Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

An Enlightening Case: The Science of Lightning and the Medical Effects of Being Struck by It

Various venues across London

Wed 7 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"An Enlightening Case: The Science of Lightning and the Medical Effects of Being Struck by It" with Dr Dan Harris Summary: Lightning: what, where, how, and why you don't want to ride it. (proof that Mother Nature abhors golf) Lightning is one of the most beautiful yet uncontrollable and dangerous naturally occurring things in nature. Every year in the UK several people get struck by lightning, causing a unique and still not fully understood series of short, medium and long term sequalae. How does it form? How can it contain such extraordinary power within it that it can galvanise Dr Frankenstein's creature, yet people survive its impact? Why are lightning strike frequencies on the rise across all continents? What effect has it on lightning strike victims, both predicable and extraordinary. Bio : Dr Dan Harris has been a frontline physician for over 30 years having dealt with everything from broken toes to heart attacks to terrorist bombings to global pandemics. The outcomes of his research have been adopted by Emergency Departments across Europe and even mountain rescue teams in Pakistan. This particular interest stems from being presented with a patient during a quiet shift who had been struck on the back of the head by a bolt of lightning whilst walking through Regents Park, yet his mother still only recalls the parts of his work where on 2 separate occasions he accidentally swore whilst being interviewed live on the news. Venue: The Alma, Wandsworth 499 Old York Rd, London SW18 1TF Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.