THIS EVENT REQUIRES ADDITIONAL BOOKING

Jack Rogers is a PhD student in the Department of Archaeology whose research examined pseudoarcheology and conspiracy theories, their validity, and their impact on archaeological material. Questions such as whether the pyramids were built by aliens or if a great Atlantean empire once rules the world are commonly encountered. What leads people to these ideas, and how often are they compared to mainstream archaeological explanations?

At this event, Jack will discuss the differences between science and pseudoscience, the importance of questioning academic methods and knowledge, and why academics place a greater trust in scientific explanations rather than alternative narratives commonly found in various forms of media.

You are encouraged to enjoy the reflections of this slightly mad archaeologist, while developing a new appreciation for some of the world's wonders and the remarkable people who built them. With a stronger understanding of critical thinking, the takeaway from this is that while many conspiracies may be fun and exciting stories, real archaeology is just as fascinating - even if there are fewer lasers. And if someone claims that science doesn't know everything, remember to respond with: of course not - because if it did, it would stop!