Inspiration Forum

Anthropocene? No, the World Belongs to Microorganisms. Microbiologist Monika Cahová on How Organisms Invisible to the Naked Eye Control Us

They were here long before us and will be here long after us—microorganisms, without which we would not survive. But what do we really know about them? And more importantly, what don't we know? In this recording of the debate, you will gain insight into the current understanding of the importance of the microbiome, and debunk the myths that surround it. How does the microbiome contribute to the development of diseases? Are antibacterial soaps really that beneficial? And is it possible to "never touch bacteria again"? Which claims are supported by science and which are just a marketing ploy?

Microbiologist Monika Cahová took visitors to last year's Inspiration Forum on a journey through the history of microbiology and talked about how essential it is to coexist with our smallest cohabitants, the inhabitants of our own bodies. Understanding the microbiome means understanding ourselves, while learning something new every day.

The podcast is presented by neuroscientist and science journalist Pavla Hubálková.

The episode was released on 13.8.2025