How does reading work?

Oxford Sparks Big Questions by Fiona Jones

Apr 8, 202613:21Science & Medicine

Aside from the odd unfamiliar or complicated word, a lot of us won't think twice when it comes to reading. It's a skill we take for granted. But, relatively speaking, it's actually a fairly new skill - beginning about 55...

Related Episodes

Continue listening to more episodes from Oxford Sparks Big Questions.

What is a digital brain twin?

Jul 8, 2026 - 13:12

Each of us is different. Our genetics and life experiences shape us into unique individuals – with unique...

How can we use AI to make drugs?

Jun 17, 2026 - 12:08

Put simply, most drugs work by binding to a protein and altering how they function. But how can we model...

How do you build the aeroplane of the future?

Jun 3, 2026 - 11:01

In 2022, 7% of the UK's total carbon emissions came from the aviation sector - a figure that's on the ris...

Should I be freaked out by the hantavirus?

May 20, 2026 - 13:23

Until recently, most of us had probably never even heard of the hantavirus. Now - with memories of the gl...

Should we kill animals for conservation?

May 6, 2026 - 12:39

'Killing animals' and 'conservation' sound mutually exclusive, but when it comes to managing populations...

Can you predict the lottery?

Apr 22, 2026 - 12:58

"It's as likely as winning the lottery." A phrase used in situations where something is, well, pretty nea...

What's it like for women working in F1?

Mar 25, 2026 - 16:43

Historically, only two women have ever started a Grand Prix race, and as of the 2026 season, no women are...

How do you convert CO2 to rock?

Mar 11, 2026 - 13:26

We're living in an age of rapid technological development which - alongside many benefits - comes at an e...