The Insect Epiphany: How Our Six-Legged Allies Shape Human Culture
October 17 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
As part of the Wisconsin Science Festival and the 2026 Morrill Lecture Series: “A Revolution of Hope and Community,” this event features Barrett Klein, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse professor and author of The Insect Epiphany.
Insects surround us, fueling life on Earth as pollinators, predators, and prey, but rarely do we consider the outsized influence they have had on our culture and civilization. This presentation will explore how insect anatomy and habits inform how we live, work, create art, and innovate—from ancient etchings to avant-garde art, and from bug-based meals to haute couture. The Insect Epiphany proves that our world would look very different without them, not just because they are crucial to our ecosystems, but because they have shaped and inspired so many aspects of what makes us human.
In alignment with the goals of the Morrill Lectures, this event aims to grow knowledge and critical thinking around important scientific topics while sharing a spirit of optimism that we can all make a difference in our communities.
