Radiolab

Buttons Not Buttons

Mar 10, 2023

Dive into the quirky world of buttons, where they symbolize power, freedom, and even destruction. Discover the psychological tricks of non-functional elevator buttons and the intriguing story of Button Gwinnett, a lesser-known signer of the Declaration of Independence. Explore the chilling implications of the nuclear launch button, reflecting on authority and accountability. The hosts wrap up with a lighthearted look at the rivalry between buttons and zippers, adding a whimsical note to this multifaceted journey.

27:07

Creator website

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

Elevator Insights: History and Illusion

6min

The Hidden Legacy of Button Gwinnett

7min

Exploring Value and Listener Support

2min

Exploring the High Stakes of the Nuclear Button

2min

The Button of Destruction

10min

A Final Salute to Buttons and Their Zipper Rivals

2min

Tiny buttons have such a hold on us. They can be portals to power, freedom, and destruction. Today, with the help of buttons, we tell you about taking charge of the little things in life, about fortunes made and lost, and about the ease with which the world can end.

Confused? Push the button marked Play.Special thanks for the music of Brian Carpenter's Ghost Train OrchestraOur newsletter comes out every Wednesday. It includes short essays, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Sign up (https://radiolab.org/newsletter)!Radiolab is supported by listeners like you. Support Radiolab by becoming a member of The Lab (https://members.radiolab.org/) today.Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @radiolab, and share your thoughts with us by emailing radiolab@wnyc.org

Leadership support for Radiolab’s science programming is provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation Initiative, and the John Templeton Foundation. Foundational support for Radiolab was provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.