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Dibs on it

Dibs on it

Written by: Gautham Kaarthik
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Welcome to Dibs on it, where literature meets science in an engaging exploration of ideas! Each season takes you on a different journey: In Season One, we dive deep into the realm of books! Join us as we break down captivating stories, providing insightful explanations of themes, characters, and the science behind the narratives. Then, in Season Two, we shift gears to bring you compelling interviews with authors, scientists, and thought leaders. Together, we explore the fascinating scientific concepts and innovations that inspire and intersect with literature. Whether you’re a devoted reader or a science aficionado, Dibs on it offers a unique blend of storytelling and inquiry to stimulate your mind and ignite your imagination!Copyright Gautham Kaarthik Art Science
Episodes
  • Ep11. Chapter 11 - Imperial Visions
    Sep 27 2025
    In this episode, we dive into Chapter 11 of Sapiens, where Yuval Noah Harari unpacks the rise and legacy of empires. From Rome to the British Raj, empires have shaped human history not just through conquest, but through imagination. Harari argues that empires are built on shared myths—stories that unite diverse peoples under a single banner.

    We explore how empires spread culture, religion, and language, often leaving behind legacies that outlast their political power. But Harari doesn’t shy away from the darker truths: imperialism often came at the cost of justice and equality. So, were empires engines of progress or tools of oppression? Or both?

    Tune in as we unravel the paradox of imperial visions—how imagined orders forged real-world empires that continue to shape our lives today.
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    16 mins
  • Ep10. Chapter 10 - The Scent of Money
    Jun 11 2025
    Money is more than coins, paper, or digital numbers—it’s a shared belief, a universal system of trust that has fueled human civilization. In this episode, we delve into the profound impact of money as explored in Chapter 10 of Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari. How did ancient societies move from barter to standardized currency? Why did humans collectively accept money as a real force, even when it has no intrinsic value? The story of money is the story of human cooperation, conflict, and ambition. From the rise of gold and silver to the evolution of banking and global trade networks, we explore how economies shaped empires and transformed daily life. We also examine the psychological power of money—how it influences behavior, trust, and social hierarchies. Is money the most successful fiction humanity ever created? Join us as we dissect the fascinating history of currency and its role in shaping the modern world.
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    14 mins
  • Ep 9 . Chapter 9 - The Arrow of History
    Apr 19 2025
    In this episode, we explore how human cultures evolve, clash, and merge over time. Societies thrive on shared myths, but history shows us that contradictions are everywhere—medieval knights upheld Christianity and chivalry, despite their conflicting values, just as modern nations balance personal freedoms with collective responsibilities. From ancient civilizations to today's globalized world, cultures have never been static—they shift, borrow, and adapt. Join us as we unravel how history’s arrow moves toward unity, shaping the way we live today.
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    12 mins
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