What The If?

What if teaching robots to play badminton was the beginning of the end? Scientists at ETH Zurich have successfully trained four-legged robots with mechanical arms to track shuttlecocks, navigate courts, and execute precise strikes against human players. But once these robots master the art of intercepting flying objects, what's next? Watch civilization unravel as badminton-playing robots evolve from harmless sporting partners to grenade-deflecting military units, eventually leading to wandering herds of sentient apartment buildings roaming the Great Plains while playing eternal badminton matches. From robotic sous chefs who season your cast iron wrong to buildings having midlife crises after the humans disappear, discover why teaching robots sports coordination might be humanity's final folly. Bonus: learn why nobody can fold a fitted sheet except Philip. Based on "Learning coordinated badminton skills for legged manipulators" by Yuntao Ma, Andrei Cramariuc, Farbod Farshidian, and Marco Hutter, published in Science Robotics on 28 May 2025 at https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adu3922 --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

We're off this week for the Memorial Day Holiday in the US so we present here one of our most popular episodes, a classic IF from August 13, 2021 with the incomparable marine biologist from Australia, Dr. Vanessa Pirotta. Take a deep breath and enjoy this deep dive! ---- WHALES spend their entire lives inside a medium, water, in which they can't actually breathe. So throughout the day, and the night, they have to swim to the surface to take a breath of that sweet, sweet ocean air… or they die! We humans, and other land lubber mammals like us, are spoiled, just inhale, anytime you want, and… problem solved. But — What The IF humans had to breathe by dunking our head in water? The amazing Dr. Vanessa Pirotta joins us from Sydney, Australia to take us into the wet and wild thought experiment, so we can learn real science! Imagine living the life of the whale, turned on it's head. What world would we have built if our bodies worked this way? It's like what if we emerged from the oceans, as we believe life did, but never adapted to breathing outside the water like we used to. Humans with gills? Are we wearing helmets on our head that are filled with water? Do we fill our *buildings* with water? Water the IF! — Dr. Pirotta is a wildlife scientist and a gifted science communicator. Her zoological background has taken her around the world for wildlife research. Vanessa is also a passionate and experienced science communicator who loves making science accessible. Her keen interests cover topics of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, also known as STEAM. Vanessa has represented Australia internationally as the national winner of a world-renowned science communication competition known as FameLab, placing second in the world. Vanessa's efforts to communicate science has also seen her become a TEDx speaker, speak at the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization and recognized as one of the top 100 Women of Influence judged by the Australian Financial Review. Learn more about Vanessa! Homepage: https://www.vanessapirotta.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/VanessaPirotta Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drvanessapirotta/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrVanessaPirotta YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfIe3r09XA8BviNbVMtag2Q --- Like the show? Share your love for the IF by dropping a review on whatever podcast app you're enjoying, including Apple Podcasts! itunes.apple.com/podcast/id1250517051?mt=2&ls=1 Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com and never miss an episode! Keep On IFFin', Philip & Matt

What if gene editing treatments become commonplace? Explore a world where a single DNA letter gets fixed with just three little shots, transforming deadly genetic disorders into manageable conditions. Babies born unable to clear toxic ammonia from their bodies now thrive after a simple genetic correction. Future treatments could target everything from sickle cell anemia to cystic fibrosis with similar precision. Imagine celebrating your bar mitzvah with a shot that cures your ancestral lactose intolerance, or future space travelers editing their genes for better bone density in zero-G. Just one microscopic change – like fixing a computer program's typo – can mean the difference between a short, painful existence and a normal, healthy life. Based on "Baby is Healed with World's First Personalized Gene Editing Treatment" by Gina Colada, published in the New York Times on May 16, 2025. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/15/health/gene-editing-personalized-rare-disorders.html?unlocked_article_code=1.Hk8.SpxN.mMIhoAeQ8hXv&smid=url-share—— Philip will be holding a 90-minute virtual workshop "Introduction to AI for Creative People" with Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area on May 17th. Anyone can join, register at: https://womeninfilmsanfranciscobayarea.wildapricot.org/event-6160839 —— Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don't miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Check out Gaby's new sci-fi short story in The Map Of Lost Places!  https://www.apexbookcompany.com/products/the-map-of-lost-placesKeep On IFFin',Philip, Matt & Gaby

What if you could build up a resistance to absolutely anything through repeated exposure? Inspired by the real-life story of Tim Friede, who injected himself with increasing doses of snake venom until he developed immunity, this episode explores a world where humans can become resistant to gravity, car crashes, or even anvils to the head. From specialized training centers at the mall that progressively drop heavier objects on your skull to high school gym classes where kids graduate from Barbie cars to full-sized vehicles, discover how society would transform if human biology could adapt to literally anything. We explore how careers would change - plumbers resistant to bad smells, electricians handling live wires with bare hands - and how regional human subspecies might emerge based on local hazards. Would the Upper East Side elite compete to make their babies anvil-proof before their first birthday? In this world, your skull thickness might become your most valuable credential, and Halloween costumes would reflect our vastly more diverse physical appearances. Based on "Universal Anti-Venom May Grow Out of a Man Who Let Snakes Bite Him 200 Times" by The New York Times, May 2, 2025 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/02/health/snakes-universal-antivenom-tim-friede.html?unlocked_article_code=1.F08.AC2O.wGyVMwaME67R&smid=url-share Philip will be holding a 90-minute virtual workshop "Introduction to AI for Creative People" with Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area on May 17th. Anyone can join, register at: https://womeninfilmsanfranciscobayarea.wildapricot.org/event-6160839 --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don't miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Check out Gaby's new sci-fi short story in The Map Of Lost Places!  https://www.apexbookcompany.com/products/the-map-of-lost-placesKeep On IFFin',Philip, Matt & Gaby

What if humans and all mammals hatched from eggs? This episode explores a world where expectant parents carry decorated eggs to work, conference tables have special egg holders, and the Upper East Side boasts expensive hatcheries playing Mozart to developing offspring. From the marketing potential of personalized egg covers to the social stigmas of different egg-carrying methods, discover how our relationship with reproduction and parenting would transform. Would human eggs be leathery like reptiles or hard like birds? How would we adapt our homes, workplaces, and social structures for portable babies-to-be? And would egg-swapping become the new worry for anxious parents? This thought-provoking scenario was submitted by listener Anne from Queens, New York. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Experience outer space without leaving Earth's atmosphere! Join planetary geologist and space lifestyle coach Kirby Runyon as he guides us through cosmic destinations on our own planet. From New Mexico's lava flows that mirror the Moon's dark volcanic plains to Northern Arizona's Meteor Crater (where three downtown Philadelphias could fit in the bottom), discover Earth's surprising cosmic connections. Float weightlessly in a modified Boeing 727 as it performs "parabolic arcs" giving you 20 seconds of perfect freedom where your face muscles relax and your arms float zombie-like in front of you. Or visit steam explosion craters in Southern California that reveal what early Mars looked like billions of years ago. The universe is more accessible than you think - you just need to know where to look. Learn more at https://planex.space/ and use promo code KirbyPlanEX to save 5% on Zero-G flights at https://gozeroG.com/ --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Embark on a mind-bending thought experiment as our intrepid explorers dive deep into the annals of history, imagining how early humans might have unraveled the mysteries of solar eclipses. From cave paintings to mythical tales of celestial dragons, join the journey as Throg and his tribe attempt to make sense of the sun's sudden disappearance. Joins us as we ponder the birth of astronomy and the evolution of scientific thinking. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if humans never stood upright and remained quadrupeds? Our world would transform into a society where everything is built low to the ground. Imagine shopping carts you push with your face, stadiums with no chairs where everyone sits like animals, and the social awkwardness of having your posterior constantly on display. The loss of our hands would dramatically impact agriculture, cooking, and sports—though we'd excel at truffle hunting and finding loose change. Discover why our spines might actually thank us for going horizontal, how backpacks would become "saddlebags," and why having mouth-operated tools might make friendship more necessary than ever. This thought-provoking "what if" scenario was suggested by listener Anne Fizzard from Queens, New York. --- Check out Gaby's new sci-fi short story in The Map Of Lost Places!  https://www.apexbookcompany.com/products/the-map-of-lost-places

What if the fundamental forces of nature could change with time? Step into a universe where gravity might send you floating to the ceiling one morning, your coffee maker stops working as electricity changes its rules, and your very atoms could suddenly decide to explode. From your nervous system running on unpredictable electrical currents to the strong nuclear force taking a day off, discover how even tiny fluctuations in these cosmic constants would transform daily life into surreal chaos. Turns out the orderliness of our universe might be more miraculous than we realized - change any force by one part in a billion, and we wouldn't be here complaining about it. Based on "More Than a Hint' That Dark Energy Isn't What Astronomers Thought" by Katrina Miller and Dennis Overbye, published in The New York Times on March 19, 2025. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/19/science/space/astronomer-desi-dark-energy.html?smid=url-share&unlocked_article_code=1.-E4.npTp.cMswMP6FDuKn --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if filmmakers took their cameras to space? Prepare for a world of zero-G cinematography! From weather-sealed cameras designed to handle unexpected astronaut vomit to the perpetual hum of life-support systems ruining your audio, documentary filmmaking in orbit presents unique challenges. Discover why the International Space Station's lighting is "just awful," how playing a guitar in microgravity sends you spinning in unexpected directions, and why the first task in every Mars simulation is fixing the eternally broken toilet. Explore how future space workers will need specialized trade skills—from plumbers to welders—as humanity expands beyond Earth. This thought-provoking "what if" scenario features insights from documentary filmmaker Sam Burbank and Explore Mars CEO Chris Carberry. —— Chris Carberry is the CEO and co-founder of Explore Mars, Inc. (Explore Mars), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit space advocacy organization that was created to advance the goal of sending humans to Mars by the mid-2030s. Carberry is a well-respected expert and influential director of strategic alliances in the space community as well as with non-traditional organizations. Carberry has presented oral (and written) testimony to both the United States Senate as well as the United States House of Representatives and has been active in all levels of policy engagement with both the Executive and Legislative branches of government. In recent years, he has overseen Explore Mars' annual Humans to Mars Summit, the largest annual conference focused on sending humans to Mars. He has also spearheaded dozens of programs including the Mars Innovation Forum, the annual Community Workshops for the Achievability and Sustainability of Human Exploration of Mars series, the AR/VR and Space workshop series, the ISS and Mars Conference in Washington, D.C. and in Strasbourg, France, and the Women and Mars Conference in Washington, D.C. He has also conducted programs overseas, in such countries as the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Carberry is also the creator, and one of the senior editors, of the annual publication known as the Humans to Mars Report that was highlighted in the NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2017. In 2013, Carberry was awarded a NASA Group Achievement award. Carberry is the author of the 2019 book, Alcohol in Space: Past, Present and Future, and the upcoming book, The Music of Space (to be released in 2022). Both volumes are being adapted into documentary films.Learn more about Chris at https://exploremars.orgCheck out his books at https://www.amazon.com/stores/Chris-Carberry/author/B0CZWN4JNF?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1743558561&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Watch his film at https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-Space-Movie-Sam-Burbank/dp/B0DJQZGLG2 —— Sam Burbank is a science-writer and science-documentary filmmaker. Mr. Burbank has worked with PBS, Discovery Channel, and has produced and written two dozen programs for the National Geographic, ranging from renewable energy to the X-Prize. Sam studied creative writing at San Francisco State University, and is a long time member of AAAS. He has spent three summers on Devon Island, near the magnetic north pole, and was a member of the founding crew of the Mars Society FMARS station in 2001. In 2002 he joined a crew at the MDRS station for the one-of-a-kind ICoMP experiment Sam loves snowboarding, journal writing, and dancing a fast 1930's swing step, the Balboa. In 1995, he and wife Linda spent their honeymoon riding a motorcycle to the arctic circle. Some notable quotes about Mr. Burbank include the following: "Sam Burbank is elevating the video-journal to an art genre." Kim Stanley Robinson, author Antarctica, Red Mars. "Sam is a true artist, who makes visible to the eye what before could only be seen by the mind." Robert Zubrin, author The Case for Mars, Entering Space. Learn more about Sam at https://www.samburbank.com/

