Discover
Why We Do What We Do

Why We Do What We Do
Author: Abraham
Subscribed: 727Played: 15,615Subscribe
Share
© Copyright Context Media
Description
We explain popular and weird, little-known ideas in psychology. Whether you are a little curious about psychology, or a student, or even a professional, we have something for everyone.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.
523 Episodes
Reverse
Wearing a mask changes the way our social word interacts with us. This might mean access to rewards that we might not otherwise try to access, but the anonymity of a mask means doing so may be less likely to be met with punishment. Furthermore, our social environment affects our behavior. So, to answer the title: Yes kind of, but maybe not in the way you might think. Do you notice a difference in your behavior when you wear a mask? Let us know!RecommendationsAbraham: Is it Cake: Halloween (https://www.netflix.com/title/81927149)Shane: Mickey’s Not So Spooky Halloween Party (https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/?ef_id=Cj0KCQjwo63HBhCKARIsAHOHV_V0PneinWtYnLspJilv9P7_784jcvd2dzq-HM3jknkqsuYWHVMgMzwaAmUoEALw_wcB:G:s&s_kwcid=AL!5060!3!593608699132!p!!g!!disney%20trick%20or%20treat!1553406632!60136156558&CMP=KNC-FY26_WDW_TRA_FLR_W365_HTK_MNSSHP_General%7CG%7C5261213.RR.AM.01.01%7CM3EHNCC%7CBR%7C593608699132&keyword_id=kwd-314468353137%7Cdc%7Cdisney%20trick%20or%20treat%7C593608699132%7Cp%7C5060:3%7C&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1553406632&gbraid=0AAAAAD_M-kbg9jCdxyq5FrgNAwHob6cpK&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo63HBhCKARIsAHOHV_V0PneinWtYnLspJilv9P7_784jcvd2dzq-HM3jknkqsuYWHVMgMzwaAmUoEALw_wcB)Why is Shane's link URL so long? I know I can change it, but it is kind of funny to me that it is ridiculously long...Holidays (10/22/25):Smart is CoolWombat dayNational nut dayMake a dog’s day, dayNational caps lock dayNational coloring dayInternational stuttering awareness dayLeave a review dayScar appreciation dayChemistry weekFree Speech WeekLinks and References: https://www.thehorrordome.com/blogs/news/the-psychology-behind-halloween-masks-why-we-love-to-disguise-ourselves?srsltid=AfmBOoq9lYAWMiuPLp6WqM6IUe3mzzKiRqI8nuAuh_BYRp5Z0DJT3WE1https://studioforchange.com/how-halloween-can-help-us-understand-the-concept-of-masking/https://everydaypsych.com/unmasking-halloween-psychology/https://marciasirotamd.com/psychology-popular-culture/halloween-masks-unveils-secretshttps://medium.com/@ashrules2016/why-do-we-wear-masks-the-deep-appeal-of-halloween-costumes-56033852703ahttps://marciasirotamd.com/psychology-popular-culture/halloween-masks-unveils-secrets https://escholarship.org/uc/item/8hx6q5js https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1976-20842-001https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/512839/ https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/10/how-halloween-makes-kids-more-monstrous/382172/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Creepy pasta is/was a democratized way ot telling scary stories that are just on the edge of believability. They seem to have dissipated into various other formats over time. Yet, the brief story of creepy pastas is an interesting one and appropriate for the spooky season. What's your favorite creepy pasta?Join our member's club: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://www.creepypasta.com/https://medium.com/@lukewhenderson/what-makes-a-creepypasta-4e5ac00897bf Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
One of the most iconic and well-established horror stories in the world, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a masterpiece of literature. The talented director Guillermo del Toro will soon be releasing his vision of this story. So, in advance of his film, we discuss the author, how the story came to be, a brief synopsis of the plot, and some of the science behind the potential reality of such a thing. Tell us your favorite horror stories!RecommendationsAbraham: Warbreaker (book by Brandon Sanderson; https://www.brandonsanderson.com/blogs/blog/warbreaker-introduction)Shane: The Long Walk (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10374610/)Holidays (10/15/2025):Blind Americans Equality DayBRA Day USABreast Health DayGlobal Dignity DayGlobal Handwashing DayHagfish DayI Love Lucy DayLove Your Body DayNational Cheese Curd DayNational