Science vs Pseudoscience / Alien vs Archaeologist! | Talk

Find out about the differences between science and pseudoscience. How much truth is there in archaeological conspiracy theories?

Join Jack Rogers, PhD student in the Department of Archaeology at the University of Southampton, for a talk on science vs pseudoscience and their differences!

Jack's research focuses on analysing pseudoarchaeology and conspiracy theories, examining their validity and their effects on archaeological material. The research explores questions such as the difference between science and pseudoscience, and whether some popular conspiracies contain any element of truth.

Ideas about lost civilisations with advanced technology or aliens visiting ancient societies are undeniably fun, creative, and compelling stories - but are they real? At what point does an idea or theory cease to be scientific? These are some of the questions currently being investigated. Whilst also looking into the grittier histories behind some of these stories, the shortcomings of academics through time, and highlighting narratives that audiences may be unaware of.

You will leave with a clear understanding of why it is important to question both academic and non-academic theories, while gaining insight into the key differences and advantages that science has over its pseudo-version. And although ancient societies didn't have spaceships or lasers, their achievements remain no less remarkable!

Venue: Lecture Theatre B, Building 65 (Parkes), Avenue Campus

Suitability: Ages 16+

Check-in: from 6pm, just outside the Avenue Cafe in front of the side entrance from the car park to Building 65.

PLEASE NOTE: a few additional tickets will be available on the day at the ticket desk, on a first-come-first-served basis.

Accessibility: Venue has full wheelchair access and hearing loop is available. Priority seating for deaf, hard of hearing and visually impaired in the first front row. If you require additional support, please ask a member of the Festival team on site. For more information on accessibility in Building 65, please refer to the University of Southampton's Accessible website

This event is organised by the School of Humanities and is taking place as part of Southampton Science and Engineering Festival (SOTSEF), 6th - 15th March 2026.

Please contact the event organiser through festival@soton.ac.uk if you have any questions regarding the event you are booking.

Visit the Southampton Science and Engineering Festival's official website at www.sotsef.co.uk to find out the full programme of free live events and activities.

You can also follow #SOTSEF on social media to stay up to date with upcoming events and resources.