Throughline

In this engaging discussion, attorney Julie Su, a fourth-generation San Franciscan, highlights the historical significance of the Wong Kim Ark case. She explores how Ark's fight for citizenship amid racial discrimination led to a landmark Supreme Court decision affirming birthright citizenship. The conversation dives into contemporary challenges surrounding the issue, discussing President Trump's controversial executive order and its legal implications. Su's insights provide a poignant reflection on identity, heritage, and the ongoing struggle for rights among immigrants in America.

Wando Achebe, a West African history expert at Michigan State University, dives into the tumultuous legacy of the Benin Kingdom and its treasures. The conversation reveals the gripping journey of looted Benin Bronzes to prestigious Cambridge. Achebe elaborates on the clash of empires, the complexity of colonial legacies, and the moral dilemmas surrounding the art's restitution. This narrative intertwines personal identity and history, igniting a deeper understanding of imperialism's impacts.

Delve into the meaning of cruel and unusual punishment as defined by the Eighth Amendment. Discover the historical roots of this principle, from King James II's reign to Enlightenment thinkers. Explore the complex legacy of landmark cases like Furman v. Georgia, which reshaped the conversation around the death penalty. Engage with debates on evolving standards of decency and the impact of societal changes on justice. The podcast challenges listeners to rethink the boundaries of human rights and the political landscape of punishment.

Ralph Nader, a legendary consumer advocate and activist, takes us back to the roots of the consumer movement. He discusses the perilous landscape of automotive safety and the corporate negligence he fought against, notably with General Motors. Nader sheds light on his collaborative work with Nader's Raiders, which inspired major consumer protections. He also reflects on the rising political power of business and the intersection of consumer rights with political advocacy during the Carter administration. This conversation reveals how organized citizenry can drive meaningful change.

Join neuroscientist Siddhartha Ribeiro, author of "The Oracle of Night," as he dives into the enigmatic world of dreams. He discusses the healing power of dreams in coping with grief and loneliness, supported by neuroscience's insights into memory and creativity. Ribeiro unpacks the integral role dreams have played throughout history, from influencing personal identity to prehistoric art. He also traces the evolution of dream interpretation, from mysticism to modern psychology, revealing their profound impacts on our consciousness and self-awareness.

Elie Metchnikoff, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist known for his groundbreaking work on the immune system, delves into humanity's obsession with aging. He believed aging was a disease and conducted fascinating research, including interviews with centenarians and exploring the health benefits of yogurt. The discussion touches on his meeting with Leo Tolstoy, contrasting views on aging, and the societal implications of extending life. Metchnikoff's relentless curiosity led him to advocate for longevity and challenge perceptions of aging, sparking a yogurt revolution that changed dietary habits.

Maura Weigel, an assistant professor and author of "Labor of Love," joins Andrea Wolff, author of "Magnificent Rebels," to delve into the intricate evolution of modern romantic love. They discuss the historical context of dating, the impact of Romanticism on our understanding of love, and how digital platforms have changed the landscape of relationships, often leading to feelings of loneliness. The conversation flows from philosophical insights on self-love to the cultural narratives shaping our romantic ideals today.

Emily Feng, an NPR correspondent, provides a deep dive into the heartbreaking story of Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur man searching for his wife and children detained by Chinese authorities. She unravels the emotional upheaval that families endure amid government repression and surveillance. Feng's journey also reveals the dark reality of detention camps in Xinjiang, exploring the struggles for identity and cultural preservation within the Uyghur community. This narrative sheds light on the broader human rights violations faced by this marginalized group.

Christina Kim, a reporter and producer on the Throughline team, teams up with Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist and author specializing in the psychology of smell. Together, they explore the profound connection between scent and memory, showing how aromas evoke powerful personal narratives. They share fascinating insights on how smells shape identity and recall, discuss the impact of losing one’s sense of smell during COVID, and highlight historical significance by connecting olfactory experiences to cultural narratives and trauma.

Anya Steinberg, an associate producer at NPR, shares insights from her reporting trip to Owens Valley on the creation of the Los Angeles aqueduct. The conversation reveals the impact of the aqueduct on rural communities, particularly Indigenous rights and water management struggles. Anya explores the historical and emotional ramifications of this water infrastructure, touching on traditional irrigation practices of the Paiute and Shoshone tribes. She also raises moral questions about climate change and resource allocation, offering a rich perspective on sustainability.