Fossil DayNational Grouch DayNational Mushroom DayNational Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness DayNational Pug DayNational Take Your Parents to Lunch DayWhite Cane Safety DayBone Joint Health Action WeekImprove Your Home Office WeekInfection Control WeekMediation WeekPet Peeve WeekSchool Lunch WeekTeen Read WeekLinks and References: https://blog.sciencemuseum.org.uk/the-science-behind-mary-shelleys-frankenstein/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6492819/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6174037/https://www.ncl.ac.uk/press/articles/archive/2016/01/headtransplants/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9805622/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780444632876000099https://daily.jstor.org/will-reanimating-dead-brains-inspire-the-next-frankenstein/https://askabiologist.asu.edu/frankenstein-physiologyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
We have a fascination with assigning meaning to various numbers. Actually, many cultures enjoy assigning meaning to numbers as well. In western traditions, we have a particularly special number that is the most evil: 666. We explore how this number came to be associated with the Devil and the why its not. But hey, I guess it is now. Get ad-free episodes and help us be a show: Patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/666.htmhttps://academic.oup.com/jts/article-abstract/69/1/309/4917823?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=falsehttps://www.britannica.com/topic/number-of-the-beasthttps://www.fusionglobal.org/connections/why-is-666-the-number-of-the-beast/?srsltid=AfmBOopwGFHFRt_D306RTVF_RBvOthZFzPAtxpg3Y6W3FlyOH2JY30sahttps://uscatholic.org/articles/202310/glad-you-asked-what-is-666-in-the-bible/https://medium.com/illuminations-mirror/this-symbolic-number-has-opposite-meanings-in-different-cultures-bdb891d04547https://www.britannica.com/topic/gematriahttps://www.gematrix.org/?word=dondrumpfDon Drumpf = 666Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Some spooky topics are geographically creepy. Arguably, the most famous scary geography is lovingly called The Bermuda Triangle. This portion of the world is credited with a supernatural ability to vanish airplanes and ships... out of the thousands that use this as a shipping route. We dig into the history that inspired the mythical lore attribute to this portion of ocean. Despite its infamy, insurance happily covers shipping vessels that traverse the curious Bermuda Triangle. Recommendations:Abraham: “Psych 3: This is Gus” (https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/movies/psych-3-this-is-gus/4695aa38-6632-3b3f-aa14-9edf3b70d24a)Shane: Atomic Rule - With Skull Crushing Force EP (https://open.spotify.com/album/6ybCbYsqHt3PT974rC6Mt4?si=QkBxu8MRRtOBMad1v6i3Og)Holidays (10/08/2025):American Touch Tag DayBring your Teddy Bear to Work DayBullying Prevention DayDyslexia DayEmergency Nurses DayInternational Day for Natural Disaster ReductionInternational Lesbian DayInternational Top Spinning DayLatina Women’s Equal Pay DayNational Children’s DayNational Fluffernutter DayNational Hydrogen and Fuel Cell DayNational Curves DayNational Pet Obesity Awareness DayNational Pierogi DayStem Cell Awareness DayWorld Octopus DayActive Aging WeekAnimal Welfare WeekCephalopod Awareness WeekDeath Penalty Focus WeekGreat Books WeekMystery Series WeekTruffle Days in CroatiaWorld Space WeekLinks and References: https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/i-survived-a-trip-to-the-bermuda-triangle/https://www.history.com/articles/bermuda-trianglehttps://travel.earth/what-is-the-bermuda-triangle-all-you-must-know/https://www.marinalife.com/articles/the-mystery-of-the-bermuda-trianglehttps://www.gotobermuda.com/inspiration/article/legends-lore-bermuda-trianglehttps://centerforinquiry.org/news/solving-the-mystery-of-the-bermuda-triangle-in-skeptical-inquirer/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/bermuda-triangle-mystery-solved-latest-theories-dr-karl-kruszelnicki-debunked-unexplained-disappearances-ships-planes-aeroplanes-vanish-conspiracy-lost-flight-19-alien-abduction-atlantis-methane-gas-vincent-gaddis-a7861731.html https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/unexplained-phenomena/10-unsolved-mysteries-that-have-been-solved.htm?s1sid=wqdp2epa7vz7u29d8v03h2hg&srch_tag=jqpeigono5nhpzyajtpkqf5577cv72bq#pt2 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
