Exploring the potential of bird flu as the next pandemic, white women's involvement in American slavery, and the creation of the Economist's history quiz game. Plus, discussions on wireless prices, Wordle game, and engaging subscribers with puzzle games.
Read more
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Concerns about H5N1 bird flu's pandemic potential due to mammalian adaptations in the virus.
New research revealing active role of women in American slave trade challenges traditional narratives.
Deep dives
Implications of Britain's Pandemic Response
The inquiry into Britain's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic revealed significant failings in the government's preparedness and response. Former judge Heather Hallett highlighted that the UK was ill-prepared for a global pandemic, focusing on a different pathology. The inquiry underscored the inevitability of future pandemics, emphasizing the need for better readiness.
Potential Threat of H5N1 Bird Flu Pandemic
Concerns are rising about the potential of H5N1 bird flu to cause a global pandemic. Recent findings show mammalian adaptations in the virus, raising fears of human transmission. Despite mild cases in humans so far, the risk lies in further mutations and potential severe outcomes, reminiscent of the initial days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Role of Women in the American Slave Trade
Revealing new research sheds light on the active role of women in the American slave trade. Contrary to historical beliefs, women were extensively involved at all levels, from buying and selling slaves to running businesses using slave labor. The findings challenge traditional narratives and highlight women's significant influence in a brutal and dehumanizing system.
The scars of the covid pandemic are still raw, but now a virus spreading among farm animals could leap to humans. Could bird flu become the next pandemic? White women are sometimes absolved of blame in the crime of slavery in America (9:50). Research suggests they may have been culpable too. And meet the creator of Dateline, the Economist’s history quiz (17:25).