The Studies Show

This discussion dives into the perplexing phenomenon of collider bias in health studies. It reveals surprising findings, like hospitalized COVID patients who smoke showing better outcomes. The hosts explore how obesity may correlate with improved survival rates in chronic diseases, challenging conventional wisdom. With humor, they tackle misleading correlations in both health research and sports, emphasizing the importance of context. The episode further questions the validity of standardized testing in predicting success, shedding light on deeper insights into merit and health.

The discussion kicks off with the controversial topic of water fluoridation, tackling claims about its potential impact on children's IQ. Humor and skepticism abound as various studies are examined, questioning the necessity and safety of fluoride in drinking water. The hosts don't stop there; they dive into dental health practices—flossing, regular check-ups, and the evolving landscape of dental care, highlighting the challenges of misinformation in health debates. Expect a mix of light-hearted banter and serious insights on public health!

The hosts tackle the growing phenomenon of adult ADHD, humorously navigating the common symptoms like distractibility and disorganization. They discuss celebrity ADHD revelations and the fine line between genuine cases and potential fakes. As awareness rises, they emphasize the need for a scientific understanding rather than mere self-diagnosis. Personal insights from individuals with ADHD bring a deeper perspective, challenging superficial narratives and highlighting the complexities of personality and potential in the ADHD journey.

The hosts dive into the impact of government funding on science, especially in light of the US election. They discuss the anxiety within the scientific community over potential budget cuts and the balance between politics and research integrity. The financial returns from science investments are examined, revealing how £1 spent can yield significant returns. The conversation also touches on the influence of political agendas on public health and research funding, emphasizing the necessity of rigorous economic assessments.

Dive into the spooky realm of psychic mediums and parapsychology! The hosts explore the quirky history of spiritualism, including the tension between science and belief during the Victorian era. They humorously dissect mediums' techniques like cold reading while examining a 2022 Italian study on empathy and mediumship. With playful banter and personal anecdotes, they also touch on the emotional vulnerabilities of those seeking closure. Join in for a Halloween treat filled with skepticism, laughter, and the mysteries of the afterlife!

The legacy of the Stanford Prison Experiment comes under scrutiny after the passing of Philip Zimbardo. Conversations delve into how situational factors can provoke normal individuals to commit acts of cruelty. The psychological transformations of participants are dissected, highlighting the risks of authority and role assignment. Ethical concerns surrounding the experiment raise questions about its validity and influence. Additionally, parallels are drawn between this historical study and contemporary issues in power dynamics and morality.

Surrogacy sparks heated debates and personal stories. The hosts dissect the emotional intricacies of childbirth and the societal backlash surrounding surrogacy practices. They explore traditional versus gestational methods, highlighting the lack of genetic ties and evolving ethical dilemmas. The complexities of maternal bonds and child development are examined through a feminist lens. Controversies around skin-to-skin contact after birth are also discussed, questioning the validity of mainstream claims. It's a deep dive into an often-misunderstood topic.

What’s the secret of living to 100? Well, it might be living in a “Blue Zone”: one of the handful of places around the world where there are apparently loads of centenarians. Except, as has been argued recently, Blue Zones might be a load of nonsense.In this epside of The Studies Show, relative spring chickens Tom and Stuart look at some of the recent controversies in demography. Is there a limit to the human lifespan? Did someone really live 122 years? And how could researchers not have noticed the glaring problems with the whole idea of Blue Zones?The Studies Show is brought to you by our new sponsor: Semafor. They’re a purveyor of high-quality newsletters offering in-depth information in digestible chunks (and they happen to be Tom’s employer). This week, we looked at Semafor Technology, in which Reed Albergotti interviewed will.i.am on AI and the future of music.Show notes* “Millions Now Living Will Never Die”* Nature paper on “Evidence for limits to the human lifespan”* Stuart’s response letter* Saul Newman’s critique* Guardian article and Retraction Watch article on the resulting controversy* 2020 New Yorker article on Jeanne Calment, the 122-year-old woman* 2004 paper on “Blue Zones”; 2013 paper* Blue Zones website and “Live to 100” cookbook* Blue Zones food guidelines* Saul Newman’s paper (2024 version) critiquing Blue Zones and supercentenarian research* Saul Newman wins the Ig Nobel PrizeCredits* The Studies Show is produced by Julian Mayers at Yada Yada Productions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestudiesshowpod.com/subscribe

Discover the looming threat of superbugs and their potential to render infections untreatable. The hosts investigate the dramatic rise of antimicrobial resistance, including claims of millions of expected deaths. They challenge traditional beliefs about antibiotic use and emphasize the need for accurate data in combating public health risks. Amidst global health discussions, they highlight historical antibiotic impacts and the current fight against resistant strains, weaving in a touch of humor and pop culture references.

Ever questioned your sudden urge for a cat? Dive into the bizarre world of Toxoplasma gondii, the mind-bending parasite that some claim influences our behavior. Discover the skepticism surrounding its supposedly 'mind-controlling' effects and hear about the gruesome life cycles of parasites like the zombie ant fungus. Unravel the messy science behind small studies, including how cat urine might alter mouse behavior. Plus, explore surprising links between this parasite and mental health, entrepreneurship, and the ethics of animal testing in research.