Note from Philip: Matt and Gaby are both on assignment this week, so we proudly present an encore of one of our most popular episodes ever. ——— We welcome our newest Patreon supporter, Martin from Frankfurt, Germany! Inspired by the Paris Olympics which open today, we imagine Olympic events spread across the solar system in the year 3024! High jumps on the Moon, luge races on asteroids, and synchronized swimming in Titan's methane lakes. Athletes train in centrifuges to prepare for different gravities, while spectators watch solar sail races near the Sun. The episode explores the physics of sports in various planetary conditions, from the dense atmosphere of Jupiter to the microgravity of space stations. Learn about the challenges of organizing interplanetary competitions and the potential for new sports unique to each celestial body. --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don't miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin',Philip, Matt & Gaby

In a world where no creature ever evolved wings, island ecosystems would be barren wastelands, Darwin might never have filled his bathtub with broccoli, and wars might be less explosive due to the absence of bird guano for making gunpowder. Explore an Earth where dragonflies never buzzed, butterflies never fluttered, and humans might have focused exclusively on land speed instead of aerospace. From the philosophical implications of never seeing flight in action to the surprisingly massive ecological importance of flying poop-dispersers, this episode dives into the cascading consequences of a planet permanently grounded. This thought-provoking "what if" scenario was suggested by listener Steve Scalici. Find out more about how to march in support of American science by visiting https://standupforscience2025.org --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

We're sharing our bonus show this week that is usually available only to our Patreon supporters. This week's Beyond the IF continues our sobering discussion about the rapidly deteriorating state of science funding in America. The conversation took us deeper into the real-world impacts we're already seeing - from major universities canceling all graduate admissions to a student who landed a Park Service job only to have it eliminated before she could even start. These aren't hypothetical scenarios anymore; they're happening to real people right now. We also discussed the historical precedents for what happens when countries drive out their scientific talent. From Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union's collapse, the pattern is disturbingly familiar - and often ends with those experts enriching other nations instead. For those of you wondering what you can do, we shared information about the Stand Up for Science event on March 7th and other ways to make your voice heard. Your support is more important than ever as we navigate these challenging times. If you're one of our Patreon members, we thank you for being part of this community and allowing us to have these critical conversations that many aren't willing to have. If you're not a member yet, go to https://patreon.com/whattheif to find out what it's all about. Keep on iffin', Philip, Gaby & Matt

The current US Administration's sudden gutting of science funding is creating an unprecedented crisis. Scientists are waking up to find themselves unemployed, as anonymous officials pull the plug on research programs with no warning or debate. This episode examines the immediate fallout as laboratory freezers shut down, irreplaceable samples are lost, and researchers scramble to preserve years of work. What comes next could be devastating - a potential mass exodus of scientific talent. If funding isn't restored, we face an imminent brain drain as researchers seek opportunities elsewhere, mirroring historical parallels from Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union's collapse. Major universities have already canceled graduate admissions, threatening to eliminate an entire generation of future scientists. The consequences of these actions extend far beyond academia - agricultural failures, increased disease outbreaks, and environmental deterioration await a society that abandons its scientific foundations. We finish with concrete ways you can take action, from contacting your representatives to joining organized protests like the upcoming Stand Up for Science event on March 7th. We also invite you to share your own ideas and strategies for stemming this tide - whether you're in the US or watching from abroad, your voice and solutions matter in this critical moment.

