2012: The Science Of The Maya Apocalypse

A mistaken interpretation of a calendar used by the ancient Maya of Mesoamerica has led to a popular notion that they predicted the end of the world on December 21st, 2012. Doomsday enthusiasts have imagined a whole host of possible grand finales for the human race, many of which are natural disasters of cosmic origin. This talk will explore the science behind many of the doomsday scenarios as well as the actual nature of the Long Count calendar of the ancient Maya.

Speaker: Bryan Mendez, Center For Science Education, Space Sciences Laboratory, Berkeley City College

Auditorium