This is our first Halloween mini of 2025! RIP is a well-wishing, a command, and an indication of your relationship to person or idea being bid farewell. We break down the history, meaning, and language functions of using RIP. Requiescat in Pace!Help us keep doing our thing! Patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://biblehub.com/q/what_does_'rest_in_peace'_(rip)_mean.htm#:~:text=Those%20contemplating%20life's%20meaning%20find,Conclusionhttps://www.dictionary.com/e/pop-culture/rest-in-peace/https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/does-rest-in-peace-rip-have-a-christian-origin.htmlBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Welcome to our annual month of creepy topics! We are kicking off this year's selection with an overview of various conceptuatlizations of Hell from the perspectives of different religions and denominations. How common is the idea of Hell and why do so many traditions embrace this idea?We are excited to get started!RecommendationsAbraham: Shrinking (https://tv.apple.com/us/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs) Shane: 28 Years Later (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10548174/)Holidays (10/01/25):Happy spooky season, folks!Balloons Around the World DayCD Player DayHomemade Cookies DayInternational Coffee DayInternational Day of Older PersonsInternational Music DayInternational Raccoon Appreciation DayLess Than Perfect DayNational Black Dog DayNational Book It DayNational Hair DayNational Pumpkin Seed DayPudding Season BeginsVegan Baking DayWilly Wonka DayWorld Vegetarian DayNational Chimney Safety WeekNational Drive Electric WeekNational Fall Foliage WeekNational Hispanic Heritage WeeksBreast Cancer Awareness MonthAIDS Awareness MonthLGBT History MonthNational Cookie MonthLinks and References: https://youtu.be/fNkyPFS5vTg?si=AzPnUdBeGBYG_WVBhttps://foundations.vision.org/hell-origins-idea-626https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/heaven-hell/ https://www.faithonview.com/what-is-hell/ https://bigthink.com/high-culture/brief-history-hell/ https://doctorspaghetti.org/heaven-and-hell-the-pastafarian-view/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
You have probably heard of white noise, but there are a variety of noise patterns that have been assigned a color. Some have proposed hypothetical benefits of these various sound patterns ranging from sleep or focus to mental health conditions. We take a scalpel and scientifically remove the fluff. Tell us what colored sounds you prefer!Links and References: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/brown-white-pink-what-different-colors-of-noise-mean-and-how-they-can-help-learning/2023/11#:~:text=What%20about%20other%20colors%20of,can%20do%2C%E2%80%9D%20Berlau%20said.https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/colored-sleep-noise/#:~:text=What%20color%20noise%20is%20best,works%20best%20for%20you.%E2%80%8B https://www.bettersleep.com/blog/a-complete-guide-to-colored-noise-exploring-the-sound-spectrum-in-colorshttps://youtu.be/auCj6O9DRbs?si=DZxd5k4Hf5JwOX1OBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
In the last episode, we outlined several specific propaganda strategies. We conclude this discussion by explaining some ways we can attempt to combat propaganda. Although propaganda can be a tool for good, it is often used nefariously, and we are well served to protect ourselves against those who would manipulate us. Did we miss anything? Let us know!RecommendationsAbraham: Between the Buried and Me “The Blue Nowhere”- (https://www.betweentheburiedandme.com/)Shane: Disney Food and Wine Festival (https://vegandisneyworld.com/2024/08/30/vegan-options-at-the-epcot-international-food-wine-festival/)Holidays (9/24/2025)Punctuation DayNational Mofongo DayBanned Websites Awareness DayFestival of Latest NoveltiesGallbladder Good Health DayKiss DayLash Stylists DayNational Bluebird of Happiness DayNational Cherries Jubilee DayNational Horchata DayNational Women’s Health and Fitness DaySchwenkfelder ThanksgivingBanned Books WeekChild Passenger Safety Awareness WeekDeaf Dog Awareness WeekFall Astronomy WeekLinks and References: https://disinformation-nation.org/how-propaganda-works/http://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691173429/how-propaganda-works?srsltid=AfmBOorUX3x7ZgsGZ1dyU_bt0OeTC-bnm_0maw2D3FZclD5sp65cJ4jehttps://sjdm.org/presentations/2020-Poster-Heyman-Schrum-Cassandra-Psychology-of-Propaganda.pdfhttps://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/1938/05/the-psychology-of-propaganda/654999/https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2044-8341.1941.tb00312.xpsychologs.com/the-psychology-behind-propaganda/?srsltid=AfmBOor4m2MZ7Rs4pqmagvFEui02ZN14zWIcPI7XZQ-pB4D4665LhIK6https://www.verywellmind.com/how-does-propaganda-work-5224974https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/insight-therapy/201702/the-con-propagandahttps://wwnorton.com/books/9780393881516 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Kintsugi is a Japanese tradition of repairing broken things rather than retiring them, and in doing so making them stronger. It has a nice metaphor for personal, social, and economic issues. We discuss the history, techniques, and metaphors of kinsugi. Join our club: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://mymodernmet.com/kintsugi-kintsukuroi/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zabQFbChhGM&t=18shttps://kintsugi-shop.com/what-kintsugi-teaches-us/#:~:text=Kintsugi%2C%20the%20art%20of%20imperfection,not%20be%20hidden%20or%20shamed.https://open.library.okstate.edu/introphilosophy/chapter/ship-of-theseus/#:~:text=The%20ship%20wherein%20Theseus%20and,it%20was%20not%20the%20same. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/pop-culture-mental-health/202403/what-kintsugi-can-teach-us-about-our-emotional-healthhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/aging-wisdom/202108/brokenness-and-beauty-what-the-art-kintsugi-can-teach-us Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Propaganda is remarkably effective at influencing your behavior, even if you don't recognize that it is happening. Being aware of its strategies can help prevent you from falling victim as much. But no one is immune. Propaganda is one of the ways conspiracy theories are born, for those extremely gullible among us. This issue inspires some passionate soap-boxing... although there is a lot more of that in part 2. Enjoy!RecommendationsAbraham: Upload (season 4; https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Upload/0R12OTGH71AFFIJKW1R4WQT90V)Shane: Wool by Hugh Howey (https://www.bookhampton.com/book/9780358447849) Holidays (9/17/2025)Citizenship DayConstitution DayInternational Country Music DayNational Apple Dumpling DayNational Monte Cristo DayNational Professional House Cleaners DayNational Rehabilitation DayNational School Backpack Awareness DayNational Table Shuffleboard DayTimes Up DayVFW Ladies Auxiliary DayWorld Patient Safety DayAdopt a Less Adoptable Pet WeekBalance Awareness WeekConstitution WeekMitochondrial Disease Awareness WeekNational Drive Electric WeekLinks and References: https://disinformation-nation.org/how-propaganda-works/http://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691173429/how-propaganda-works?srsltid=AfmBOorUX3x7ZgsGZ1dyU_bt0OeTC-bnm_0maw2D3FZclD5sp65cJ4jehttps://sjdm.org/presentations/2020-Poster-Heyman-Schrum-Cassandra-Psychology-of-Propaganda.pdfhttps://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/1938/05/the-psychology-of-propaganda/654999/https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2044-8341.1941.tb00312.xpsychologs.com/the-psychology-behind-propaganda/?srsltid=AfmBOor4m2MZ7Rs4pqmagvFEui02ZN14zWIcPI7XZQ-pB4D4665LhIK6https://www.verywellmind.com/how-does-propaganda-work-5224974https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/insight-therapy/201702/the-con-propagandahttps://wwnorton.com/books/9780393881516 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
