Something You Should Know cover image

Something You Should Know

What Makes You Uniquely Human & How Words Affect Your Thoughts

Oct 14, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Adam Rutherford, a science writer and author of "The Book of Humans," uncovers the surprising traits that distinguish humans from other species. He challenges common perceptions of human uniqueness, touching upon our emotional complexities. Meanwhile, Steven Mithen, an archaeologist, explores the origins of language, revealing how our ancestors evolved from grunting to using words. He delves into how language shapes thought and perception, emphasizing its pivotal role in human communication and culture.
51:05

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Quick takeaways

  • The practice of naming storms enhances public safety and awareness, with a system that has evolved since its inception in 1953.
  • Language not only shapes human thought and perception, but its evolution reflects significant societal and cognitive changes throughout history.

Deep dives

The Significance of Storm Naming

Naming storms serves a practical purpose in enhancing public awareness and safety. This practice dates back to the 19th century, where storms were originally named after the Saints' days they occurred on. The National Hurricane Center adopted the practice of naming storms in 1953, initially using female names and introducing male names later in 1979. Understanding storm names also means recognizing that particularly destructive storms, like hurricanes, have their names retired to avoid confusion in future communications.

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