Ainsley Johnston, a data journalist specializing in China's scientific achievements, and Lane Green, The Economist's correspondent in Spain, dive into China's rapid ascent as a scientific superpower, exploring its research advancements and implications for global collaboration. They also discuss the Mediterranean's unique factors contributing to longevity, including diet and community connections. Additionally, the podcast spotlights the intriguing emergence of cicadas, exploring their life cycles and the impact of climate change on their behaviors.
China excels in physical sciences, lagging in medical sciences.
Mediterranean longevity linked to lifestyle habits and social connections, not just diet.
Deep dives
China's Rise in Scientific Research
China has significantly increased its scientific research output in recent years, surpassing the US and Europe in many areas. While excelling in physical sciences, China still lags behind in medical sciences. Despite producing high-quality papers, Chinese research papers tend to have lower impact compared to American ones. China's investment in research funding, equipment, and manpower has propelled its scientific advancements.
Mediterranean Longevity and Lifestyle
Countries in the Mediterranean, like Spain, boast high longevity rates attributed to factors beyond diet such as movement and social interactions. The Mediterranean diet, while important, is not the sole contributor to longevity, as lifestyle habits also play a crucial role. Spanish cities' walkability and emphasis on social connections have positively impacted the population's health and well-being.
Cicadas and Climate Change
The emergence of cicada broods with 13 and 17-year life cycles in the US has intrigued entomologists due to their unique mating behaviors and evolutionary strategies. Scientists are studying the impact of climate change on cicadas' lifecycle and behaviors, examining how temperature variations could affect their survival and reproduction. Observing cicada interactions during the meeting of the 13 and 17-year broods provides insights into their adaptation and responses to environmental changes.
After decades as a scientific also-ran, China is becoming a superpower particularly in the physical sciences. We examine the risks and opportunities that poses for the West. Our correspondent looks into why denizens of the Mediterranean live so long (10.32). And this year’s confluence of two broods makes for a rare preponderance of cicadas (17.53).