1440 Explores

David Nutt, a psychiatrist and professor at Imperial College London, delves into the intricate relationship between humans and alcohol. He reveals how alcohol affects the brain's neurotransmitters, creating buzz and hangovers. Edward Slingerland, a philosophy professor, discusses alcohol's historical role in civilization and social dynamics. They explore how early agriculture may have been driven by brewing needs and the potential of alcohol to lower social anxiety. The conversation balances alcohol's social benefits with its physical harms, urging listeners to reflect on their drinking choices.

Discover the hidden mechanics behind credit cards and how a simple tap leads to complex financial transactions. Learn about the fascinating history of credit cards, starting from the pivotal 1958 Fresno mailing. Uncover the intricacies of authorization and settlement, the impact of interest rates, and the role of merchant fees. Explore how generous rewards are funded and why they often come at a cost to non-reward users. Delve into the differences in credit culture between the U.S. and Europe, and find out how banks assess borrower risk today.

1440 Explores dives into the most fascinating topics of our time—why we dream, how AI thinks, the magic (and consequences) of credit cards, and more—blending science, history, and expert insights to make sense of the world. Produced in collaboration with Rhyme Media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.