the memory palace Episode 216: Awake
Apr 18, 2024
Exploring the craze of sleeplessness and endurance feats in mid-20th century America, the podcast dives into the haunting effects of sleep deprivation on a DJ attempting a world record. The chapter discusses the consequences of extreme sleep deprivation studies and teases upcoming events and promotions in the podcast.
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Peter Tripp's Wake-a-thon
- In 1959, DJ Peter Tripp attempted to stay awake for 200 hours.
- This stunt, done for publicity, charity, and science, was part of a wider trend of endurance feats.
Military Interest in Sleep Deprivation
- The military was deeply interested in the effects of sleep deprivation on soldiers' performance.
- The Korean War POWs' confessions, attributed to sleeplessness, fueled this interest.
Julian West's Study
- Psychiatrist Julian West observed Tripp's experiment, hoping to study induced mental illness.
- Tripp's initial motivation included achieving fame and financial stability.