According to an old urban myth, a frog suddenly dropped in boiling water will instantly leap out to safety. But if the water is tepid and gradually heated, the oblivious frog will slowly boil to death. This process is a metaphor for human psychology — especially when it comes to ecological decline.  

Over time, gradual changes can make unprecedented catastrophes feel normal. 

This week, we’re bringing you stories about revolutionary attempts to reverse these abnormalities — from resurrecting extinct species to unlearning the colonial mindset.  

It’s the fifth episode of Not Natural, a series about the tension between the natural and the artificial. These stories were produced for the Science Galley’s new exhibition — Not Natural. It’s open now and includes a listening station where you can hear work from our students.   

Featuring stories by Simon Sinnot, James Italia-Prasad, Liliana Jaques, and Zuva Goverwa.