NOVA Presents

How to Survive the Big One

October 15, 2026·25 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

We can’t predict earthquakes, but we can beat them.Geophysicist breaks down what actually keeps people alive when the ground starts shaking. From flexible buildings to early warning systems, John walks Hakeem through what separates cities that survive major earthquakes from cities devastated by them, and why the difference often comes down to policy not physics.Learn more about NOVA and visit our YouTube channel.--------------------------Guest Bio:John Shaw is the Harry C. Dudley Professor of Structural and Economic Geology at Harvard University, where he also serves as Vice Provost for Research. A structural geologist and applied geophysicist, he studies the faults deep beneath our feet, with research spanning earthquake hazards, energy systems, and carbon storage.

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