Episode 23: The Science and Handwavium of Shrinking

In this episode of the Rabbit Hole of Research, hosts Joe, Nick, and Georgia dig into the concept of shrinking in both real life and fiction. They explore the phenomenon of shrinkage due to cold, as seen in popular culture, and discuss fictional portrayals of shrinking in movies like Ant-Man, The Incredible Shrinking Woman, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. They examine the scientific plausibility of shrinking objects or people, referencing various scientific principles and fictional technologies. Additionally, they touch on topics like the challenges of human cellular function and metabolism at a smaller scale, and the potential adaptations for such shrinkage. The episode also highlights the charm and narrative utility of shrinking in storytelling, referencing literature such as Gulliver's Travels and Alice in Wonderland.To see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFVSubscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, see photos of the crew, never miss an episode, and spread the word!! Artwork by Georgia Geis see more on Instagram at atomic_number14Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like! Leave 5 stars! Get full access to The Rabbit Hole of Research at jothamaustin.substack.com/subscribe