Sometimes in science, a question can be so hotly debated that attempting to answer it can become a lifetime project.
And more often than not these questions are ones that we didn’t even realise were up for debate.
In plant biology, the topic getting researchers all hot under the collar at the moment is the question of whether plants can be intelligent or ... Show More
Jul 19
The problem solving powers of bumblebees
Guests:Jussi Kantola, Data Analyst at the University of OuluMatthew Campbell, Professor of Neurovascular Genetics, Trinity College DublinDr Ruth Freeman, Director of Research for Society at Research Ireland
31m 31s
Jun 2024
Do Plants ‘Think’? We Might Not Know Enough about Consciousness to be Certain
Can plants “think?" Do they “talk” to one another? These are questions that scientists are asking—and the answers might surprise you. Zoë Schlanger, climate reporter at The Atlantic, sits down with Science Quickly host Rachel Feltman to discuss her new book The Light Eaters, whic ... Show More
23m 37s
Aug 2024
The not-so-secret life of plants
From the perspective of Western science, plants have long been considered unaware, passive life forms; essentially, rocks that happen to grow. But there’s something in the air in the world of plant science. New research suggests that plants are aware of the world around them to a ... Show More
39m 4s
Apr 2025
Astrobotany & Plant Intelligence with Simon Gilroy
<p>Are plants more aware than we think? Do they have feelings? Neil deGrasse Tyson, Gary O’Reilly, and Harrison Greenbaum explore the intelligence of plants with astrobotanist Simon Gilroy. From venus flytraps to space farming, we dig deep into the secret world of plants.</p><p>N ... Show More
55m 14s
Mar 2023
Do climbing plants know where they’re going?
<p>CrowdScience listener Eric, in New Zealand, has noticed his wisteria growing towards a neighbouring tree. He thinks that it actually knows where it’s going. But how can a plant have a sense of direction?</p><p>Plants don’t have the advantage of brains or eyes, but that doesn’t ... Show More
29 m