The Why Factor Podcast
The extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions
Episodes to download
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Boredom
Sat 5 Apr 2014
Why do we get bored and what does it say about how we engage with the world around us?
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Envy
Fri 28 Mar 2014
What is envy and why can it be dangerously destructive or make us strive for success?
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Coffee
Fri 21 Feb 2014
Why the production and consumption of coffee matters so much around the globe
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Homosexuality
Fri 24 Jan 2014
Why does homosexuality exist? Is it nature or nurture? Mike Williams and guests discuss
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Alcohol
Fri 10 Jan 2014
Why do so many people drink alcohol? And why do some struggle to control it?
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Running
Fri 3 Jan 2014
In the UK, running is increasing in popularity. So why are we running now more than ever?
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Nitrogen: Forgetting Fritz
Fri 27 Dec 2013
Fritz Haber harnessed nitrogen to feed billions, but was also the pioneer of gas warfare
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Cross Dressing
Fri 13 Dec 2013
Artist Grayson Perry, a train driver and a detective novelist on why they cross dress
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The Heel
Fri 29 Nov 2013
Where did the fascination with elevated footwear come from? Why wear high heels?
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Optimism and Pessimism
Fri 8 Nov 2013
Why do some people have a darker outlook on life while others have a brighter one?
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Burial
Fri 4 Oct 2013
Burial is a practice that’s been carried out for centuries – but why do we do it?
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Nostalgia
Fri 27 Sep 2013
Why do we look back and yearn for the past, or recall sweet memories of our youth?
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Why do we look the way we do?
Tattoos, trainers, jeans, hair, ties ... why?
