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It's Okay to Be Smart
Why Useless Knowledge Can Be So Useful
Season 12
Episode 17
Our lizard friend the Gila monster probably has no idea that a chemical in its spit inspired one of the most important medical advancements of the 21st century. But this story is really about something bigger. Something deeper, beneath the surface. About why we do science in the first place. And about what kind of questions are the best ones for scientists to ask.
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9:56
The glow from faster-than-light particles gives us a unique way to explore the universe.
10:40
A mysterious and highly impactful phenomenon that scientists are still learning about.
9:10
Countershading is everywhere, and it may be nature’s most successful form of camouflage.
12:59
Global warming means more air conditioning…causing more warming 🤦. Could new chemistry he
14:49
How does iridescence work? From rainbow bubbles to beautiful birds, bugs, and gemstones.
11:53
Under house arrest in Egypt, one mathematician transformed how we examine the world.
13:10
We explore why embarrassment has lasted through evolution and its function.
13:49
We are in search of the blackest black things on Earth and why.
14:24
Knowing exactly what a “second” is is more complicated than you might think!
13:41
The secret is In order to know WHERE you are, you need to first know WHEN you are.
