Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Delve into the spine-chilling possibility that Hansel and Gretel could be more than fiction, as Tim Harford investigates claims of true crime origins. Discover how a satirical hoax led readers to believe fabricated evidence linking the tale to real events. Unpack the psychology behind our gullibility and the societal reactions to this deception. Explore the dark historical truths reflected in the beloved fairy tale and ponder important lessons about media credulity and the fine line between fact and fiction.

Malcolm Gladwell, the acclaimed journalist and author of Revisionist History, dives into chilling details surrounding his new series, The Alabama Murders. He explores the traumatic backgrounds of those involved, the courtroom failures that facilitate wrongful executions, and the dark reality of lethal injection's painful effects. Gladwell argues that capital punishment often serves revenge rather than justice and reflects on Alabama's complex relationship with the death penalty. His insights challenge our understanding of morality and state power.

In 1950s London, a bungled burglary leads to the tragic death of a police officer, involving 19-year-old Derek Bentley, who had a low IQ and child-like understanding. Confusing eyewitness accounts cloud the truth about his alleged involvement. Amid public outrage and political pressure, the British justice system unjustly sentences Bentley to death. The emotional fight for a posthumous pardon reflects a broader movement against capital punishment in Britain, culminating in a profound shift in public opinion and legal reform.

Maria Konnikova, a psychologist and author, joins Sheila Heti, a celebrated writer, to delve into the complexities of mistakes and regret. They explore how inaction often stings more than bold choices, revealing insights from poker about decision-making under pressure. Sheila shares her own blunders, including a costly mishap with a grant and an unexpected encounter with ketamine. Together, they reflect on the nuances of regret and its role in personal growth, underscoring how both momentous and minor errors shape our lives.

In this fascinating discussion, Sam Jones, a European security correspondent for the Financial Times, dives into the labyrinthine world surrounding Jan Marsalek, Wirecard's elusive COO. Alongside Paul Murphy, FT's head of investigations, they unpack the breathtaking scale of Wirecard's fraud and Marsalek's double life linked to Russian espionage. Jones explores modern spy narratives and their revelations about societal weaknesses, while Murphy shares his gripping encounters with Marsalek, including a cheeky bribe offer. This tale of intrigue weaves through espionage, charm, and corruption.

Step into the extravagant court of Louis XIV, where manners dictate life and death. François Vatel, the ultimate party planner, faces a monumental task: hosting a banquet for the king. As the scales of etiquette tip precariously, Vatel must navigate political intrigue and looming failure. With unexpected shortages and a failing spectacle, the pressure mounts. The tragic tale unfolds as one misstep leads to heartbreaking consequences, illustrating how the pursuit of favor can lead to ruin.

Join Arvind Ethan David, the creative force behind the audiobook Douglas Adams: The Ends of the Earth, as he explores the life and legacy of the iconic writer. He reveals how Adams used wit to address pressing issues like AI and social media. Arvind shares his personal journey from a young fan to a mentee, delving into Adams' innovative take on technology and conservation efforts. Discover how Adams' insights about extinction and empathy shape our understanding of humanity today, reminding us that practical action, not panic, is essential.

Explore the daring tactics of the Suffragettes as they fought for women's rights, including firebombing and hunger strikes. Delve into the chaotic moment when Emily Davison stormed the Epsom racetrack and the mixed reactions that followed. Unpack the complexities of radical protest and its impact on broader movements. Was Davison's final act a calculated protest or a tragic mistake? The podcast challenges the narratives around her actions and raises important questions about intent and consequences.

Dive into the world of art forgery as the notorious Eric Hebborn's audacious schemes unfold. Discover a dramatic tale involving a damaged da Vinci drawing that blurs the lines of authenticity. Explore the implications of deepfake technology in art and politics, revealing challenges in discerning truth. Hebborn's legacy raises profound questions about the nature of reality and trust. The narrative takes unexpected twists, intertwining courtroom drama with philosophical reflections on value and perception.

In this enlightening discussion, Katie Hafner, host of The Lost Women of Science podcast, sheds light on Frances Oldham Kelsey's heroic stand against thalidomide in the 1960s. The brutal impact of this drug on innocent lives is explored, along with the remarkable perseverance Kelsey showed in resisting industry pressure. Hafner emphasizes the critical importance of drug safety regulation and the lessons learned from Kelsey’s steadfast dedication to public health. This captivating story resonates with today’s ongoing debates about pharmaceutical ethics.