Radiolab Revenge of the Miasma
125 snips
Feb 28, 2025 Dive into the murky history of airborne diseases and how disbelief masked an invisible threat for years. Science journalist Carl Zimmer reveals the tragic tale of a chorale rehearsal turned superspreader during COVID-19. Explore the dramatic shift from miasma to germ theory, uncovering how singing in shared spaces exposed hidden risks. Discover forgotten pioneers of air quality science and the fascinating connection between what we breathe and our health, highlighting the endless evolving narrative of disease transmission.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Watermelon Doctor
- Fred Meyer, a "watermelon doctor", discovered an airborne fungus.
- His work pioneering aerobiology ended when he disappeared in a plane crash.
Miasma's Reign
- Miasma theory, blaming "bad air" for disease, dominated for 2,000 years.
- It was a useful, albeit flawed, concept that hindered germ theory's acceptance.
Pettenkofer's Gamble
- Max von Pettenkofer, a miasma proponent, drank cholera bacteria to disprove germ theory.
- He survived due to a weaker strain, further delaying germ theory's widespread adoption.
