The Very Short Introductions Podcast cover image

The Very Short Introductions Podcast

Ancient Greek and Roman Science – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 79

Dec 14, 2023
Liba Taub, a science historian and author, discusses the science of ancient Greece and Rome. The podcast explores the link between poetry, philosophy, and science. It also delves into the engagement in science among the ancients, the enduring impact of ancient science, and the importance of studying ancient sources and visual evidence.
11:18

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ancient Greek and Roman scientific and technical texts were often written by poets, indicating the overlap between science and poetry in Greco-Roman culture.
  • Studying ancient texts provides insights into the broader context of science in ancient cultures and its historical significance.

Deep dives

Science in Ancient Greece and Rome

Ancient Greek and Roman societies are often credited with the origins of science. However, the concept of science as we know it today did not exist in the ancient world. Nevertheless, there were individuals in ancient texts who actively engaged in the study of nature, medicine, and mathematics. While not labeled 'scientists', they possessed specialist knowledge and skills. Ancient scientific and technical texts were not always in the same format as modern works. Some of the most important scientific and technical texts were written by individuals primarily known as poets, indicating the overlap between science and poetry in Greco-Roman culture. The practical aspect of ancient science is often overlooked, but many of those known for scientific and mathematical work were also celebrated for their practical achievements.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode