, trust your magnetic sixth sense and take a few lessons from the Bermudians. There's a scientific reason why they're so nice.
An underwater explorer with a sixth sense for shipwreck stories takes off his snorkel to unravel mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle in this quirky chat with Nelly Ben Hayoun. And we find out why Bermudians are so damn nice.
Maverick geologist Joseph Kirschvink can’t shoot rays from his wrists – as far we know. Find out why he's known as the 'real Iron Man' as he chats to Nelly Ben Hayoun about beautiful bacteria, brain magnets and atomic jam.
The universe is pretty damn big. But how big? Acclaimed science fiction author David Brin explores its vast scale thanks to 21 mind-blowing interactive maps, graphics and films – and with the help of some animals.
Science, myths and radio collide to prevent farmers being killed in this strange but true story about the rural communities in Zimbabwe who think that people can harness lightning to kill their enemies.
Season 01 of TOPIA is inspired by The Big Bang. This tricky 50-question quiz based around the cosmic alchemy within promises to put your knowledge of geography, parrots, music and the Universe to the test. If you get 50 out of 50, you get to guest edit the next season of TOPIA. Good luck!