Intelligence Squared What Stories Are Written in The Rock Beneath Us? With Dr Anjana Khatwa
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Nov 21, 2025 In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Anjana Khatwa, an award-winning Earth Scientist and author, unearths the hidden narratives within our landscapes. She illustrates how rocks are not mere objects but are vital storytellers of history and culture. Dr. Khatwa emphasizes the importance of blending Western geology with Indigenous perspectives, revealing the emotional and ancestral connections we can forge with stones. She also addresses the ethical dilemmas of mineral demand and highlights how engaging with our local geology can deepen our understanding of the world.
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Rocks As Hidden Timekeepers
- Rocks feel constant because they change on timescales beyond everyday perception.
- That constancy hides their role as active archives shaping life, climate and culture.
Begin With A Single Rock
- Start by noticing and keeping the rock you picked up on walks to connect with local geology.
- Layer personal memory with scientific and traditional stories to bring rocks to life.
Coal From The Birthplace Of Industry
- Anjana holds a piece of coal from Ironbridge Gorge to show geology's role in the Industrial Revolution.
- She links coal, limestone and iron ore to industrial processes and to modern climate consequences.
