What are the most fun, memorable, interesting, exciting, and long-lasting learning experiences you have had? [more inside]
posted by Cygnet on Nov 20, 2009 - 25 answers

What should I name my new project? (hint: it involves hair and significant historical figures). [more inside]
posted by Jezztek on Aug 3, 2009 - 27 answers

In search of an aeronautical/science historian who can explain something to a history major with next to no engineering background. I understand that in 1852 Henri Giffard built an airship with a steam powered engine, but it wasn't until gas engines are more commonly used that zeppelins and other larger, more navigable craft were employed. Is the answer that gas is enough more powerful than steam, that smaller, lighter engines could be used? Was something wrong with his propeller design? Or was there a different path that could have been explored with the materials/technology on hand in the mid-nineteenth century that they didn't notice, that in hindsight is clear? Many thanks - no real reason, just terribly curious.
posted by korej on Jul 8, 2009 - 20 answers

Did Borges read Schroedinger?
The arithmetical system of Tlön "states that the operation of counting modifies quantities and changes them from indefinites into definites."
The sequence of history makes it possible. Borges's omnivorous reading habits and academic/social prowess help the probability. Yet Schroedinger's initial obscurity in the matter makes it less plausible.
Google has done nothing to answer the vital question: did Borges hear about Schroedinger's cat before he wrote Tlön, Uqbar, Orbis Tertius? [more inside]
posted by es_de_bah on Apr 2, 2009 - 12 answers

Soviet science: Besides the obvious topic of space exploration, name some examples of post World War II Soviet science that were so good, they entered global, widespread use without much modification and are perhaps still in use today. [more inside]
posted by Cool Papa Bell on Mar 2, 2009 - 8 answers

How is the meaning of art and artefacts being altered by the methods we use to: Experience, Define and Preserve them... In other words, in what ways have technologies been used to experience, re-define and/or preserve art and artifacts? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious on Feb 5, 2008 - 12 answers

What kinds of high-technology things exist now but will only come to light 50 or 100 years from now? Speculative, but asking for concrete answers. [more inside]
posted by exlotuseater on Nov 30, 2007 - 41 answers

What are the best history of science books for the intelligent layperson? Some examples along these lines include Richard Rhodes' "The Making of the Atomic Bomb", David Bodanis' "E=mc2" and Dava Sobel's "Longitude"; books which mix equally well the explanation of scientific concepts with historical/biographical storytelling, and are not intended for practitioners of the field. In addition to general suggestions, specific recommendations about the history of probability & statistics and the history of science in the ancient/medieval world would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!
posted by lorenzism on Sep 22, 2007 - 37 answers

Is there a book or website that details early attempts to assemble fossilized bone into animals/dinosaur skeletons? [more inside]
posted by R. Mutt on Sep 1, 2006 - 4 answers

What tv shows would you recommend for learning about history and evolution of human society and connections across times and places and disciplines ? [more inside]
posted by studentguru on Jun 29, 2006 - 10 answers

Is Dark Matter the new Phlogiston? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious on Jun 26, 2006 - 35 answers

The Protagonist: What can you tell me? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious on Jun 8, 2006 - 17 answers

A coworker is interested in broadening her general knowledge with an emphasis in History and Science. So, she's looking for a site she can set to be her home page where she can get bite sized chunks of interesting information (like 5 to 15 minutes at a time). Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by willnot on Apr 4, 2006 - 11 answers

Gravity/Life/SocietyFilter: So the Earth is all lumpy, with more or less gravity in some places. Has anyone ever corroborated it with life/social/world things? Many questions inside... [more inside]
posted by amberglow on Feb 18, 2006 - 33 answers

Why did consciousness evolve? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious on Jan 25, 2006 - 39 answers

I want to make a mix CD based on educational songs that still sound good. Any subject - biology, chemistry, grammar, history, you name it. What songs should I add to my collection?
posted by Newbornstranger on May 14, 2005 - 45 answers