The Disappearing Spoon: a science history podcast with Sam Kean cover image

The Screwiest—and Perhaps Most Original—Idea of the 20th Century

The Disappearing Spoon: a science history podcast with Sam Kean

CHAPTER

Introduction

Edward Nippling hated screwworms as a child because he had to pick them out of open wounds on his family's cows. He eventually became an entomologist, and even named his pet Siamese cats after insects. His idea was called the 'single most original idea of the 20th century' by the New York Times.

00:00
Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner