Science unscripted

The science stories that will actually change your day — and maybe make you laugh. Science unscripted is a podcast, radio show & YouTube channel driven by listeners. Hello from Germany :)

Why do men die earlier?

Five years. That's the (significant) difference between male/female life expectancies in human beings. If we'd like to change that (and shouldn't we try?), a new study suggests we look at the animals that reverse this rule, and how they do it.

10-16
30:00

Keeping score (or how to doom a relationship)

If you're keeping a mental list of what your partner 'owes' you, a new study suggests... maybe don't?

10-09
12:34

Does getting married make your life more satisfying?

On this week’s Science unscripted, a quantitative and qualitative glimpse into how harmful politics can be for relationships, a glimpse into the future of pregnancy, and an unabashed analysis of what marriage does for our feeling of satisfaction.

10-02
29:59

Huntington's disease: Curing the incurable?

On Science unscripted this week, we dissect the latest research on political violence. Also, we look into what scientists are calling a breakthrough for an incurable neurodegenerative disease.

09-25
30:00

Rate my professor? No thanks.

Think you're getting a fair review of a teacher from a rating site? Think again. Also, two studies shed light on who wakes up more when a baby cries... and the connection between 'stereotypes' and condoning political violence.

09-18
30:00

Painkillers, pregnancy & autism — what the research says

A metastudy on pregnant women taking the painkiller acetaminophen is at odds with the leaked 'autism report' commissioned by US Health Secretary RFK Jr. Also, why so many people avoid information about their own health, and a beautiful obituary.

09-11
30:00

Have you lived a good life?

If you read enough obituaries, you might unearth what people (and society) find important about existence. What do you want yours to say?

09-07
30:00

Could a spray 'end all viruses' in humans?

If a coworker coughs or your partner pukes... you know you're gonna get sick. Unless an antiviral does the same thing to humans that it did to mice (and hamsters).

08-28
30:00

What can you tell from a piece of poo?

We're back! (And a bit jetlagged.) Join us as we discuss a foul smell at Frankfurt airport and a potentially false "report" about a president's bathroom habits.

08-21
30:00

Cool people have six things in common. Do you share them?

A large-scale, global study has determined the characteristics that make people cool. Be warned: Trying to be cool is not one of them.

07-18
30:00

WE'RE ON VACATION!

Science unscripted will go quiet for a few weeks as Gabe & Conor — and hopefully you as well — enjoy the summer holidays. If you have an insight, epiphany or scientific question in the meantime (or you just want to forward a meme), feel free to send them to su@dw.com, or leave a comment for us at DW Podcasts on YouTube!

07-18
00:40

Pay attention to Peter Thiel's narrative

When an influential right-wing thinker tells a story of human history, 'stagnation' and the 'Antichrist'.. question his premise and maybe consult a narratologist.

07-04
30:00

How long do you want to live?

If you could take two pills (once a week) and live 30% longer, would you? Because a study on mice using drugs approved for humans suggests you may have to answer this question soon.

06-26
30:00

Is your life meaningful?

The answer might be no. But if you say yes ... then what exactly are you picturing when you say yes?

06-18
30:00

This one's for the short kings

Ever want to be taller? That might mean you're more competitive (and jealous). Also, if someone asked you which animal is the most abundant on earth... what would you say?

06-12
30:00

Is this pseudo-profound bull****?

Ever been a victim of 'pseudo-profound bull***'? A new study hints at why. Also, why you probably shouldn't be putting tape over your mouth, and a look at people follow rules... even when they don't actually have to.

06-05
30:00

Yes, men find female breasts attractive. But why?

This week on Science unscripted, what event(s) led to racoons setting foot in Germany? Why do our fingers prune up after a long bath? And a study conducted in Papua has bold claims about female breasts.

06-01
30:00

Cuddle much (in bed)?

The way you and your partner fall asleep says a lot about what's going on in your life. Also, a surprising new study suggests being healthy (heart-wise) isn't as beneficial as we thought for living a longer life.

05-22
30:00

Want to quit smoking or vaping? Play chess & run hard.

When you're trying to quit an addiction... what happens in that moment or two just before you fail? Researchers in Germany are trying to solve that. Gabe took part (sort of).

05-15
30:00

Be happier! (Play music!)

Doesn't matter how old you are — learning a new instrument (or trying) has all sorts of side benefits. Also, it's about time we understand the 'most misunderstood serious illness.'

05-08
30:00

S. Coleman

what is the name if the company featured?

06-25 Reply

Recommend Channels