How Alchemy Worked

In this episode of "Stuff You Should Know," Josh and Chuck delve into the history and evolution of alchemy. They trace its origins from ancient China and India, where it was linked to the pursuit of immortality and health, to its development in Egypt and Greece, where philosophical and scientific elements were integrated. The discussion covers key figures like Zosimos of Panopolis and later European alchemists, including Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus, highlighting their contributions to the scientific method and chemistry. The hosts explore the alchemists' goals, such as creating the Philosopher's Stone and homunculi, and address the shift from alchemy to modern science, recognizing alchemy's role as a precursor to chemistry despite its eventual disavowal. The episode concludes with a listener mail segment, where a correction is made regarding a previous episode.