Why Homo Floresiensis May Still Be Around with Dr. Gregory Forth

Why Homo Floresiensis May Still Be Around with Dr. Gregory Forth

Author: John Michael Godier August 26, 2026 Duration: 52:33

Why the Flores Hobbit May Still Be Alive...In 2003 on the island of Flores in Indonesia something was discovered that was both surprising and mysterious. A previously undiscovered hominoid related closely to modern humans. Termed at the time a hobbit, this species lived on Flores Island until modern humans arrived sometime around 50,000 years ago. The problem with the find is that skeletons of Homo Floresiensis are very sparse, with only nine individuals known, and most evidence coming from a single find site located in a single cave. It’s since been determined that Homo Floresiensis was an early species of Homo, but a sister species of homo habilis, as opposed to being examples of unusual modern humans. Just how long after the arrival of modern humans homo floresiensis survived is hotly debated, but it has been advanced that they may have still been around as recently as 12,000 years ago. That’s getting really recent for another hominoid other than homo sapiens. But that’s all based on limited paleontological evidence, what of evidence from anthropology?

The discovery of Homo floresiensis: Tales of the hobbithttps://www.nature.com/articles/514422a


Curiosity about the cosmos often starts with a simple question, and that's where John Michael Godier's Event Horizon finds its rhythm. Hosted by author and futurist John Michael Godier, this podcast delves into the profound and the perplexing at the edges of our understanding. Each episode builds a narrative, weaving together discussions on astronomy, astrophysics, and the latest space science news with broader themes of technology, history, and futurism. The conversations are grounded by special guests who bring expertise and diverse perspectives, turning complex ideas into engaging explorations. You'll find the dialogue moves from the concrete details of scientific discovery to the speculative implications for our future, all with a thoughtful and accessible tone. This isn't just a recap of headlines; it's a deep dive into the context and consequences of what we're learning about the universe. For anyone who looks up at the night sky and wonders about black holes, the potential for life elsewhere, or where our technology might take us next, this podcast offers a compelling space to linger on those big ideas. The production emphasizes clarity and depth, making even the most daunting topics feel within reach. Tune in for a regular journey to the frontiers of science and human thought.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

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