Dan Cruikshank is a secret British treasure. His delivery is idiosyncratic to say the least but his enthusiasm for architecture is so infectious he could take you on a journey through the sheds of Birmingham and it would probably be enthralling.
Favourite quote of the event 'is anyone in control of this?' he seemed happy to just keep on talking although the stewards did shut him up after the allotted 60 minutes.
In an utterly charming way he pointed out that although there are great houses open to the public such as Blenheim, Petworth, Chatsworth, there are also great houses of architectural merit that face possible demolition to make way for new houses unless individuals or organisations of means step in with viable plans to save them. He made an interesting point about how the separation of great houses from their land, a not uncommon practice, can decrease the likelihood of saving the house in the medium or long term.
Incoming! Or, Why We Should Stop Worrying and Learn to Love the Meteorite - Ted Nield
The science one is fed on TV and in the popular press really has a lot to answer for in creating widespread hysteria and panelic theory. Relax, the likelihood of another event that might cause mass extinction as happened 65 million years ago is really very very remote. To do that much damage it needs to be in conjunction with another major cataclysmic even such as long term, and massive,. volcanic eruption.
It makes me wish I had paid more attention at school when I realise the directions open to those who do. The science profs at Hay are fascinating and thought provoking, the major appeal being in their supporting their theories with evidence and reasoning.
Ted Neild brought along a large lump of meteorite that had been sent to him in the post. I will always regret not having asked if I could have a go of it as I'm sure he would have agreed. maybe next time. We booked this one at the last minute because there was a big gap between events and it turned out to be one of my favourites.
Peter Atkins - On Being A Scientist’s Exploration of the Great Questions of Existence.
Another Oxford don provides a though provoking presentation arguing that scientific reasoning can be used to answer any question including those most difficult questions about existence and religion. Once again the audience audience questions illustrated how ignorant people can be. He asked Atkins to use his method to explain altruistic love which of course posed no problem to the don but did make the inquisitor look a bit foolish. There seems little point in attempting to crush many years of argument practice by the application of a spot of Daily Mail bravado. I suppose I should admire those who have the nerve to ask such fatuous questions but I do feel that better value for money would be had by extending the speaking elements of the events and shortening the time available for questions.
Dara O'Briain - was very funny.
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