The Studies Show

Jonathan Haidt, a prominent psychologist renowned for his research on social media's effects on mental health, engages in a vibrant discussion on the troubling reality of our digital age. He examines how social media, particularly features like the 'like' button, has contributed to societal deterioration and mental health crises among youth. The conversation digs into complex debates surrounding causal versus correlational studies, shedding light on the intricate connections between social media use and well-being.

The podcast dives into the complexities of scientific publishing, exposing flaws in the peer-review process. It critiques predatory journals and paper mills that undermine research credibility. A discussion on the pressure to publish highlights how academic metrics can drive quantity over quality. The absurdities of the publishing industry, including high profits and paywalls, are explored. Lastly, innovative reforms like the Octopus initiative are proposed to enhance transparency and improve research integrity.

Is drinking alcohol good or bad? The discussion dives into conflicting studies on health benefits and risks, including the mysterious 'J-curve.' Personal anecdotes offer a humorous look at perceptions of drunkenness. They tackle the contradictions in media narratives about red wine, emphasizing critical thinking around health claims. The impact of legislation on drink driving culture and the enjoyment factor in drinking are also explored, all while blending humor with serious health discussions.

Delve into the science of brain maturation and its surprising implications for the legal system. Discover how countries like Scotland base sentencing on the idea that brains aren't fully developed until 25. Examine intriguing cases that highlight the clash between neuroscience and justice. Explore the gradual development of the prefrontal cortex and the need for a nuanced understanding of cognitive maturity. The conversation uncovers the fascinating yet complex relationship between brain function, behavior, and societal expectations.

The speakers dive into the cringe-worthy yet crucial experiences of sex education in schools. They reflect on how societal views on teenage pregnancy have shifted from the 90s to today's debates on declining birth rates. Critiques of the UK's sex education approach reveal cultural tensions and the importance of evidence-based practices. Personal anecdotes blend humor with nostalgia, showcasing the need for comprehensive sexuality education. Ultimately, they explore its role in promoting youth health and understanding in today's complex landscape.

Delve into the complexities of the marshmallow test and the evolving understanding of delaying gratification. Discover how the original findings fell short in later studies, sparking debates on methodology and interpretation. Explore the impact of socioeconomic factors on self-control and its correlation with future success. Humorous anecdotes highlight the struggle with self-control, while recent research questions traditional views. Join an engaging discussion on the interplay of confidence, culture, and even gentrification, all tied to the sweet yet sobering reality of self-discipline.

The hosts celebrate their first anniversary with playful banter and reflections on favorite moments. They dive into societal implications surrounding Ozempic, critiquing its media portrayal. Discussions tackle the classist tones in nutrition debates and the complexities of mental health perceptions. Misinformation and biases in public discourse are examined along with listener suggestions for future topics. The episode wraps up with fond memories and hints at exciting developments ahead, including a potential live show.

Air pollution is often linked to health crises, with surprising sources like gas stoves leading the conversation. The podcast dives into the troubling statistics surrounding air quality-related deaths, comparing it to smoking fatalities. It highlights the intricate relationship between air pollution and public health metrics. Additionally, societal behaviors in response to rising temperatures and ongoing challenges in deciphering causal links in health studies are discussed, reinforcing the urgent need for clear communication on these issues.

Exploring the irony of misinformation researchers spreading misinformation, critiquing the field as 'bullshit science'. Analyzing the impact of misinformation in society, from historic examples to modern social media consequences. Delving into how misinformation behaves like a virus, influencing beliefs and behaviors. Unpacking harmful effects of misinformation, linking to hate crimes and discrimination.

Tom and Stuart discuss the potential threat of asteroids colliding with Earth, drawing parallels to past catastrophic events like the dinosaur extinction. They explore the destructive capabilities of different sized asteroids, the rarity of collisions, and the importance of tracking these space rocks. The podcast also touches on asteroid mining, the potential global impact of disasters, and the ethical dilemmas of developing asteroid-deflecting technology.