A list of curious facts
One: Did you know that a Czech playwright named Karel Čapek coined the word ‘robot’ for artificial men in his 1921 play titled ‘Rossum’s Universal Robots’—staged exactly 100 years ago? The reason: ‘roboti’ is the Czech word for serf or forced labourer. The Guardian has more on Čapek and his play.
Two: A newly unearthed 11th/12th century Buddhist monastery in Bihar was led by a nun named Vijayashree Bhadra—and she was supported by Mallika Devi, queen of the Pala Empire. Smithsonian has details.
Three: Did you know, gentlemen, that there is an optimal angle and distance that determines whether or not you suffer splashback when you pee into a toilet? Also: there is an organisation called ‘Splash Lab’ that is dedicated in determining these exact coordinates for you. Also: if you prefer the text version, Mel Magazine has more. But be assured the vid below is very PG.
Four: Did you know there is such a thing as ‘hate-wearing’ clothes? As per the New York Times, “A hate-wear is when you put on the clothing even though — because? — it makes you feel bad. Neither stylish nor particularly comfortable, yet constantly in rotation.” Hmm, so not our worn out nightie with way too many holes… coz we be loving that!
Five: Swinhoe’s softshell turtle aka the Hoan Kiem turtle aka Yangtze giant softshell turtle is the most endangered turtle in the world. There is only one known male—and he seemed doomed to be the last of his kind until scientists discovered a female in Vietnam! Well, she’s certainly a beauty! The Guardian has the story.