You may like this previous discussion here, 'On Cosmos Neil Degrasse-Tyson said: "Some historians believe the widespread use of lead was a major cause of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire" - What's the evidence?' . Especially replies from /u/Talleyrayand , /u/Tiako , /u/bonegirlphd , and Hilarious_Haplogroup.

But this is not to discourage more discussion -- further questions, data, and debate are welcome.