Join science journalist Susanne Wedlich, author of "Slime: A Natural History," as she unravels the gooey mysteries of slime. Discover why hagfish slime is a marvel of nature and learn how it could revolutionize technology, from textiles to naval applications. Wedlich challenges cultural perceptions, discussing slime’s significant role in sustainability and its surprising ties to femininity in literature. She also highlights the rise of slime as a playful cultural phenomenon, showcasing our complex relationship with this often-misunderstood substance.
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Snail Slime
Susanne Wedlich's interest in slime began 20 years ago after reading an article about snails.
The article detailed how snails use slime trails to communicate, leaving messages like contact ads.
insights INSIGHT
Learned Disgust
Disgust towards slime is a learned behavior, not innate, as we learn to associate slime with pathogens.
This disgust is often overblown in modern society, where we have less direct contact with natural slime.
insights INSIGHT
Slime's Potential
There are many potential applications for slime, including slowing down enemy boats and creating new types of glue.
Bio-inspired glues could revolutionize industries and contribute to a circular economy.
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In 'Slime: A Natural History', Susanne Wedlich delves into the fascinating world of slime, tracing its 3 billion year history from its role in the evolution of life to its potential in the post-human future. The book explores slime's biological functions, its presence in various ecosystems, and its cultural impact across literature, art, and film. Wedlich discusses how slime is both a vehicle for pathogens and a crucial component of our immune system, highlighting its importance in our world.
Why are women known as the slimier sex? How did the US Navy replicate hagfish slime for ballistics protection? In this episode we’re joined by science journalist Susanne Wedlich to look at the weird and wonderful, cultural and biological, history of slime. And for those of you who don’t love slime, we encourage you to listen for some great facts about the powers and potential of this substance and learn why we shouldn't be so repulsed by slime. Our host for this episode is journalist Amelia Tait.
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