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
Limbo
The Tourist Trap
Freddie Mercury's Moustache Comb
The Soul of a Rebel
The Dragon and The Dog
Notes on Ageing
Good Directions
Observing Ourselves
Midsummer and the Mysteries of Colour
Beyoncé, Beauty and the Pursuit of Youth
To Mow or Not to Mow
Taking Hammer to Gill
The Ratings Game
Demographic Meltdown
Dust to Dust
On Ascent
Abide with Yourself
In Praise of Satire
The Wisdom of Judgement
Insecurity
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The Infinite Monkey Cage
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