About this episode
John Anthony West presents revolutionary theories about ancient Egyptian civilization that challenge conventional archaeological timelines and suggest far greater antiquity for human achievement. West, whose groundbreaking research with geologist Robert Schoch on the Sphinx's water erosion patterns, argues the monument dates to at least 7000-5000 BCE, implying advanced civilization existed millennia earlier than academic consensus allows. His work explores sophisticated astronomical knowledge embedded in Egyptian architecture and the possibility that this wisdom was inherited from even more ancient civilizations. The conversation examines how mainstream archaeology resists evidence that contradicts established historical narratives, despite mounting physical proof of greater human antiquity. West discusses the advanced mathematical and astronomical concepts encoded in Egyptian monuments, suggesting their builders possessed knowledge that rivals or exceeds modern understanding in certain areas. The episode explores connections between Egyptian monuments, astronomical alignments, and advanced engineering that required sophisticated planning and execution capabilities. Art Bell and West examine the implications of accepting that human civilization is far older and more advanced than traditionally believed, challenging fundamental assumptions about human development and achievement. This groundbreaking research demonstrates how physical evidence can overturn accepted historical paradigms when examined with fresh eyes and interdisciplinary approaches.