A lot. Unless you have face blindness, you can remember a lot of faces. Is this all in the brian? We do our best to explain the research behind our ability to recognize a very large number of faces. Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://www.science.org/content/article/average-person-can-recognize-5000-faceshttps://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/computer-models-mimic-brain-s-ease-telling-faces-aparthttps://www.theguardian.com/science/2018/oct/10/how-many-faces-average-person-recognises-5000Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Once again, we have an idea that has mostly been bogged down in the septic tank of pseudoscience. There seems to be some therapeutic benefit to chiropractic care, but there's so much crap spread on top that it's difficult to find. We dig into the aspects of this that are worth saving vs throwing out. RecommendationsAbraham: Drop (https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-movies/drop)Shane: Strange Pictures by Uketsu (https://www.harpercollins.com/products/strange-pictures-uketsu?variant=42921568141346)Holidays (9/10/2025):Blame it on the Large Hadron Collider DayInternational Creepy Boston Dynamics Robotic Horse DayInternational Makeup DayNational Hot Dog DaySew Be ItSwap Ideas DayTV Dinner DayWorld Suicide Prevention DayDirect Support Professional Recognition WeekInternational Air Ambulance WeekLine Dance WeekMalnutrition Awareness WeekMinimally Invasive Surgery WeekNational Assisted Living WeekNational Biscuit and Gravy WeekNational Suicide Prevention WeekNational Waffle WeekSobriety Checkpoint WeekSubstitute Teacher Appreciation WeekLinks and References: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8915715/https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chiropractic-adjustment/about/pac-20393513https://www.jpsmjournal.com/article/S0885-3924(07)00783-X/fulltexthttps://ascentchiropractic.com/the-crazy-unadulterated-history-of-chiropractic-spinal-manipulation/https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/chiropractic-pediatrics-conference-features-anti-vaccination-ideology-as-usual/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8564978/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK91735/#:~:text=RESULTS%3A%20Twenty%20six%20fatalities%20were,have%20occurred%20after%20chiropractic%20manipulations.https://www.healthline.com/health/is-chiropractic-pseudosciencehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4326543/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
This is another exploration of bad idea history. At one point, humans got really into consuming and surrounding themselves with irradiated materials. This idea stands out because the origins can be traced back to a clear starting point and "logic." FYI: Don't consume or put yourself (or anyone else) near radium. We'll explain why.Become a member and support the show: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://search.library.wisc.edu/catalog/9912414468002121https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/what-is-radiation/ionising-radiationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Fast fashion is a business model that emphasizes extremely high volume, cheap clothing designed to only last a short amount of time. This strategy produces an staggering amount of waste, consumes mllions of tons of raw materials, and contributes more to climate change than all internatinal flights and maritime vessels combined. However, it also employs millions of people, boosts the economy, and provides affordable clothing around the world. We examine the human behaviors invovled and the forces that drive this endeavor.RecommendationsAbraham: The Faculty (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0133751/)Shane: Deftones - private music (https://open.spotify.com/album/1gmWnG5TeRj91Tdm2lpEvJ?si=O-TDMIOXTW-YwdA0xrYIlw)Holidays (9/3/2025):Global Talent Acquisition DayNational Skyscraper DayNational Welsh Rarebit DayPenny Press DayInternational Enthusiasm WeekNational Childhood Injury Prevention WeekNational Nutrition WeekNational Payroll WeekPlay DaysSelf-University WeekHispanic Heritage MonthNational Honey MonthNational Spinal Cord Injury Awareness MonthNational Suicide Prevention MonthLinks and References: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-explainers/what-is-fast-fashionhttps://earth.org/fast-fashions-detrimental-effect-on-the-environment/ https://www.aup.edu/evolution-sustainable-fashion-timeline https://www.vogue.com/article/what-is-fast-fashion https://www.homebyames.com/en-us/ho/closetmaid/ https://www.thesustainablefashionforum.com/pages/the-psychology-of-fast-fashion-exploring-the-complex-emotions-fast-fashion-evokes-in-consumers Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
