Ridiculous History The Terrifying Science of Tiny Subs and D-Day, Part Two: The Rise of the Chamber Divers
Sep 11, 2025
This week, Dr. Rachel "Big Spinach" Lance, an expert in underwater physiology and author of "Chamber Divers," discusses the fascinating yet harrowing science behind D-Day's chamber divers. She unveils the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists in wartime, including risky experiments in hyperbaric chambers. Listeners will learn about the scientific rivalries, innovative submarine developments, and personal stories intertwined with military history. The episode blends humor and serious insights while honoring the unsung heroes of D-Day.
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Haldane Shelters Jewish Scientists
- JBS Haldane actively rescued Jewish refugee scientists from Nazi Germany and staffed his UCL lab with them.
- He used Rockefeller funding and offered positions so refugees could legally immigrate and work safely in England.
Genetics As Population Math
- Early genetics relied on population math to infer inheritance patterns rather than molecular DNA knowledge.
- Scientists used statistics across many organisms to detect trait distribution and variability in populations.
Fierce Academic Rivalry At UCL
- UCL housed two opposing genetics schools: anti-eugenic Haldane and pro-eugenic Ronald Fisher.
- Their rivalry was intense enough they located offices opposite sides of campus to avoid fights.
