Rebecca Stott says the idea of 'going down a rabbit hole' is often characterised as a bad thing - here, she makes the case for what's to be gained.
"These days we invariably use the phrase 'down the rabbit hole' to describe a negative experience...where people get lost, then become overwhelmed, ensnare themselves in conspiracy theories and can't get back out," she says.
"But I don't believe rabbit holes are bad in themselves. If we avoid them altogether we lose the chance to experience their joy and excitement."
She recalls her own experience of discovery - and tells the story of how Charles Darwin once spent eight years distracted by barnacles.
Producer: Sheila Cook Sound: Peter Bosher Production coordinator: Liam Morrey Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Invisible Women
Living with Group Difference
The Age of Infantilism
What are you doing here?
Reflections on my Mother's Kenwood Mixer
The Florida Phone Call
Is that Miss or Mrs Wheeler?
The Year of Speaking Dangerously
Sacred Cows and Sushi Rolls
What'll you have?
A Sense of an Opening
Going Underground
A Sense of Fear
Sacking the Capitols
The Power of Slow Storytelling
Whose Free Speech?
A Turning Point for Democracy?
New Year Letter from New York
Spiritual Pick and Mix
Off the Map
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It is Free
Global News Podcast
The Infinite Monkey Cage
Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4
You’re Dead to Me
Elis James and John Robins