Picture a world where meteor showers aren't just annual events - they're a constant barrage of cosmic debris raining down from above. From sonic booms that make sleep impossible to the challenges of titanium umbrella manufacturing, explore how humanity might cope with endless celestial bombardment. Discover why the moon's pockmarked surface could become Earth's new normal, why your local cathedral might be built from meteorite fragments, and how our atmosphere would transform into a perpetual blanket of dust that could make plants nostalgic for sunlight. Based on ideas sparked by Dr. Matthew Stanley's upcoming book on the history of asteroid impact awareness. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Imagine a world where garbage grows faster than we can handle it. From towering mountains of trash transforming Central Park into a burn pit, to fashionable gas masks becoming the next big trend, to super-sized Pizza Rats dragging entire pies down subway stairs - Matt touches on what happens when our waste production spirals out of control. Discover the fascinating science behind Norway's garbage-to-energy programs, learn why your building's trash chute might be too small for modern waste, and find out how launching garbage into space could create daily meteor showers. Whether we end up building higher and higher on top of our refuse or turning landfills into beautiful parks, one thing's certain: the future is trashy. Here are links to the article that inspired today's “If,” and also links to the work of photographer Jade Doskow, the official photographer of the Fresh Kills transformation project, turning the old landfill into a vast wooded parkland in New York City. - NYTimes - "A Century of Human Detritus, Visualized" (Dennis Overbye) - The podcast encourages checking out a New York Times article titled "A Century of Human Detritus, Visualized," written by Dennis Overbye and published December 27, 2024. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/27/science/biomass-garbage-construction.html?unlocked_article_code=1.v04.UxBK.oaS6T2HeFINh&smid=url-share - Jade Doskow's Official Website - The hosts direct listeners to Jade Doskow's official photography website, which showcases her work. https://jadedoskowphotography.com/ - Jade Doskow at Freshkills Park - The official Freshkills Park page about Jade's role as Photographer-in-Residence. It features her ongoing project documenting the transformation of the former landfill into a park. https://freshkillspark.org/os-art/jadedoskow - "Jade Doskow: Photographer of Lost Utopias" Documentary - A short documentary by filmmaker Philip Shane following Jade's decade-long project photographing World's Fair sites. https://www.philipshane.com/lost-utopias - "Extra Terrestrial" on Urban Omnibus - An article written by Jade Doskow (Nov 2022) about the evolving landscape of Freshkills, recommended for further reading. It offers insight into her approach and findings as the site's photographer-in-residence. https://urbanomnibus.net/2022/11/extra-terrestrial/ --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if humans only needed to poop twice a year? Listener Randy Woods sent in this fascinating question that explores everything from subway systems suddenly smelling fresher to plumbers planning career changes in a world where human waste becomes a rare event. Dive into the fascinating science of gut microbiomes, learn why having "zero waste" might wreak havoc on Earth's ecosystems, and discover why some scientists think the total elimination of poop could cause an evolutionary crisis. Through engineered gut bacteria or artificially created super-digestible food, this episode examines how our bodies would need to change to achieve this drastically different biological reality. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if humans could only move eight inches in 24 hours? After watching mushroom corals take a full day to scoot that far, we explore life at an even slower pace than sloths. Trade sprinting after prey for the exciting new sport of not moving at all! Develop a metabolism so slow you'll make a sloth look hyperactive, grow some stylish moss camouflage, and discover why traveling one foot becomes the adventure of a lifetime. Turns out the slow life comes with some surprising survival strategies - just don't expect to chase down your dinner anymore. Based on "These Corals Are Made for Walking" by Jason Bittel, published in The New York Times on Jan. 22, 2025 (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/22/science/walking-coral.html?smid=url-share). --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Here's our Bonus show, "Beyond The IF" which we record each week for our Patreon supporters. We're sharing it here so you can get a taste of what it's like. If you're not a Patreon supporter, you can learn more about the benefits available to all our wonderful members at patreon.com/whattheif. We continued the show by talking about the fascinating world of ants—their wars, their teamwork, and how they recognize each other using scent. These tiny creatures gave us plenty to think about. Gaby also shared a brief take on how misunderstandings of basic science, like pasteurization, can lead to unnecessary fear. Her thoughts on the need for tackling misinformation and protecting public health were insightful. Thanks for listening, and keep on Iffin'.

