Min-Maxing Human Decomposition

That's Absurd Please Elaborate · Oct 8, 2026 · 1h

This week, we bodily embrace spooky season by digging into the science of what happens when a body returns its borrowed flesh. From flesh-eating microbes and hungry scavengers to composting, cremation, and some surprisingly futuristic methods, Julian investigates the fastest ways for nature to reclaim our materials. Then, in typical Julian fashion, he ranks them by efficiency and cost-effectiveness, because who says decomposition can’t be optimized?

It’s the best time of the year, people!!!

QUESTION

Julian: "What’s the most efficient way to decompose a human body?" from Julie

Do you have an…