The discussion kicks off with a comedic look at the future of handshakes in a post-pandemic world. The hosts share personal stories and delve into the history and significance of this social custom, considering its evolution. They also explore humans' struggle with uncertainty, reflecting on how the pandemic amplified discomfort with unpredictability. Through engaging anecdotes, they highlight the potential joys of surprises, all while examining shifting societal norms in greetings and interactions.
The podcast explores the potential decline of handshaking in a post-COVID-19 world, prompting discussions on alternative social greetings and trust.
It delves into humanity's struggle with uncertainty during crises, emphasizing how this discomfort influences decision-making and social interactions.
Deep dives
The End of No Stupid Questions
The show No Stupid Questions has come to an end after five years of producing content, which included nearly 150 episodes co-hosted by Stephen Dubner and Angela Duckworth, followed by more than 70 episodes with Dubner and Mike Maughan. In response to listener sadness over the show's conclusion, the hosts decided to replay earlier episodes, starting with their very first one. This decision allows for revisiting the roots of the series while engaging the audience with questions and discussions that defined their style. The hosts express gratitude for their audience and share their experiences during the podcast's production, reflecting on the journey it has taken them through the pandemic and beyond.
The Handshake Debate
The hosts dive into the topic of handshaking, discussing its potential demise in a post-COVID-19 world. Angela Duckworth expresses her distaste for the handshake, citing hygiene concerns and past unpleasant experiences, while Stephen Dubner humorously critiques her unique style of hugging. They consider alternative greetings, such as bows or salutes, that could replace handshakes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust in social interactions even as physical contact evolves. This conversation taps into broader themes of social customs and how the pandemic has prompted reconsideration of long-standing practices.
Confronting Uncertainty
Uncertainty is identified as a core element of human existence, with the hosts contemplating why there is heightened anxiety about it during contemporary crises. They discuss how advancements in areas like meteorology have created expectations for better predictions, which increases the discomfort when faced with unpredictability. The conversation also distinguishes between different types of uncertainty and risk, noting that uncertainty often leads to stress and suboptimal decision-making. The hosts reflect on how society's approach to uncertainty has changed and the challenges of managing it collectively during such unprecedented times.
Changing Social Interactions
With the pandemic altering daily routines, the hosts discuss how people may adjust their social interactions - specifically, the types of engagements they will choose to prioritize. Angela Duckworth finds solace in reduced social obligations, indicating a desire to move away from forced interactions. They explore strategies for declining invitations politely while still expressing appreciation for the offer. This shift highlights a potential long-term change in how individuals value their social time and interactions moving forward.