Hermitix
Darwin, Dickinson, and Disenchantment with Renée Bergland
Aug 14, 2024
Renée Bergland, a literature professor and author, explores the intriguing link between Emily Dickinson and Charles Darwin in her latest book. She discusses how both figures engaged with nature, blending scientific inquiry and poetic expression. The conversation challenges traditional gender assumptions in science, advocating for a nuanced understanding of its history. Renée also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary education, curiosity, and 'magical thinking' in appreciating the complexities of the natural world.
01:00:11
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Quick takeaways
- Berglund highlights the intertwined historical relationship between science and literature through the works of Dickinson and Darwin, emphasizing curiosity's role in scientific exploration.
- The podcast critiques misconceptions of Darwin's theories, advocating for a more cooperative understanding of nature that contrasts with the competitive narrative often portrayed.
Deep dives
The Interconnection of Science and Literature
Renee Berglund emphasizes the historical relationship between science and literature, particularly in the works of Emily Dickinson and Charles Darwin. She discusses how early scientific endeavors were often more closely associated with women and holistic approaches, contrasting with modern perceptions that categorize science as masculine and detached. This historical analysis reveals that both Dickinson and Darwin were deeply engaged with the mysteries of the natural world, illustrating a time when curiosity and wonder were integral to scientific exploration. This shift from a fluid understanding of knowledge to a rigid categorization reflects societal changes that oversimplify these disciplines.
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