What if we could harness the superior problem-solving abilities of ants? After scientists discovered that ants outperform humans at maneuvering objects through mazes (even when the humans can see but aren't allowed to talk or gesture), we imagine a world where humans learn to control these master cooperators. From ant armies forming living conveyor belts to deliver mail, to using chemical trails to guide them in cleaning houses, explore what happens when humans try to domesticate insects for manual labor. Just don't get too squeamish when you learn it takes 150 million ants to move your couch! Based on "Ants best humans at test of collective intelligence" by Christie Wilcox, published in Science.org on December 30, 2024 (https://www.science.org/content/article/ants-best-humans-test-collective-intelligence). --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if toxic chemicals weren't toxic anymore? Take a magical tour through a world where mercury becomes the ultimate playground material for ice skating, lead paint makes a dazzling comeback in interior design, and DDT returns as humanity's mosquito-fighting champion. Inspired by Larry Woods' whimsical question, this episode dives into the surprising history of mercury in hat-making (spoiler: this explains why the Mad Hatter was actually mad), Newton's ill-advised alchemical adventures with toxic metals, and the fascinating science of why you can float an anvil on mercury but can't actually swim in it. From Elizabethan lead-based makeup to mercury-filled thermometers in unfortunate dogs, discover the wild world of substances that used to kill us but now just want to be friends. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Your houseplants might be screaming right now, but you'd never know it (unless you're a moth). Scientists discovered that stressed and dehydrated plants emit ultrasonic clicks that moths can hear and use to choose where to lay their eggs - like tiny vegetative Yelp reviews. But what if humans could also tune into this botanical broadcasting network? From coffee shops filled with complaining houseplants to ultrasonic opera singers hitting notes that would make dogs cover their ears, explore a world where humans can hear the full spectrum of sound. And yes, your dying Christmas tree is probably making more noise than your neighbor's teenage garage band. Based on the article "When They Hear Plants Crying, Moths Make a Decision" by Gennaro Tomma, from the New York Times Science section at https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/06/science/moths-hearing-plant-sounds.html --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What happens after humans? According to fascinating research from Oxford University, octopi might be perfectly positioned to become Earth's next civilization builders. These eight-armed innovators could evolve over millions of years into six-foot-tall underwater architects, developing amazing technologies like saltwater-hardened concrete and creating Venice-style coastal cities. Picture a future where octopi run underwater factories and construct amphibious settlements along what used to be Miami's coastline! Join Philip and Gaby as they explore this mind-bending possibility and imagine what an octopus civilization might look like. Based on the article "If Humans Die Out, Octopuses Already Have the Chops to Build the Next Civilization, Scientist Claims" by Sarah Wells in Popular Mechanics on Dec 13, 2024 at https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/animals/a63184424/octopus-civilization/ --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Ever wonder what would happen if life got flipped in a molecular mirror? In this episode, we explore the fascinating possibility of creating mirror-image life forms. Picture bacteria with every molecule backwards - like they've been pulled through the looking glass! Our immune systems would be totally confused, like trying to read a book reflected in a spoon. These backwards bugs would need their own special backwards food, and might create their own unique mirror-world ecosystem alongside our regular one. From double-helix DNA that spirals the wrong way to proteins that do everything in reverse, discover the weird and wonderful world of molecular mirror images and how they could create a second tree of life right here on Earth. Based on the New York Times article "A Second Tree of Life Could Wreak Havoc, Scientists Warn" by Carl Zimmer (December 12, 2024) https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/12/science/mirror-life-microbes-research.html?unlocked_article_code=1.iE4.DJDO.CQlOrQ-08aNQ&smid=url-share --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Google's DeepMind has shattered a long-standing barrier in weather forecasting, achieving reliable 15-day predictions that were previously thought impossible due to chaos theory. Traditional fortune tellers are nervously updating their résumés as AI tackles the age-old question: if we can predict the weather two weeks out, what else can we predict? From knowing which baseball team will win before the first pitch to figuring out if you'll actually remember your briefcase tomorrow morning, explore how increasingly accurate predictions could reshape our understanding of choice, destiny, and whether you really had any choice about reading this description at all. Based on "Google Introduces A.I. Agent That Aces 15-Day Weather Forecasts" by William J. Broad, The New York Times, December 4, 2024. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/04/science/google-ai-weather-forecast.html --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What the if coffee was 11 times more powerful? Explore a world where cities install coffee pipeline infrastructure, coffee fountains replace water fountains, and everyone runs instead of walks. Watch society transform as coffee cartels become global powers, precision work becomes impossible, and sports games turn into high-speed chaos. From thimble-sized coffee portions to the rise of basement caffeine synthesizers, discover how civilization adapts when every cup of coffee packs the punch of eleven. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Here's our Bonus show, "Beyond The IF" which we record each week for our Patreon supporters. I'm sharing it here so you can get a taste of what it's like. If you're not a Patreon supporter, you can learn more about the benefits available to all our wonderful members at patreon.com/whattheif. On this week's bonus after-party show... What starts with toilet water and ends with dissolving takeout containers? We began with Singapore's recycled water beer at COP29 and found ourselves exploring everything from Massachusetts' fancy locking compost bins to New York's experimental waste programs. The conversation flowed through the surprisingly dramatic history of why we ditched glass for plastic (spoiler: it wasn't for the planet), and landed us in the world of disappearing food containers and compostable bags that actually break down instead of sticking around for a few centuries. We thank all our Patreons for supporting our weekly adventures through science, even when they start in unusual places. Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with good food, warm company, and minimal food waste. May your compost bins be full and your recycling sorted correctly! Cheers, Philip

What happens when your toilet water gets a career change and becomes a craft beer? At COP29 in Azerbaijan, Singapore's showing off exactly that with their hoppy pilsner made from recycled wastewater. Discover the fascinating world of water reclamation where sewage gets a spectacular makeover through advanced treatment systems. Learn how treatment plants transform waste into pure water through an incredible process involving bacterial helpers, sand filters, and high-tech purification. From delegates sipping recycled brew to a future where every drop of water might get a second chance, explore what our beverage scene could look like when we push sustainability to new limits. Today's episode is inspired by the article "This Beer Is Made From Sewage. And at the Climate Summit, That's OK" by Rebecca F. Elliott in The New York Times at https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/22/climate/cop29-beer-toilet-water.html —- Hear Matt's upcoming lecture: On November 25, 2024 he will be doing a virtual lecture on "Historical Solar Eclipse Observations". Tune in! https://factorvalue.org/2024/11/16/eclipse/ --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Ready to meet your friendly neighborhood nuclear reactor? Join us for a wild exploration of what could happen if mini atomic power plants popped up on every block! We'll peek into a future where spent fuel rods might be stored in the local "parking lot," and your next-door neighbor could be a nuclear engineer. Discover the surprising possibilities (and peculiar problems) of bringing nuclear power into suburbia, why those iconic cooling towers might become as common as coffee shops, and what it would really mean to have atomic energy right around the corner. This week's episode is inspired by the New York Times article "U.S. Bets on Small Nuclear Reactors to Help Fix a Huge Climate Problem" by Brad Plumer on Nov. 12, 2023. Read it here: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/11/12/climate/nuclear-reactors-clean-energy.html?smid=url-share Hear Matt's upcoming lecture: On November 25, 2024 he will be doing a virtual lecture on "Historical Solar Eclipse Observations". Tune in! https://factorvalue.org/2024/11/16/eclipse/ --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Would you merge with someone if you could? When scientists discovered comb jellies spontaneously fusing into single organisms, it opened up wild possibilities for human fusion powers. Picture medieval knights sporting extra arms from fusion transplants, towering academic hive minds preserving centuries of knowledge, and partners literally sharing brain space to understand each other's fields. From coordinated jellyfish movements to the cultural implications of a fusion-powered society, we explore what happens when biology meets Dark Souls. Episode inspired by Carl Zimmer's New York Times article "When Two Sea Aliens Become One" (https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/07/science/comb-jellies-fusing-bodies.html?smid=url-share). --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Based on new research reported by Matt Williams in Universe Today, an Earth-like planet orbiting a white dwarf star 4,000 light years away might offer a preview of our own solar system's distant future. Journey through the dramatic transformation as our Sun expands into a massive red giant, consuming Mercury and Venus before shedding its outer layers and shrinking to a tiny white dwarf. Explore how Earth might survive this cosmic evolution, migrating to a more distant orbit in a permanently frozen state where ice badgers could theoretically evolve to thrive in the dim light of our shrunken star. Read the article in Universe Today: https://www.universetoday.com/168746/an-earth-like-planet-around-a-dead-sun-provides-some-reassurance-about-the-future-of-earth/#more-168746 --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Scientists discover that playing white noise can make beneficial fungi grow seven times faster than usual. This breakthrough could help restore damaged forests by using sound to promote fungal growth that supports tree health. Explore how fungi act as nature's traders, exchanging nutrients with trees through complex underground networks. Learn about the potential applications, from healing ecosystems to growing prized black truffles, and imagine a future where music helps plants thrive and highway noise creates blooming roadside gardens. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

We're excited to share a special treat with all our listeners - a "Beyond the IF" segment usually available only to our Patreon supporters! This bonus episode extends our fascinating conversation with Sharrona Pearl, author of "Do I Know You: From Face Blindness to Super Recognition." In this deeper exploration, we shift our focus to the opposite end of the face recognition spectrum - super recognizers. These individuals possess an extraordinary ability to remember and identify faces. But is this superpower all it's cracked up to be? We explore the daily challenges faced by super recognizers, from accidentally creeping people out to the art of pretending not to recognize everyone. Learn about the practical applications of this ability, including Scotland Yard's "super recognizer squad," and ponder the potential downsides that researchers have yet to explore. This glimpse into our "Beyond the IF" content showcases the kind of in-depth, mind-bending discussions our Patreon supporters enjoy regularly. If you've enjoyed this bonus content, consider becoming a Patreon supporter at https://patreon.com/whattheif. Your support fuels our exploration of these fascinating "what ifs" and beyond, allowing us to dive deeper into the extraordinary. Join our community of curious minds and get access to exclusive content like this in every episode!

Join us as we welcome special guest Sharrona Pearl, author of "Do I Know You: From Face Blindness to Super Recognition" from Johns Hopkins Press. What if everyone suddenly woke up face blind? Together with Sharrona, we explore the fascinating world of face recognition and its absence, delving into the challenges and unexpected benefits of living in a society where no one can recognize faces. From diverse friend groups to biometric surveillance, discover how our world might adapt. Explore the coping mechanisms developed by those with face blindness and ponder how these strategies might become universal in a face-blind world. Embark on a thought-provoking journey through the implications of losing facial recognition abilities and their impact on our daily lives and society at large. Buy Sharrona's book: Via Independent Bookstores: https://bookshop.org/p/books/do-i-know-you-from-face-blindness-to-super-recognition-sharrona-pearl/19780511?ean=9781421447537 Via Hopkins Press: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12700/do-i-know-you Via Amazon: https://a.co/d/9o4azvU

Strap in for a frosty adventure as we dive into the Europa Clipper mission, set to blast off towards Jupiter's enigmatic ice moon. Imagine an alien world with an ocean containing twice the water of all Earth's seas, hidden beneath a 12-mile thick ice cube! We'll crack open the mysteries of Europa's crimson streaks, ponder the possibility of glow-in-the-dark sea monsters, and unravel how scientists use fancy metal detectors to peek inside planets. Join us as we speculate about potential alien sushi bars and wonder if Europa's ocean creatures might hold the key to intergalactic medicine. Get ready for a chilly space odyssey that'll have you seeing Jupiter's moons in a whole new light! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Inspired by the recent news of Earth's temporary mini-moon 2024 PT5, this episode explores a universe where such celestial visitors become commonplace. What if Earth regularly captured bus-sized asteroids as mini-moons? From space hippie lifestyles to asteroid time-shares, discover how these cosmic dance partners could impact astronomy, space travel, and human evolution. Dive into the potential of mini-moons as conveyor belts through the solar system, the challenges of asteroid mining, orbital dynamics, and the birth of nomadic space cultures. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Buckle up for one of our silliest episodes yet! We've really gone off the rails this time as we blast off into the world of space alcohol. What started as a question from our listener Nigel about phosphine on Venus somehow morphed into a cosmic happy hour adventure. Join us as we explore vast clouds of ethanol and methanol floating in the cosmos, brainstorm outrageous ideas for harvesting these interstellar spirits with giant moon-sized fans, and ponder the complexities of operating space-age distilleries. We'll discuss the unique challenges of aging whiskey over light-years and speculate on the bizarre flavors imparted by space dust. This episode is a wild ride through the galaxy's biggest cocktail party, guaranteed to leave you dizzy with laughter and wonder. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if humans were the latest must-have pet for trendy aliens? This episode explores the hilarious and bizarre scenario of extraterrestrial beings snatching us up like puppies from a shelter. From alien vets poking and prodding us for space parasites to the culinary delights of human kibble, we dive into the wacky world of human domestication. Discover the joys of alien fashion shows featuring humans in adorable hats, and the headaches caused by mischievous humans forming underground resistance movements at the local alien graveyard. We even ponder the age-old alien question: "Do you think my human understands me when I talk to it in Zorblaxian?" This thought-provoking "what if" scenario was suggested by listener Dan Floyd. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Fungal-powered robots are no longer science fiction! Scientists have created robots controlled by fungal mycelia that respond to light stimulation. These fungus-bots could revolutionize how we think about artificial intelligence and robotics. But what if our entire society became dependent on fungal-controlled machines? Explore a future where mushrooms pilot mechs, mycelia networks control city infrastructure, and humans must feed their fungal overlords to keep society running. Will this lead to eco-friendly harmony or a mycelial machine uprising? --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Imagine a world where giant, bus-sized nematodes roam the streets, carrying diseases from city to city! In this mind-bending episode, we explore the consequences of scaling up microscopic worms to Dune-like proportions. How would humanity adapt to these massive, translucent creatures? We dive into the science of nematodes, discuss potential worm-washing stations, and even contemplate the philosophy of these 302-neuron behemoths. From worm cowboys to hamster-ball daredevils, this episode will change how you think about the hidden world beneath our feet. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

A speedy little star is racing through the Milky Way at a million miles per hour, fast enough to potentially escape our galaxy. This hypervelocity object, discovered by an amateur astronomer, could be a low-mass star or a brown dwarf. We explore the consequences of such a stellar speedster entering our solar system, from gravitational disruptions to the possibility of Earth being captured and taken along for the ride. Join us as we calculate travel times across the galaxy, ponder life on a planet orbiting a rogue star, and imagine astronomy in a nearly starless sky! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Imagine a world where gravity fluctuates like the weather, causing chaos in daily life. This episode explores the wild consequences of variable gravity, from spaghettification dangers to the need for gravity forecasts. Discover how changing G-forces would affect everything from air travel to Olympic sports, and ponder the evolutionary adaptations needed to survive in such a world. This mind-bending concept, suggested by listener Joe, pushes the boundaries of physics and imagination. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

What if the Earth started expanding? This episode explores the wild consequences of a constantly growing planet. From elastic roads and stretchy buildings to low-orbit volleyball games and manipults for transportation, discover how life would adapt to an ever-expanding Earth. Learn about the effects on gravity, atmosphere, and infrastructure as the planet grows. Dive into the physics of orbital mechanics at ground level and ponder the fate of our expanding world billions of years into the future. From weekly city regatherings to the challenges of maintaining fiber optic cables, uncover the bizarre realities of life on a planet that won't stop growing. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Buckle up for a mind-bending journey into a world where memories vanish faster than you can say "What did I just...?" What if our brains could only hold onto thoughts for a measly 30 seconds? Would cavemen become the ultimate goldfish, forgetting they're running from saber-toothed tigers mid-sprint? Could humanity evolve into a society of Post-it note addicts, desperately scribbling reminders to breathe? Explore the hilarious and horrifying implications of life with short-term memory, from accidental daily spouse-swapping to the potential rise of a Mario Kart-based civilization. Discover how video games might become our cognitive saviors, and ponder whether we'd all turn into walking, talking hard drives just to remember our own names. It's a forgetful fiesta that'll leave you questioning reality - if you can remember it long enough! --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

We welcome our newest Patreon supporter, Martin from Frankfurt, Germany! Inspired by the Paris Olympics which open today, we imagine Olympic events spread across the solar system in the year 3024! High jumps on the Moon, luge races on asteroids, and synchronized swimming in Titan's methane lakes. Athletes train in centrifuges to prepare for different gravities, while spectators watch solar sail races near the Sun. The episode explores the physics of sports in various planetary conditions, from the dense atmosphere of Jupiter to the microgravity of space stations. Learn about the challenges of organizing interplanetary competitions and the potential for new sports unique to each celestial body. --- Check out our membership rewards! Visit us at Patreon.com/Whattheif Got an IF of your own? Want to have us consider your idea for a show topic? Send YOUR IF to us! Email us at feedback@whattheif.com and let us know what's in your imagination. No idea is too small, or too big! Don't miss an episode! Subscribe at WhatTheIF.com Keep On IFFin', Philip, Matt & Gaby

Dive into the intriguing world of microbial terraforming on Planet Hendrix! This episode explores how scientists use unique microbes to transform barren extraterrestrial landscapes into potentially habitable environments. Discover the fascinating processes behind microbial mining, mineral creation, and atmosphere alteration, and how these tiny organisms could pave the way for future human colonization. Learn about the Great Oxidation Event and its Earthly impacts, and imagine the possibilities when humanity harnesses these microbial powers on other planets. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Step into a wild world where ancient Greek philosophers are YouTube sensations! Picture Aristotle running multiple channels, Socrates hosting heated philosophical debates, and Odysseus vlogging his epic journey home. We dive into the hilarious and thought-provoking scenarios of Greek legends navigating the digital age. What if Alexander the Great livestreamed his conquests? Could Diogenes become the ultimate internet troll? Join us as we explore how YouTube's algorithm might shake up the spread of ideas in ancient Greece. Get ready for a wild ride through an alternate history where togas meet technology!

