

Science Weekly
The Guardian
Twice a week, the Guardian brings you the latest science and environment news
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Mar 14, 2024 • 19min
A waterworld with a boiling ocean and the end of dark matter? The week in science
Challenging the existence of dark matter with a new physics theory, while exploring a planet with a boiling ocean. Also, discussions on the impact of microplastics on health and the interplay of politics, free speech, and science in the UK.

Mar 12, 2024 • 18min
Why do we lose our hair as we age, and what can we do about it? – podcast
Exploring the personal and scientific aspects of hair loss, including societal perceptions and hormonal influences. Navigating treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, as well as hair transplants. Delving into hair cloning and stem cell therapies, along with tips for maintaining hair health. Lastly, focusing on acceptance and self-comfort amid hair loss challenges.

Mar 7, 2024 • 14min
What’s behind the rapid rise of cancer in the under-50s?
Explore the rise in cancer cases among under-50s, particularly bowel cancer. Scientists are studying factors like diet and lifestyle choices. Researchers are analyzing the impact of environmental and social factors on cancer risk. Learn about a Supreme Court ruling on IVF and upcoming episode details.

5 snips
Mar 5, 2024 • 17min
Classic older child? What the science says about birth order and personality
Exploring the stereotypes and science of birth order on personality traits, the podcast discusses the impact of birth order on individual characteristics and age effects. Insights on birth order, personality, and life outcomes are shared, highlighting the minor impact on intelligence and potential influence on career paths. The discussion also challenges the myth of birth order's impact on personality, emphasizing the significance of external factors like school and individual temperament in shaping behavior.

Mar 2, 2024 • 15min
The Guardian’s new podcast series about AI: Black Box – prologue
Explore the emotional journey of a woman named Hannah and her AI friend Noah. Delve into the complexities of human-AI relationships, societal impacts, and the challenges of social isolation during the pandemic. Discover the evolving world of artificial intelligence in this intriguing podcast series.

Feb 29, 2024 • 19min
The debilitating impact of tinnitus, and how a new app could help
Exploring the impact of tinnitus on mental health and quality of life, the podcast discusses a new app using CBT techniques to help sufferers. It covers the biological origins of tinnitus, coping strategies like CBT, and the importance of seeking professional advice and support groups.

Feb 27, 2024 • 16min
How green are electric cars?
The podcast explores myths and controversies surrounding electric cars, debunking misconceptions and discussing their environmental impact. It compares energy efficiency of EVs vs combustion engines and addresses range anxiety and charging infrastructure challenges. The speaker highlights the importance of transitioning to sustainable electric vehicles for decarbonisation efforts.

Feb 22, 2024 • 19min
Mistakes, fakes, and a giant rat penis: why are so many science papers being retracted?
Explore the rise in retractions of scientific papers, including cases of errors, misconduct, and even a giant rat penis study. Uncover the dark world of paper mills and bribery in academia, shedding light on the need for a healthier scientific publishing ecosystem.

Feb 20, 2024 • 17min
Nitazenes and xylazine: what’s behind the rise of dangerous synthetic drugs?
Social affairs correspondent Robert Booth discusses the rise of fatal synthetic opioids known as nitazenes in the UK, while toxicology specialist Dr Joseph D’Orazio highlights the emergence of xylazine in the illegal drug supply. They delve into the alarming increase in drug-related deaths, the dangers of these synthetic drugs, and the challenges in treating withdrawal symptoms.

Feb 15, 2024 • 15min
What apes can tell us about the origins of teasing
This podcast explores the teasing behavior of apes and humans, discussing its evolutionary origins and similarities. The speaker analyzes video footage of great apes to understand their teasing interactions. Teasing behavior serves various purposes, such as testing social bonds and honing social skills. The podcast highlights the significance of studying teasing behavior in different species to understand its playful patterns.