Eric Simanek, Texas Christian University
Shots of Knowledge: The Science & History of Whiskey
Host: Profs. Dudley and Hodge (History)
Prof. Eric Simanek
Robert A. Welch Professor of Chemistry,
Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Director of the IdeaFactory
Texas Christian University
Whiskey is universal. Its production is fascinating and embraces a broad spectrum
of disciplines. Whiskey serves as a convenient lens for looking at many of
the big ideas that unite the sciences and engineering. As a historical lens,
whiskey also provides a unique frame for the events that shaped America. Aimed
at the general public, Professor Simanek examines what makes whiskey so interesting
from both the production process and how it offers optimism that, indeed, things
are getting better.