David Sepkoski

David Sepkoski, a historian of science and author, joins for an intriguing exploration of how the discovery of the dinosaur extinction event during the Cold War shifted our understanding of catastrophic risks. The discussion weaves through Walter Alvarez's groundbreaking research linking iridium to an asteroid impact. Sepkoski reveals how these insights paralleled nuclear winter models championed by Carl Sagan, ultimately influencing public perception and policy against nuclear war. The conversation highlights the intertwined fates of dinosaurs and humanity through the lens of scientific advocacy.