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Watch the first lecture from the 1998 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures series where Professor Nancy Rothwell explores the fascinating world of human senses and bodily regulation. Discover how multiple sensors throughout the body maintain homeostasis and respond to environmental changes. Learn through live demonstrations including microscopic views of blood cells and Olympic champion Chris Boardman's cycling exhibition showing exercise effects on the brain and blood. Explore comparative biology as furry animal guests help demonstrate how similar sensory systems have evolved across species, including a practical demonstration with a sniffer dog named Buddy. Delve into the science of human perception, from basic senses like sight, smell, taste, and touch to specialized systems for detecting temperature, pain, and balance - all crucial mechanisms for survival.
