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Radio lab is supported by the john templeton foundation, funding research and catalyzing conversations that inspire people with awe and wonder. Learn about the latest discoveries in the science of well being, complexity, forgiveness and free will at templeton dot org. Radio lab issupported by avacato in mattress. Avacado delivers a ward winning, certified, organic, non toxic mattresses at affordable prices. They offer easy financing with a firm, a no risk sleep trial and free shipping. Shop now at avacado mattress dot com.

All the world’s a stage. Or, sometimes it feels that way, especially these days. In this episode, originally aired in 2015, we push through the fourth wall, pierce the spandex-ed heart of professional wrestling, and travel 400 years into the past to unmask our obsession with authenticity and our desire to walk the line between reality and fantasy.

Thanks to Nick Hakim for the use of his song "The Light".

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