Why we sleep is a mystery. But there are scientists who endured ridicule for trying to unlock the secrets of slumber anyway starting 100 years ago.
They dared to suggest that sleep is crucial for good health. Discover Magazine contributor Kenneth Miller introduces us to four sleep pioneers who we have to thank for understanding sleep apnoea, the dangers of being tired and why teenagers can sleep until noon.
His book is called Mapping the Darkness: The Visionary Scientists Who Unlocked the Mysteries of Sleep.
Mapping the Darkness book cover Photo: supplied