We have very special relationships with our pets. We usually try to talk to them. Do they understand what we are saying? Do they know their names? We quickly explore what it means for our pets to "understand" us or to "know" their names. There are some things we know about this and some things we don't. Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktIgM1qN4Lohttps://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/can-dogs-understand-humans/https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/lifestyle/how-much-do-dogs-understand-humans/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
One could argue there are two ways of aggregating knowledge: by guessing or by verifying information. The current system for verifying is by checking one another's work through peer review, a process by which experts first review the quality of the work submitted for publication and only allowing information through that is rigorous in its method or arguments. This is not without its flaws, however. Bias and blinding (or lack thereof) can prevent legitimate science from being disseminated or too eagerly publish bad science that is favorable to the reviewers. We explain the ins and outs of the peer review system and some ways it might improve. RecommendationsAbraham: Sonora (board game: https://www.bluehighwaygames.com/sonora.html)Shane: Radical Care Issue #1 (https://tr.ee/VdAMZ8pUZF)Holidays (8/27/2025):Banana Lover’s DayJust Because DayKiss Me DayNational Petroleum DayNational Pots de Creme DaySlow Art DayTarzan DayThe Duchess Who Wasn’t DayTug of War DayWilling to Lend a Hand WednesdayWorld Rock Paper Scissors DayBe Kind to Humankind WeekBrake Safety WeekHealth Unit Coordinators WeekNational Composites WeekNational Safe at Home WeekRabi ‘al AwwalWorld Water WeekLinks and References: https://authorservices.wiley.com/Reviewers/journal-reviewers/what-is-peer-review/types-of-peer-review.html https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11804526/ https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.210681https://researchintegrityjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41073-020-00092-1https://publications.aap.org/hospitalpediatrics/article/12/11/e409/189689/Research-Methods-How-to-Perform-an-Effective-Peer?autologincheck=redirected https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4975196/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5999550/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
There is a proposal that there is a dichotomy in human activities (specifically the cognitive ones) that can be characterized as a "warrior" mentality or a "victim" mentality. Any dichotomy that attempts to clasffiy behavior this way is going to have substantial limitations. We suggest that this discinction can be helpful in some ways, but seems highly toxic in others. Support us on Patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://mwangijoyce82.medium.com/are-you-a-victim-or-warrior-your-mindset-is-the-only-arsenal-you-need-4c6852e38748https://thebipolarbattle.org/are-you-a-warrior-survivor-victim-fighter-or-something-different/https://medium.com/imagine-foundation/mindsets-warrior-mindset-vs-victim-mindset-imagine-special-edition-96c460544306 https://www.proquest.com/openview/178c1e9f765fd3efb81f7145e8c0222f/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Pain can be conceptualized physiologically, neurologically, and behaviorally. We review the physiological and neurological components of pain, and then spend considerable time considering the behavioral aspects of pain. It's a subject that seems straight forward on the surface, but has a surprising amount of complexity, nuance, and disagreement. It might seem nice to not be able to feel pain, but this is actually very dangerous. Also, so plants feel pain?RecommendationsAbraham: Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie (https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-movies/mr-monks-last-case-a-monk-movie)Shane: Let This Radicalize You: Organizing and the Revolution of Reciprocal Care by Kelly Hays and Mariame Kaba (https://www.haymarketbooks.org/books/1922-let-this-radicalize-you)Holidays (8/20/2025):International Day of Medical TransportersLemonade DayNational Chocolate Pecan Pie DayNational Medical Dosimetrist DayNational Radio DayVirtual Worlds DayWorld Mosquito DayDrive Sober or Get Pulled OverMinority Enterprise Development WeekNational Aviation WeekLinks and References: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/pain5.htmhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3690315/American