Royal Institution Christmas Lectures

Charles J. M. Stirling: Our World Through the Looking Glass

We are set apart from other animals both by use of language whose control is normally located in the left side of the brain and by the fact that unlike most other animals, which have mix handedness, we are predominantly right-handed. In the 1992 CHRISTMAS LECTURES, we look at first our own symmetry, overall in terms of handedness and our superficial appearance, and also below the surface at ours brains and other organs. Then we shall look at ourselves in the world at large, focusing on the symmetry of our fellow creatures and the artefacts that we have created. The connection of both of these to left-right relationships will be explored.

Where to Watch Charles J. M. Stirling: Our World Through the Looking Glass

5 Episodes

  • Man in the Mirror
    E1
    Man in the MirrorAs humans we are a lot less symmetrical than we appear. We have dominant hands, ears and even eyes. How did that evolve and why does it matter?
  • Narwhals, Palindromes and Chesterfield Station
    E2
    Narwhals, Palindromes and Chesterfield StationChirality confers individuality, recognition, and specificity. All of these qualities are vital in the struggle for existence.
  • The Handed Molecule
    E3
    The Handed MoleculeA look at the way in which the handedness of molecules governs the interaction between chemicals.
  • Symmetry, Sensation and Sex
    E4
    Symmetry, Sensation and SexOur sensory mechanisms are all handed, with smell and sight being just two that are affected.
  • In the Hands of the Giants
    E5
    In the Hands of the GiantsIn this talk Charles Stirling examines handed giants - carbohydrates and proteins - whose building blocks are glucose and amino-acids.

 

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