Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast

Empathic motivations for pro-social behaviours are unique to humans, or are they? Dr. Peggy Mason joins us to discuss empathy and pro-social behaviour in rats.

Advances in biology have revolutionized modern medicine, but they have also spurred many ethical and political issues. On this program, Prof. Jonathan Moreno discussed the politics of biology.

The electric car has seen some fals starts, but new technical advances and changes to the global environment are propelling the adoption of these vehicles. On this program, Jim Motavalli discussed the new developments in the electric car.

Good ideas are often overlooked, while bad ideas may flouirsh. How does one insure that the best ideas are used? On this program, Prof. John Daly discussed the skills of advocacy.

Understanding the fundamental forces of nature is one of the hallmarks of modern physics. However, mathematically describing these forces often results in the emergence of infinities. On this program, Prof. Frank Close discussed the infinity puzzle.

Although military might is often viewed as the primary method for national security, forging economic relationships may be more beneficial in the long run. On this program, Prof. Lloyd J. Dumas discussed the peacekeeping economy.

Mind reading is not something we have to worry about in our daily lives, but the day when we do have that worry may be closer than we think. On this program, Paul Root Wolpe joined us to discuss why we should develop legal and ethical frameworks for dealing with mind reading sooner rather than later

The world of arms trading continues to affect global political and economic affairs. Yet, few investigations have delved into the shadowy and corrupt world of global arms trading. On this program, Andrew Feinstein discussed this shadow world.

The literary world would be a much poorer place without the works of Kurt Vonnegut, but few know about the life story of the author himself. On this program, Charles J. Shields discussed the life and times of Kurt Vonnegut.

What makes some applications more useable and enjoyable than others? Gamification is a method for improving the rewarding aspects of any application and changing behavior. On this program, Gabe Zichermann discussed gamification by design.

Technology has changed all aspects of our lives, but perhaps underappreciated is the effect technological advances have on sports. On this program, John Greenburg discussed how technology is changing sport.

Plastic debris has become a substantial threats to the oceans in the world. Where does this pollution originate and what can be done to stop it? On this program, Capt. Charles Moore discussed the pollution of the oceans by plastic.

Modern physics may seem remote from our daily lives, yet the discoveries in the field have the potential to change how we view the world. On this program, Lisa Randall discussed how discoveries in modern physics shape the world around us.

The expedition of Vasco Da Gama are often overshadowed by that of Columbus. But, these voyages perhaps more than those of Columbus changed the course of history. On this program, Nigel Cliff discussed how Vasco Da Gama turned the tide in a centuries-old clash of civilizations.

The rapid changes in technology are straining even those dedicated to their development. How can the science of attention change the way we live, learn and think with these new innovations? On this program, Prof. Cathy Davison discussed the brain science of attention.

Digital technology has revolutionized the modern world, but are there downsides to its influence on our personal lives and culture. On this program, Prof. Mark Bauerlein discussed the digital divide.

High blood pressure and hypertension are major health problems, yet in many cases, diet ay be a better treatment than prescription medication. On this program, Marla Heller discussed the DASH diet action plan.

How are explanations of the world developed and how do we sort good and bad explanations? Is there a limit to our knowledge of the world? On this program, Prof. David Deutsch discussed the beginning of infinity.

Quantum mechanics may seem to be an intimidating topic, yet it is fundamental to understanding the everyday world. On this program, Prof. Michael Fayer discussed how quantum theory explains our everyday world.

The Apollo program is a landmark in the history of space exploration and perhaps the most successful mission of the series was Apollo 15. On this program, Ret. Col. Al Worden discussed the space program and Apollo 15.

The sense of smell may often seem to be expendable, yet it has a pivotal role in both our survival and hedonic enjoyment of food. On this program, Molly Birnbaum discussed the role of smell in our daily lives.

Why do some ideas thrive, while others rarely see the light of day? Is there a competition for ideas and are they selected in much the same way that evolution selects for succesful genes? On this program, Jonnie Hughes discusses memes and the Origin of Tepees.

The advent of new technologies has opened up a new avenue for scam artists. How do we protect ourselves against scams online and in daily life? On this program, Fred Claridge discussed tips for avoiding internet scam artists.

The universe is a large and mysterious place. How did it begin? How will it end? And, what are the steps along the way? On this program, Prof. Brian Cox discussed the wonders of the universe.

Food addiction may be a major cause of obesity. What are the causes of food addiction and how can they be overcome? On this program, Hedley Turk discussed why intelligent people are overweight.