Pain Society. "Pain: Current Understanding of Assessment, Management, and Treatments."http://www.ampainsoc.org/ce/enduring.htmBesson, JM. "The Neurobiology of Pain." Lancet 353: 1610-1615, 1999.http://www.ub.uio.no/umn/farm/pbl/artikler/Neurobiology%20of%20pain.pdfFine P, Portenoy RK. "Opioid Analgesia." McGraw Hill, 2004Hamilton, PS. "Michigan: Pain and Symptom Management."http://www.criticalcareceu.com/courses/151/index_ccare.htmlHudspith, MJ et al. "Physiology of Pain."http://intl.elsevierhealth.com/e-books/pdf/1198.pdfJackson, M. "Pain and Its Mysteries." Adapted from "Pain the Fifth Vital Sign," 2002.http://fleen.psych.udel.edu/articles/AEP04.3.12.PDFKoman, K. "The Science of Hurt." Harvard Magazine, Nov.-Dec. 2005.http://www.harvardmagazine.com/on-line/110523.htmlKrames, E. "The Neurobiology of Pain."http://pacpain.com/docs/PPTC_Neurobiology-painforweb.pdfMassage & Bodywork Magazine. "Making Sense of Back Pain Part One."http://www.massageandbodywork.com/Articles/JuneJuly2006/backpain.htmlMassage & Bodywork Magazine. "Making Sense of Back Pain Part Two."http://www.massageandbodywork.com/Articles/AugSep2006/backpain.htmlMassage & Bodywork Magazine. "The Pain Game Part One."http://www.massageandbodywork.com/Articles/JuneJuly2006/paingame.htmlMassage & Bodywork Magazine. "The Pain Game Part Two."http://www.massageandbodywork.com/Articles/AugSep2006/paingame.htmlMcMahon, S and D Bennett. "Pain Mechanisms, Nature Reviews Neuroscience" poster.http://www.nature.com/nrn/posters/pain/nrn_pain_poster.pdfNat. Acad. Sciences Colloquium. "The Neurobiology of Pain." National Academies Press, 1999.http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?isbn=0309065488NCI: Pain Control. "A Guide for People with Cancer and Their Families."http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/paincontrol/page1"Neuroscience for Kids: Pain"http://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/pain.htmlNIDCR/NIH, Converging Pathways of Pain Research at NIDCR.http://history.nih.gov/exhibits/pain/index.htmlPace, MC et al. "Neurobiology of Pain." J Cell Physiol 209: 8-12, 2006.http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/112641486/PDFSTARTPayne, R. "Cancer Pain: Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology."Cancer 63: 2266-2274, 1989.http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/112673169/PDFSTARTPurves, D et al, "Neuroscience Chapter 10: Pain."http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/bv.fcgi?rid=neurosci.chapter.675#topSociety for Neuroscience. http://www.sfn.org/Brain Facts. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainFactsNociceptors and Pain. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_nociceptorsGender and Pain. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_Gender_and_PainNeuropathic Pain. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_neuropathicKilling Cells to Kill Pain. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_killingCellsToKillPain Cannabinoids and Pain. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?New Targets for Pain Relief. http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_painReliefSpine-health.com. "Modern Theories of Chronic Pain."http://www.spine-health.com/topics/cd/pain/chronic_pain_theories/chronic_pain_theory01.htmlStopPain.org. "Introduction to Chronic Pain."http://www.healingchronicpain.org/content/introduction/default.aspZichtermann, A. "Opioid Pharmacology and Considerations in Pain Management." US Pharmacisthttp://www.uspharmacist.com/index.asp?page=ce/105473/default.htmBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast
Autostereograms, better known as "Magic Eye" puzzles, are a unique 2D art in which repeated images create a 3D image, but you have to focus your eyes in just the right way to see it. We explain the history of this illusion, how it works, and how to see it. Futher, we explain why you see it as either 3D or inverted. Do you see the illusion? Get ad-free episodes and help us continue doing our thing: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/puzzles/eye-puzzles.htm?s1sid=4smf3pkhna4lnqzen1jh9sb0&srch_tag=dp5hyoro5ijjte5xvqeo4asj5xls3paw https://www.clarkeeye.com/the-science-behind-magic-eye-illusions#:~:text=A%20Magic%20Eye%20image%20starts,brain%20perceives%20the%20hidden%20picture.* Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast