How the way we borrow and lend money is changing Read more
now playing
Debt
How the way we borrow and lend money is changing
Nitrogen: Forgetting Fritz
Fritz Haber harnessed nitrogen to feed billions, but was also the pioneer of gas warfare
Running
In the UK, running is increasing in popularity. So why are we running now more than ever?
Alcohol
Why do so many people drink alcohol? And why do some struggle to control it?
Masks
Tracing the power and use of masks and what they mean for us culturally
Homosexuality
Why does homosexuality exist? Is it nature or nurture? Mike Williams and guests discuss
Touch
How do different cultures view physical contact in everyday life?
Adolescence
Why is adolescence so difficult?
Trees of Life
Why are our feelings about trees so mixed? Mike Williams explains
Coffee
Why the production and consumption of coffee matters so much around the globe
Privacy
Why is privacy so important to us?
Given Names
Everyone has one, but what do names say about us?
Family Names
Could your last name determine your career? Mike Williams explains
Dance
Why does movement move us?
Envy
What is envy and why can it be dangerously destructive or make us strive for success?
Boredom
Why do we get bored and what does it say about how we engage with the world around us?
Racism
Why are people racist and judged by the colour of their skin?
Horoscopes
Why do we read horoscopes?
Luck
Does luck exist and does believing in luck help or hinder us in life?
The Kiss
Why do humans kiss?
Sticky Songs
What makes snippets of popular songs go round and round in our heads?
Symmetry
Why does symmetry exist and why do we see such beauty in it?
Competition
Why are we competitive? Is it a natural instinct?
Diplomacy
How to get ahead in diplomacy, from negotiations to polite language and secret code words
The Fool
Mike Williams asks why the fool or jester has been an important figure in many cultures
Why Eye Contact is Important
Why is making eye contact so important?
Accents
What do our accents say about us? Why do they matter?
World War One: Patriotism
The power of patriotism from WW1 to today and truths and myths of the modern nation state
World War One: National Pride
Why are we so drawn to symbols of statehood, and how can leaders use that loyalty?
Coincidence
What is coincidence and why do we attach meaning to it?
The Apology
Why do we say sorry – and what do we really mean by it?