

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
Apr 24, 2024 • 22min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… The Gods
Robin Ince, Brian Cox, and Eric Idle debate science, religion, and comedy. They question God's presence in gluten-free bread and ponder if religious beliefs will fade in an age of advancing science. The podcast explores intelligence and beliefs, suggesting a link between liberalism and higher IQ.

Apr 17, 2024 • 20min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Talking to Aliens
Conan O’Brien hopes for lizard-like aliens, Greg Proops imagines little green girls from Star Trek. Debate ensues on best way to talk to aliens - equations or Bach music?

7 snips
Apr 10, 2024 • 18min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Gardening
Comedian Ed Byrne showcases his surprising horticultural knowledge as the hosts debate about plants, strawberries, and invasive species. They also discuss encounters with grey squirrels and defend mosquitoes. The episode is filled with humor and fascinating insights into the world of gardening.

Apr 3, 2024 • 20min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Love
Mathematician Hannah Fry discusses the importance of being proactive in finding a partner, even at the risk of humiliation. The podcast explores the fascinating mating rituals of birds and bees, from impregnation mid-air to selective behavior in choosing mates. It also touches on animal behavior, intelligence, and humorous comparisons to human relationships.

Mar 27, 2024 • 21min
The Infinite Monkey's Guide To… Murder
Entomologist Amoret Whitaker and criminal psychologist Dr. Julia Shaw discuss using flies and fleas to solve crimes. They explore humanity's potential for murder, along with nature's own homicidal tendencies. Topics include forensic botany, the role of fleas in investigations, and the gruesome tactics of wasps and fungi in targeting their prey.

Mar 20, 2024 • 43min
Higgs Boson
Join Brian Cox and Robin Ince at CERN's Large Hadron Collider as they search for the elusive Higgs boson. Discover the fascinating world of particle physics with comedian Katy Brand, actor Ben Miller, and physicists Tevong You and Clara Nellist. Learn about the Higgs mechanism, particle detection complexities, impact on medical technology, and unraveling the universe's mysteries in a humorous and entertaining way.

14 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 42min
Cats v Dogs
Join Brian Cox, Robin Ince, and guests as they delve into the age-old debate of cats vs dogs. They explore domestication's impact on our furry friends, debate intelligence and love, and uncover the nuances of cat-human interactions. With humor and insights, they tackle the ultimate question - which pet truly loves you?

Mar 6, 2024 • 42min
Poison
Exploring historical poisonings with insights from a chemist and Agatha Christie fan. Discussing the ease of access to poisons, famous cases, and deadly garden plants. Delving into literary depictions of poisons in crime novels and the potency of cyanide. Analyzing thallium poisoning in Agatha Christie's 'The Pale Horse' and playful discussions on symbolic meanings of poison.

Feb 28, 2024 • 42min
Asteroids
Exploring asteroids, the podcast features discussions with experts on their impact on the solar system and Earth. They delve into asteroid classification, space missions trying to retrieve samples, and the potential use of asteroids for space exploration. The episode also touches on asteroid mining and the legal implications, all presented with a mix of scientific insights and humor.

Feb 21, 2024 • 43min
Could it be magic?
Brian Cox and Robin Ince delve into the science of magic with comedians and experts, exploring the psychology behind magic tricks and the brain's predictive nature. They discuss the art of card magic, misdirection techniques, and the therapeutic benefits of magic. The podcast highlights the intersection of magic and science, revealing the complexities and illusions behind captivating tricks.