In '1493', Charles C. Mann explores the global effects of the Columbian Exchange, which followed Columbus's first landing in the Americas. The book details how this exchange led to a global homogenization of species, diseases, and tools, significantly impacting the rise of Europe, the decline of imperial China, and the convulsion of Africa. Mann also discusses how Mexico City became a central hub where Asia, Europe, and the Americas interacted, and how these exchanges have influenced today's political disputes, trade policies, and cultural wars. The book is based on extensive research from biologists, anthropologists, archaeologists, and historians, offering a comprehensive and fascinating look at the origins of modern globalization[2][3][4].
In this book, Charles C. Mann presents recent research findings that suggest human populations in the Western Hemisphere were more numerous, culturally sophisticated, and environmentally influential than previously thought. Mann argues that pre-Columbian Indians were not sparsely settled in a pristine wilderness but instead actively molded and influenced their environment. He highlights the advanced cities, such as Tenochtitlan, which had running water and clean streets, and discusses the significant impact of European diseases on Native American populations. The book challenges traditional views of Native American societies and their technological and social complexity[1][3][5].
Would the world be a better place if we all paused to enjoy a square of sustainably-sourced craft chocolate every day? In honor of the Thanksgiving season, Reid and Aria treat Possible listeners to a discussion about chocolate, flavor, and sustainability. Joining them is Spencer Hyman, whose company, Cocoa Runners, sells craft chocolates from sustainability-minded artisan makers around the world. He gets into the difference between flavor and taste, along with the future of personalized nutrition and the art of savoring everything from chocolate to friendship.
For more info on the podcast and transcripts of all the episodes, visit https://www.possible.fm/podcast/
Topics:
2:33 - Hellos and intros
4:20 - Spencer’s journey into the world of chocolate
6:25 - The language of flavor
8:01 - How AI could impact taste
10:23 - Inflection’s Pi describes flavors in creative ways
13:03 - Leading a sustainable business that combines capital and social good
15:17 - Making chocolate more social
16:08 - Why chocolate is water-intensive
18:32 - Waves of culinary trends and innovations
22:17 - Midroll ad break
22:24 - Can technology help us better savor food?
25:14 - The next potential innovations in the food industry
28:07 - Why the order you eat things in matters
30:50 - Building meaningful connection via chocolate
34:14 - A conversation with Spencer’s daughter about chocolate and relationship-building
38:18 - Rapid-fire questions
Possible 
