The Why Factor

Discover why our IQ scores have been on the rise, the impact of modern distractions on our intelligence levels, and the relationship between the Flynn Effect and economic growth in this intriguing episode.

Legendary newspaper editor Sir Harry Evans, journalist in exile Qaabata Boru, and Melody Martinsen of The Choteau Acantha discuss the survival of newspapers in the digital era. Topics include the importance of print media, challenges faced by independent newspapers, and the historical significance of local newspapers. They also touch on the balance between work and parenthood in journalism.

Authors Christy and Clare Campbell share their long-lasting attraction in marriage, while Dr. Anna Machin explains the science behind attraction, including facial symmetry, genetic compatibility, and the role of oxytocin in bonding. The podcast explores speed dating events, evolutionary perspectives on attraction, and the dynamics of long-term relationships based on shared values and beliefs.

Explore the nature of loneliness and its impact on individuals, from genetic influences to contagious feelings. Delve into the unique experiences of growing up under China's one-child policy and the efforts to combat loneliness through unique living arrangements. Discuss the role of social media in fostering or hindering connections and the importance of emotional relationships in combating loneliness.

Exploring the concept of safe spaces at universities, discussing free speech vs. protection from offense. Delving into the evolution of American childhood behavior and challenges in higher education. Examining safe spaces in stand-up comedy and addressing offensive behavior in educational settings.

Art copier David Henty, fine art expert Philip Mould, Beijing auctioneer Paul Dong, and art fraud specialist Colette Loll discuss the allure of copied art and the ethical dilemmas of forgery. The podcast explores the emotional significance of art, the issue of authenticity in the market, and the motivations behind creating fake art.

Former French model Victoire Macon Dauxerre and experts discuss the global obsession with thinness despite rising obesity rates. They explore the history of thinness in fashion, societal pressures on body image, cultural traditions of weight, and the harmful effects of extreme dieting in the modeling industry.

Exploring the historical evolution of fears related to robots, the challenges of designing acceptable robots with human-like features, the unsettling nature of close-to-human robots in the uncanny valley, and the cultural differences in perceptions of robots and artificial life.

Pakistani writer Raza Rumi, author Claudia Hammond, neuroscientist David Eagleman, and journalist John McCarthy discuss time perception. Topics include experiencing time differently based on emotions, the link between age and time perception, divergent views on time perception metaphors, and how memory creation influences our perception of time.

Jasleen Kaur, a young artist, discusses the significance of statues with Lucy Ash. They explore why societies immortalize individuals through statues, the motivations behind commissioning them, and the impact they have on populations. They also delve into the debate surrounding controversial statues like Cecil Rhodes in the UK and the 'comfort women' statue in South Korea.