The Studies Show

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.

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.