Why Can't the Internet be Easily Shut Down Worldwide?

Summary

The transcript explores the intricate workings of the internet, emphasizing the role of underwater cables and potential vulnerabilities. It discusses how DNS servers function as crucial components, and how their destruction could complicate internet access. The conversation also delves into extreme measures for global cooling and their catastrophic implications, alongside the surprising ways humans consume meat. It culminates in an examination of partner selection influenced by genetic factors, showcasing a blend of scientific insights and humorous commentary on pain and relationships, leaving viewers pondering both technological and biological complexities.

Takeaways

• 🌊 95% of internet traffic relies on underwater cables, some reaching depths of up to 5 miles.
• 🔌 Cable theft can severely impact internet speeds; in 2013, a cable cut in the Mediterranean led to a 60% drop in Egypt's internet speed.
• 🌐 Access to the internet was recognized by the UN as a basic human right in 2011, emphasizing its importance.
• 🗺️ DNS servers act as a directory for the internet; if all 13 main servers were destroyed, users would need to manually enter IP addresses.
• ⚡ A nuclear explosion can create an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that disrupts electronic devices, potentially affecting the internet.
• 🌞 Solar superstorms can also cause massive disruptions to communications, as seen in 1859 when telegraph lines were damaged.
• 🌋 Volcano eruptions can influence global temperatures, demonstrating that natural disasters can impact climate significantly.
• 🐄 Humanity consumes 350 million tons of meat annually, highlighting the scale of meat production and its environmental impact.
• 🤰 Childbirth and injury to the groin are both extremely painful, but pain perception is subjective and varies among individuals.
• 🧬 MHC proteins influence mate selection; individuals are often attracted to partners with different genetic makeup, enhancing offspring immunity.

Q & A

What percentage of internet traffic goes through underwater cables?

About 95% of internet traffic goes through underwater cables that lie at depths of up to 5 miles.

How does cable theft impact internet speed?

Cable theft can lead to significant drops in internet speed, as seen in Egypt where a cable cut in 2013 resulted in a 60% reduction in internet speed.

What role do DNS servers play in internet functionality?

DNS servers act as a map for IP addresses, helping users connect to websites. If all main DNS servers were destroyed, users would need to manually enter IP addresses.

What historical event demonstrated the vulnerability of communication systems to solar storms?

The 1859 solar superstorm destroyed 62,000 miles of telegraph lines in Europe and North America, illustrating how geomagnetic storms can disrupt communication.

What extreme methods are discussed to combat global warming?

The script humorously suggests extreme methods like using nuclear explosions or volcanoes to reduce the planet's temperature.

How is meat consumption quantified in the script?

Humanity consumes about 350 million tons of meat per year, comparable to the weight of 1,000 Empire State Buildings.

What scientific basis is mentioned regarding partner selection in romantic relationships?

The script discusses the role of MHC (major histocompatibility complex) proteins, suggesting that people are attracted to partners with different MHC genes, as indicated by scent.

What is the humorous comparison made between childbirth and groin injuries?

The script presents a humorous debate on whether childbirth or a groin injury is more painful, concluding that both are intensely painful but subjective experiences.

How does cloud seeding with salt aim to mitigate global warming?

Geoengineers propose dispersing salt particles into the atmosphere to enhance cloud brightness, reflecting more sunlight and potentially cooling the Earth.

What absurd solution is proposed for cooling down the planet?

The script jokingly suggests buying a giant fan to cool down the planet, highlighting the absurdity of trying to 'blow up the sun.'