Histories of Science in Africa

In this podcast, we examine the rich historical roots and contemporary developments of scientific practice and related disciplines in Africa. Often misconstrued as outside the history of science, scholars and science practitioners alike have sought to demonstrate the vitality of science in Africa, and this podcast aims to share these critical perspectives with a wider audience. While each episode is unique, common threads of discussion are: research methods, discourses of health and science, varying understandings of health and scientific inquiry, and the ways that the social and scientific are intertwined. The podcast is aimed at students and scholars of African studies, as well as casual listeners who are interested in learning about science, technology, and healthcare on the continent. We interview historians, social scientists, and practitioners of medicine and science who have published work on a variety of topics including epidemics, pharmaceuticals, food security, and environmental change. Each episode features a different guest, and takes one of the interviewee’s publications as a jumping off point for discussion. Suggested reading is mentioned at the beginning of each episode and listed on the website, but the conversation will not be lost on listeners who have not read. A complete transcript is available for download on the website, along with references to other works that we make in the podcast. Episodes will be released on the last Friday of each month.