

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
Oct 4, 2023 • 23min
The Infinite Monkey’s Guide to... Strawberries
The hosts discuss the concept of determining when a strawberry is truly dead, exploring the ideas of souls and resurrection. They also delve into the possibility of reversing death and the potential for immortality. The chapter touches on the presence of DNA in various locations, including a personal anecdote about DNA in undergarments. The drawbacks of immortality are considered, including the erosion of time and the cancellation of Doctor Who.

Sep 27, 2023 • 22min
The Infinite Monkey’s Guide to... The Movies
Discover the importance of scientific accuracy in movies, the existence of wormholes, and the intersection of science fiction and theoretical physics. Hear about a quirky theater experience and a recommended film podcast.

Sep 20, 2023 • 21min
The Infinite Monkey’s Guide To... Space Travel
Astronauts and explorers, including Brian Blessed, Sir Patrick Stewart, Nicole Stott, and Charlie Duke, discuss their passion for space travel. They delve into the wonders and challenges of traveling into space, talking about topics like Mars exploration, personal experiences in space, and the value of humans in space exploration. The podcast also touches on limited communication in space and pays tribute to Patrick Moore with a heartfelt poem.

Sep 13, 2023 • 19min
The Infinite Monkey’s Guide To... The Apocalypse
Astrophysicists Brian Cox and Katie Mack explore the various ways the universe could end, from the sun exploding to galaxies tearing each other apart. Comedian Steve Martin contemplates the meaning of life and the guests discuss the irrationality behind apocalyptic myths. The podcast also touches on advancements in technology and communication, as well as hypothetical solutions for survival and the limitations of time travel.

Sep 6, 2023 • 22min
The Infinite Monkey’s Guide to... The Supernatural
Comedian Lucy Beaumont's belief in alien life, the psychology of ghosts, debunking Father Christmas, quantum physics and Santa, exploring mysticism at Glastonbury, and the pursuit of everlasting life are discussed in this intriguing and entertaining podcast.

Sep 5, 2023 • 3min
Welcome to The Infinite Monkey's Guide To...
Physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince introduce a new series of their hit science show. They provide listeners with handy guides on various topics, highlighting memorable moments from previous episodes.

7 snips
Aug 5, 2023 • 43min
Cosmic Dust
Brian Cox and Robin Ince find out about dust that is raining down on Earth from space. They are joined by planetary scientists Matthew Genge and Penny Wozniakiewicz and comedian Alan Davies. They learn how billions of tiny micrometeorites land on the surface of the Earth every year, hidden amongst pollution particles and household dust. Where does cosmic dust come from and what can it tell us about the birth of the solar system?New episodes are released on Saturdays. If you're in the UK, listen to the full series first on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3K3JzyFProducer: Caroline Steel
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem

17 snips
Jul 29, 2023 • 42min
Ancient DNA Secrets
Brian Cox and Robin Ince are joined by Horrible Histories alum Ben Willbond, ancient DNA experts Prof Turi King and Dr Tom Booth and Nobel prize winner Sir Paul Nurse, as they uncover some of the incredible revelations being revealed through study of ancient DNA. The discovery of the skeleton of Richard III under a Leicester car park made headlines around the world.Turi King talks about her involvement in identifying the regal remains using DNA extracted from his teeth and how she was able to prove that these ancient bones really did belong to King Richard. The panel also hear about a mysterious box of bones found in Winchester Cathedral purporting to date from the 8th and 9th century that could belong to some of our ancient Anglo Saxon kings and queens of England, including those of King Canute and his wife Queen Emma. Could the study of ancient DNA change our understanding of history, and perhaps even upset the line of succession?New episodes are released on Saturdays. If you're in the UK, listen to the full series first on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3K3JzyFExecutive Producer: Alexandra Feachem

75 snips
Jul 22, 2023 • 42min
The Secret Life of Sharks
Brian Cox and Robin Ince find out about the apex predators of the ocean. They are joined by physiological ecologist Lucy Hawkes, shark scientist Isla Hodgson and naturalist Steve Backshall. They learn about the surprising social behaviours of sharks, how they reproduce and exactly how long they have been around for - they’re even older than dinosaurs! Brian and Robin hear about Steve’s experience of diving with over 100 species of shark. Is their reputation as cold blooded killers accurate? New episodes are released on Saturdays. If you're in the UK, listen to the full series first on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3K3JzyFProducer: Caroline Steel
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem

55 snips
Jul 15, 2023 • 43min
The Magic of Mushrooms
Brian Cox and Robin Ince find out about the secret world of fungi, hidden beneath our feet. They are joined by biologist Merlin Sheldrake and mycologist Katie Field. They hear about the hidden life of fungi, including their hundreds of mating types, predatory behaviour and crucial role in life beginning on Earth. Katie shares how mycologists like her are using fungi to come up with creative solutions to climate change.New episodes are released on Saturdays. If you're in the UK, listen to the full series first on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3K3JzyFProducer: Caroline Steel
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem


