The Infinite Monkey Cage Risk
Nov 18, 2013
David Spiegelhalter, an expert in risk perception from the University of Cambridge, shares fascinating insights on how society's views on risk have evolved. Sue Ion brings her expertise in nuclear energy, discussing its safety and public perception post-Fukushima. Comedian Graeme Garden adds humor while exploring the risks of childhood stunts and power outages. The trio delves into the impact of sensational media on risk understanding and introduces engaging concepts like 'micro-morts'—a quirky way to measure everyday risks.
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Goodies' Dangerous Buster Keaton Stunt
- Graeme Garden recounts recreating a Buster Keaton house-falling stunt.
- They survived despite nervous doubts about standing on the marked floor square.
Modern Childhood Is Exceptionally Safe
- Childhood safety improved massively: road deaths for kids fell ~95% since the 1970s.
- David Spiegelhalter calls being seven today the safest age in human history.
Mortality Grows Exponentially With Age
- Human mortality risk rises exponentially with age at ~9% per year.
- David Spiegelhalter notes risk roughly doubles every eight years due to this "force of mortality."