Explore a world where life is based on silicon instead of carbon, swimming in sulfuric acid oceans and breathing in clouds of acid rain. Imagine transparent armadillo-like creatures with glass bones, communicating through resonant frequencies. Ponder the possibilities of silicon-based trees with blue interiors and the challenges of interspecies cohabitation. This episode delves into the chemistry, biology, and potential evolution of silicon-based life forms, from microscopic bacteria to intelligent civilizations. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

Inspired by a fascinating article about why moths are lured to lights at night, this mind-bending episode explores a wild scenario - what if humans navigated the world like moths, perpetually drawn to the scent of pizza? Delve into the intricacies of moth navigation, ant death spirals, and how our cities and societies might be organized around an insatiable pizza obsession. From pizza-oriented city grids designed to capture savory scents to pharaohs using pizza to construct pyramids, the hilarious thought experiment takes you on a journey that will change how you see pepperoni forever. --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention

In this mind-blowing episode, we explore how one man's quest to create artificial fertilizer transformed the trajectory of human history. Inspired by listener Martin from Frankfurt, we dive into the story of Fritz Haber, whose discovery of the Haber-Bosch process for synthesizing ammonia not only revolutionized agriculture and saved billions from starvation but also fueled the rise of chemical weapons in World War I. From explosive bat guano to the delicate balance of ding-dongs and Twinkies, we unravel the complex web connecting fertilizer, food production, and the very bombs that shaped the 20th century. Brace yourself for a wild ride through the unintended consequences of scientific breakthroughs! —

Here's Martin's email to us which includes lots more information and links to learn more about his intriguing IF! From: Martin Subject: A world without NH3 (a What The If idea) I had another idea for a potential IF, or - to give credit where credit is due - my colleague Thomas has it. He read that BASF in Germany has sold an NH3 (ammonia) plant in Ludwigshafen (their main production site) after having produced NH3 there since 1913 It was the first industrial plant that realized the -then- completely new Haber-Bosch process. So Thomas asked: what (the if) would a world without NH3 look like? Then we started discussing :-) It's sort of chemist's lore that Haber and Bosch tested many, many catalysts before they found a good one to combine N2 and H2 to NH3. Some sources put the number of tested catalyst formulations to as many as 2500 (https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/haber-bosch-process#:~:text=In%20order%20to%20find%20a,Germany%2C%20now%20part%20of%20Ludwigshafen). What if they lost interest after test #1000 (and never found the iron-based catalyst that was ultimately the one)? Probably this (hypothetical) failed attempt on large scale would deter other groups of scientists at that time to even start their own catalyst developments? Anyhow, let's assume there has never been an industrial NH3 synthesis process in our "What the If" world. It's quite obvious that agriculture would have been very different. Our World in Data has the key answer here: https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/world-population-with-and-without-fertilizer — without ammonia as fertilizer we would be able to feed max 4 bn people (instead 8). So many more famines? Or slower population growth? Certainly a different diet, less feed for animals, and more plants that can fixate N2 from the atmosphere. Our World in Data has a little fun with that: (https://ourworldindata.org/how-many-people-does-synthetic-fertilizer-feed#could-we-have-achieved-the-same-without-synthetic-nitrogen) more peas and beans (and some others — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Nitrogen-fixing_crops — including lupines — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lupinus#Uses — which leads -of course- directly to one of my favorite Monty Python sketches "Dennis Moore"). Not nice. I wouldn't survive the season, that's for sure (no / less fruits and other vegetables) Side note: I was surprised that per capita for many decades (https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/fertilizer-per-capita?tab=chart&country=OWID_WRL~OWID_EUR~CHN~IND~EGY~NLD~DEU~USA) the Western world had significantly higher values than Africa, India, Egypt. So without NH3 Europe / USA would have suffered more), probably more focus has to be put on bringing food on the table for everyone and less activities in new technologies etc. (basically staying longer at the bottom levels of Maslow's pyramid of needs) And then there is war. NH3 was an important ingredient to make TNT - some folks estimate that TNT has killed 100-150 million people in all wars combined. TNT Is Still With Us | Science | AAAS https://www.science.org/content/blog-post/tnt-still-us
Despite being an older explosive, TNT remains relevant due to its stability and relative safety compared to newer, more volatile alternatives. All the best, Martin

Dive into the bizarre world of anglerfish mating rituals in this wildly entertaining episode! Discover how these deep-sea creatures evolved an unconventional strategy for reproduction in the ocean's dark depths. From males biting and fusing to much larger females, to becoming nothing more than sperm-producing parasites, the strange tale of anglerfish love will leave you amazed and slightly unsettled. Join us as we imagine a human society built on anglerfish rules - where tiny men chase after gigantic women in hopes of clamping on for life. It's a thought-provoking journey filled with humor and scientific intrigue that you won't want to miss! Read the New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/30/science/anglerfish-evolution-sex.html?pvid=kolzEZ0s23v76fE8YxZOhk03&u2g=c&smid=url-share --- Find out more about Gaby's science fiction short story! Here are the links for the anthology. The physical copy can be ordered here : https://www.neonhemlock.com/books/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention The ebook can be ordered here: https://www.neonhemlock.com/ebooks/luminescent-machinations-queer-tales-of-monumental-invention