The Infinite Monkey Cage
BBC Radio 4
Professor Brian Cox and Robin Ince host a witty, irreverent look at the world through scientists’ eyes. Joined by a panel of scientists, experts and celebrity science enthusiasts they investigate life, the universe and everything in between on The Infinite Monkey Cage from the BBC. From the smallest building blocks of life to the furthest stars, the curious monkeys pull apart the latest science to reveal fascinating and often bizarre insights into the world around us and what lies beyond. Can trees talk to each other? Can science help you commit the perfect murder? What might aliens look like and the burning question of our time, are strawberries alive or dead? Join them as each episode they put a different scientific topic under the microscope, from aliens, black holes and hedgehogs, to bacteria, poison and the Big Bang.
With past guests including actors Dame Judi Dench and Sir Patrick Stewart, comedians Steve Martin and Conan O’Brien, astronaut Tim Peake, primatologist Jane Goodall and mathematician Hannah Fry, The Infinite Monkey Cage promises to make you laugh, enrich your knowledge and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the universe that we call home.
Whether you’re a seasoned scientist or someone who nodded off in physics class, listen in to learn all about funny, fascinating and sometimes ridiculous topics – with the occasional monkey business.
With past guests including actors Dame Judi Dench and Sir Patrick Stewart, comedians Steve Martin and Conan O’Brien, astronaut Tim Peake, primatologist Jane Goodall and mathematician Hannah Fry, The Infinite Monkey Cage promises to make you laugh, enrich your knowledge and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the universe that we call home.
Whether you’re a seasoned scientist or someone who nodded off in physics class, listen in to learn all about funny, fascinating and sometimes ridiculous topics – with the occasional monkey business.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 43min
What a Gas! - Dave Gorman, Mark Miodownik and Lucy Carpenter
Comedian Dave Gorman, material scientist Mark Miodownik, and chemist Lucy Carpenter delve into the fascinating world of gases and their understated significance in our lives. They hilariously discuss the journey of human understanding of gases, from laughter-inducing nitrous oxide to the essential role of gases in modern technology. The trio also tackles the historical context of air pollution and its psychological effects, all while blending scientific insight with witty anecdotes. Prepare for a quirky exploration of the invisible forces that shape our reality!
Jul 31, 2024 • 43min
Extreme Exploration - Anneka Rice, Mike Massimino, Britney Schmidt and Jess Phoenix
In this fascinating discussion, adventurer Anneka Rice, astronaut Mike Massimino, astrobiologist Britney Schmidt, and volcanologist Jess Phoenix share their thrilling exploration stories. They delve into the complexities of planning expeditions to volcanoes and recount wild encounters with wildlife and cartel members. From breaking robots under Antarctic ice to the profound emotions linked to viewing Earth from space, they explore how these experiences shape our understanding of humanity. It's a captivating journey into the heart of extreme exploration!
7 snips
Jul 24, 2024 • 43min
'Beastly Bodies' Kids Special - Steve Backshall, Jess French and Adam Kay
Join Steve Backshall, Jess French, and Adam Kay as they engage with curious kids at the Cheltenham Science Festival discussing a battle between a shark and crocodile, the evolution of sweating in dogs, potential AI communication with animals, and the use of bacteriophages in fighting pandemics.
9 snips
Jul 17, 2024 • 43min
Science of Board Games - Jess Fostekew, Marcus du Sautoy and Dave Neale
Mathematician Marcus du Sautoy shares tips for winning at Monopoly, while games designer Dave Neale explains how games develop theory of mind. Comedian Jess Fostekew admits to becoming a ruthless gamer. Discussion on board game dynamics, strategies, historical origins, and emotional experiences during gameplay.
30 snips
Jul 10, 2024 • 42min
The Wonder of Trees - Dame Judi Dench, Tony Kirkham and Tristan Gooley
Dame Judi Dench, Tony Kirkham, and Tristan Gooley discuss their love for trees and share insights on tree navigation, rare tree journeys, and creating personal woodlands. They explore the competitive nature of trees, unique tree climbing adventures, and the significance of short trees. The podcast highlights the emotional connections to trees, the wonders of tree communication, and the importance of appreciating nature's mysteries.
May 29, 2024 • 22min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Audience Favourites (Pt 2)
Comedians Claire Hooper and Noel Fielding share their quirky encounters with spiders' mating rituals and creating a plasticine figure of Joey Ramone. The episode also touches on string theory inspiring a comic strip, discussions on Frankenstein monsters, and audience engagement through innovative technology in podcast recordings.
May 22, 2024 • 22min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Tiny Things
Short comedian Andy Hamilton and entomologist Erica McAlister discuss being three times bigger, favorite flies, and glowing ants gone wrong. Topics include unseen particles, microbes, and a gameshow about mammoths.
May 15, 2024 • 20min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… The Future
Eric Idle joins the discussion on the future of the universe and potential asteroid threats. The conversation takes a humorous turn with calculations on urine cooling energy in urinals and the concept of other species taking over from humans, like dolphins. The episode also touches on upcoming episodes, Roman history stories, and sponsor ads for Bolin Branch and SAP Concur Solutions.
4 snips
May 8, 2024 • 17min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Failure
Anthropologist Alice Roberts joins Brian Cox and Robin Ince to discuss the importance of failure in science, highlighting how mistakes can lead to discoveries. They explore Darwin's theory flaws, the accidental creation of Viagra, and the challenges in drug development for global health. The podcast reflects on past failures in medicine, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the debate on exercise as a health solution.
May 1, 2024 • 19min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Gambling
Psychologist Richard Wiseman joins Robin Ince and Brian Cox to discuss the science of gambling. They explore the psychology of games, the role of deception in human behavior, and how solving math problems can benefit us in various areas of life. The team also debates a puzzling conundrum involving a goat, a cabbage, and a hungry wolf, all while questioning why they were on a trip together in the first place.
