If evolution is all about random mutations, why do the same patterns keep cropping up in the natural world? Coincidence? Not according to parrot-wielding eccentric, Sir D’Arcy Thompson. He realised that living things grow according to the laws of physics as well as genetics.

D’Arcy Thompson, Structuralism and the Shape of Life

Everywhere you look in nature you will find patterns. From the seeds in the flower under your nose to the flock of swallows overhead some patterns keep occurring again and again.

The essence of mathematics is a series of simple rules that produce complex consequences. And nowhere are these complex consequences more apparent than in the natural world.

This collection will look at 5 mathematical theories that were inspired by nature. It will look at the origin of the theory, its impact on research at the time and its continuing relevance.

Education

Everywhere you look in nature you will find patterns. From the seeds in the flower under your nose to the flock of swallows overhead some patterns keep occurring again and again. The essence of mathematics is a series of simple rules that produce complex consequences. And nowhere are these complex consequences more apparent than in the natural world. This collection will look at 5 mathematical theories that were inspired by nature. It will look at the origin of the theory, its impact on research at the time and its continuing relevance.

Share D’Arcy Thompson, Structuralism and the Shape of Life

Sign up to save your podcasts

D’Arcy Thompson, Structuralism and the Shape of Life

D’Arcy Thompson, Structuralism and the Shape of Life

More shows like Patterns of Life - for iPod/iPhone

Bon départ: beginners' French - Audio

Rheumatoid arthritis - a long term condition - for iPod/iPhone

Wilberforce - for iBooks

Voice of Indian Song - for iPod/iPhone

Writing Poetry - Audio

Reading Political Philosophy: From Machiavelli to Mill - Audio

Beginners’ Chinese - Audio

Andante: beginners' Italian - Audio

Bon départ: beginners’ French second edition - for iPod/iPhone

The Galapagos - for iPod/iPhone