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Thinking Clearly

Aug 15, 2017

When we’re compelled to explain how something works, including political issues and policies, we are forced to confront our lack of knowledge. That idea, its implications, and related studies from cognitive science frames this discussion with guest, Professor Steven Sloman, one of the authors of the recent book,...


Aug 14, 2017

Bob and Julia discuss beliefs and why we cling to false beliefs. Several examples of commonly held beliefs which turned out to be “false” (not supported) are discussed including: high rates of suicide during the Christmas season, vortices in sink and toilet drains spinning in opposite directions in northern and...


Aug 14, 2017

The concepts of frames and narratives, which can be used to manipulate beliefs and opinions, are described with the help of audio clips from George Lakoff, President Trump’s speech to the Joint Session of Congress, Science Communicator Aaron Huertas, and Science Writer Lee Gutkind. This show aired live on June 1, 2017.


Aug 13, 2017

Topics, with guest Dr. Steven Novella, range from the importance of critical thinking in general, to a discussion of the importance of developing practices in healthcare and other professions as well as policies in the political arena, that are guided by good evidence and scientific research. Dr. Novella is executive...


Aug 13, 2017

Bob and guest, Professor Jevin West, Assistant Professor in the Information School at the University of Washington, discuss the scientific method, real world practice of scientific research, and the importance of increasing our basic literacy of concepts in science and technology. Dr. West is co-director of the Data Lab...