
The Studies Show
A weekly podcast about the latest scientific controversies, with Tom Chivers and Stuart Ritchie www.thestudiesshowpod.com
Latest episodes

Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 11min
Episode 69: Conspiracy theories
Dive into the psychology of conspiracy theories and what drives people to believe in them. Explore the blurred lines between conspiracy theorists and investigative journalists, and laugh along as absurd tales like flat-earthers and reptilian royals are unpacked. Discover how media ethics play a role in perception, and assess the socio-political implications of conspiracies in today’s world. Plus, unravel the connections between scientific fraud and belief systems, all while pondering the challenges of shifting entrenched views.

12 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 3min
Episode 68: Cannabis
This podcast dives deep into the complex world of cannabis, exploring its impact on mental health. Lists of significant studies reveal potential links between cannabis use and psychosis, particularly emphasizing genetic influences. The hosts also discuss how cannabis interacts with IQ, addressing various research findings and the challenges in this controversial field. Cultural perceptions of cannabis in society and music are examined, showcasing the evolving attitudes towards legalization. Personal anecdotes and humor enrich the conversation, making it both informative and entertaining.

Mar 31, 2025 • 9min
Invitation to The Studies Show LIVE
Catch the excitement as hosts invite listeners to a live show in London! They dive into the complexities of personality disorders, tackling myths around antisocial and borderline types. A notable guest joins for the first time, adding spice to discussions on controversial science. The conversation even touches on critical questions in gender medicine, spurred by a contentious article. With humor and insightful banter, it's an engaging peek into topics that spark both intrigue and debate!

Mar 25, 2025 • 11min
Paid-only Episode 18: Abortion
Dive into the intricate world of abortion and its emotional complexities. The hosts tackle the heated debate surrounding the impact on women's mental health, questioning whether abortion leads to lasting depression or if many view it as the right choice. They examine societal stigma, socio-economic factors, and various scientific perspectives. With a focus on the importance of nuanced dialogue, the conversation critiques sensational research and encourages a deeper understanding of emotional responses. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion!

49 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 57min
Episode 67: Seed oils
The podcast dives deep into the controversial world of seed oils and their alleged health risks. It humorously critiques the modern dietary reliance on these oils, linking them to the obesity epidemic. The hosts discuss the significance of monitoring metabolic health indicators like body temperature, while contrasting polyunsaturated fats with saturated fats. They also highlight gaps in current research connecting seed oils to inflammation. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of rigorous studies over popular narrative-driven claims.

16 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 66: Superforecasting
Explore the intriguing world of superforecasting, where accurate predictions come from understanding probabilistic language. Dive into Cold War tensions that shaped critical decision-making moments and learn why teamwork may not always enhance forecasting accuracy. Discover the nuanced skills that distinguish exceptional forecasters, while reflecting on the dangers of flawed research in Alzheimer's studies. Embrace open-mindedness and the power of Bayesian reasoning to refine beliefs and improve predictive capabilities.

Feb 25, 2025 • 52min
Episode 65: Havana Syndrome and mass hysteria
Discover the mysterious origins of Havana Syndrome, where US diplomats reported strange symptoms linked to alleged sonic attacks. Dive into the debate around mass hysteria and cognitive impairments that followed. Explore the implications of conspiracy theories and foreign sabotage, while also examining the fascinating connection between acoustic signals and human behavior. Finally, unravel the psychological dynamics of mass hysteria, revealing how collective belief can manifest as real physical symptoms in people, influenced by today's digital landscape.

Feb 18, 2025 • 11min
Paid-only Episode 17: The lab leak hypothesis
Five years into the COVID pandemic, the debate continues: Did the virus originate in a wet market or leak from a lab? Personal stories from the early days highlight the challenges faced by families, especially children. The podcast discusses the lab leak hypothesis, exploring its acceptance among scientists and the impact of controversial letters dismissing alternative theories. Complex intersections between science and politics are examined, particularly regarding gain-of-function research and its implications for public health.

27 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 15min
Episode 64: IQ
Delve into the controversies surrounding IQ, sparked by a playful Twitter exchange between a VP and a political podcaster. Explore the societal implications of IQ testing, its critiques, and how intelligence correlates with life outcomes and longevity. Discover studies revealing that a higher IQ might lead to a longer life. The podcast also humorously examines misconceptions about intelligence, mental health, and the Dunning-Kruger effect, urging listeners to rethink how we measure and value cognitive abilities.

13 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 1h 10min
Episode 63: Philosophy of science
Dive into the intriguing clash of ideas between Karl Popper and Thomas Kuhn, exploring how their theories shape our understanding of scientific inquiry. The discussion reveals the nuances of falsificationism and paradigm shifts, highlighting the importance of skepticism in evaluating evidence. Delve into the evolving landscape of scientific theories, the impact of the replication crisis, and the integration of Bayesian statistics for a modern perspective. The speakers humorously tackle the tension between established beliefs and the pursuit of objective truth in science.
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