This wonderful book takes a scientific look at the traditions surrounding Christmas. From flying reindeer to snow formation each Christmas related mystery is addressed with wit and scientific insight.
Can Reindeer Fly?
Most of us are sceptical about the idea of flying reindeer, and understandably so, but have you ever stopped to think where this enduring image of Christmas originated? Is the idea of these usually land-bound mammals taking to the skies pure fiction, or could there be a more scientific explanation for this particular animal being chosen to be the iconic helpers of Santa as he soars through the sky in his sleigh?
In chapter 3 of ‘Can Reindeer Fly?’ Roger Highfield discusses the possibility that the legend of the flying reindeer can be attributed to the mind altering properties of the fly agaric mushroom, which may also be linked to Santa’s choice of costume thanks to its distinctive red and white colouration. Highfield’s beautifully descriptive writing draws you into a world of snow, Lapp villagers, mysterious Shaman figures and intoxicated reindeer.
The Science of the Christmas Story
Besides the infamous reindeer, this book also takes a well researched look at the science behind several other familiar Christmas traditions, and at the Christmas story itself.
With reverence for the Biblical account of the birth of Jesus, Highfield uses the relevant verses from the Bible as a staring point for discussion of elements of the Christmas story which have a scientific component.
The star of Bethlehem is first up for discussion. Was this astronomical phenomenon actually a star, or can it be explained through the movement of an alternative celestial body?
Perhaps more contentiously the next topic discussed is the virgin birth, in a chapter entitled ‘Miracle’. Highfield deftly manages to reassure the reader that while the chapter is indeed a discussion of modern advances in reproductive biology, cloning and genetics, there is still room in the modern world for faith, belief and miracles.
The Science of Christmas Traditions
In the chapter ‘The Flame and the Tree’ the tradition of lighting candles is discussed. Highfield notes that this is also associated with other winter celebrations, such as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, and weaves the chemistry of combustion into the common practice of symbolically bringing light to the dark winter nights. This is followed by an informative section on photosynthesis, leaf shedding, and the symbolic importance of evergreen plants such as fir trees, holly, ivy and mistletoe.
Santa is clearly an important figure within modern Christmas traditions, and he does not escape scrutiny within this book. Highfield poses the question ‘Why is Santa so fat?’ and goes on to offer alternative suggestions to the idea that he simply eats too many mince pies.
Also discussed are the practicalities of Santa’s Christmas Eve journey in his sleigh. How does Santa manage to deliver presents to all those children, spread across the entire globe, in just one night? Highfield gently guides the reader through some fairly complicated mathematical calculations to determine how fast Santa would need to be travelling to accomplish his task. He then discusses some possible shortcuts which Santa may be employing using the theory of relativity and Star Trek style warp drive propulsion.
‘Can Reindeer Fly?’ also includes some interesting insights into the history of gift giving, relating this to examples in the animal kingdom of males presenting potential mates with gifts in order to win favour. The psychology of giving and receiving gifts and cards at Christmas is also discussed, along with some interesting facts about the economic impact of the holiday season.
This book is informative, entertaining, well researched and skilfully written, and really does make a great Christmas gift for those interested in science.
Sources
Can Reindeer Fly – The Science of Christmas by Roger Highfield (published 1998 by Metro Books).
Vicki Dennison - Vicki has a Ph.D, is a qualified Science teacher, and has a passion for inspiring young people.
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