Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Brenda Wineapple, a renowned author known for her engaging historical narratives, delves into the riveting 1925 Scopes trial. She discusses how this landmark case exposed deep societal anxieties over the clash between evolution and religious beliefs in education. The conversation highlights the trial's media coverage and its enduring relevance today, as well as the complex figure of Clarence Darrow, who navigated moral and constitutional dilemmas. Wineapple also reflects on the cultural upheaval of the era, drawing parallels to current debates in science and education.

Join neuroscientist and musician Daniel Levitin as he explores the profound impact of music on our emotional well-being. Discover how music acts as a therapeutic tool for chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease, enhancing movement and mood. Levitin also shares fascinating insights on music's role in Alzheimer's, exemplified by artists like Tony Bennett. Additionally, he discusses the connection between music, memory, and genuine conversations, highlighting the importance of empathy and active listening in our social interactions.

Julie Sedevy, author of "Linguophile," joins the conversation to explore the fascinating relationship between language and human development. Topics range from how babies begin tuning into their mother’s language in the womb to male fruit flies singing to attract mates. The discussion also delves into the impact of language on identity formation in childhood and the resilience of vocabulary throughout life. Expect insights into communication challenges faced by physicists and thought-provoking reflections on the art of writing.

Marcia Bjornerud, a professor of geology at Lawrence University and a lyrical writer, delves into the fascinating narratives embedded in rocks. She emphasizes geology as a vital tool for understanding Earth's 3.5 billion-year history and our identity. Bjornerud highlights Earth's uniqueness and the artistic creativity of geological processes. She discusses the role of continental shelves as archives of our planet's climate and the interconnectedness of geological events with life evolution. Her insights inspire a deeper appreciation for nature's stories.

So much of our communication is spontaneous and yet we never really learn or are taught how to do it well – we’re just expected to do it. How to avoid being tongue-tied, whether when called upon to give an impromptu speech or when sitting next to a stranger at a dinner party.

Dean-David Schillinger, Chief Resident Physician at San Francisco General Hospital and author of 'Telltale Hearts', discusses the transformative power of patient stories in healthcare. He emphasizes that understanding a patient's narrative can lead to better diagnoses than tests alone. Schillinger highlights the urgent need for empathy in medicine, especially for marginalized communities. He also advocates for enhancing patient interactions and prioritizing primary care in medical education, aiming for a more compassionate and effective healthcare system.

Kristin Andrews, a philosopher and expert in animal minds, explores the intriguing question of consciousness across species, from invertebrates to mammals. She challenges conventional views, arguing that many creatures, including dolphins and even worms, may possess awareness. The discussion raises ethical implications for how we treat these beings and examines complex animal communication, such as that of Indian monkeys involved in trade. With insights into the nature of consciousness and its connection to human-animal relationships, this conversation invites listeners to rethink their views on sentience.

Good analogies led to cheaper cars and Apple computers; bad ones to lives wasted and lost. And while puns might not always make you smile (or grimace), they helped pave the way for written language.

Jasmin Graham, a marine biologist and founder of Minorities in Shark Science (MISS), shares her inspiring journey from a disillusioned graduate student to a passionate advocate for sharks. She emphasizes the critical need for shark conservation and the vital role these creatures play in ocean ecosystems. Jasmin discusses the importance of diversity in marine research and highlights the invaluable knowledge shared by Black fishermen. The conversation also dives into the unique charms of bonnethead sharks and the fascinating anatomy of hammerheads, blending science with storytelling.

For most of us who live in the “tame” modern world, a reminder of how we can refresh ourselves by experiencing the wild world – even the wild world of our backyard or city streets.