Groks Science Radio Show And Podcast

Gratitude and thankfulness are often in short supply. But, what can science tell us about increasing our sense of thankfulness? On this program, Prof. Robert Emmons discussed the psychology of gratitude.

Medical practitioners must put the interests of their patients first and foremost. But, do doctors always follow this maxim? On this program, Dr. Joshua Spanogle joined us to discuss issues in medical ethics.

Scientific observation of the planets in our solar system has a long and florid history. With the increased exploration of the planets, fascinating insights have quickly emerged. On this program, Dr. Richard Corfield presented the natural history of the solar system.

Science relies on empirical evidence to support its central theories and tenets, while religious belief relies on the faith of the believer. Can these two separate worldviews be reconciled? On this program, Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute discussed science and religious faith.

Changes in the ocean environment are rapidly affecting the well being of both human and marine life. On this program, Kenneth R. Weiss from the L.A. Times examined the altered oceans.

There are some facts that are common knowledge, but these often turn out to be completely wrong. When does common knowledge become general ignorance? On this program, John Lloyd and John Mitchinson from the BBC program, QI, will discuss the book of general ignorance.

Early childhood is the period when most of the mental faculties of the brain are formed. Yet, much of our education takes place much later in life. What can be done to assure a bright childhood? On this program, Dr. Jill Stamm discussed early childhood learning and development.

Heart disease and depression seem like unrelated ailments. However, new research is finding that the occurrence of one can result in the manifestation of the other. On this program, Dr. Lawson Wulsin discussed the guid between heart disease and depression.

The theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin has served as the basis for modern biological research. But, is evolution at odds with religious beliefs? On this program, Prof. Francisco Ayala from U.C. Irvine discussed Darwin and Religion.

While most might experience revulsion by fecal matter, the constitution of poo can actually tell a lot about gastrointestinal health. On this program, Dr. Anish Sheth and Josh Richmond discussed the science of poo.

Collaboration in business is important for the development of ideas and products. Technological innovations are facillitating this process. On this program, Don Tapscott discussed Wikinomics and how mass collaboration is changing business.

Nitric oxide is a ubiquitous molecule in the body that is involved in several important physiological processes. However, diseases may arise when the regulation of nitric oxide is disrupted. On this program, Prof. Martin Pall from Washington State University discussed the role of nitric oxide in disease.

Space travel has typically relied on conventional high energy routes, known as Hohmann Transfers, to move their payloads. However, low energy routes do exist and are currently being explored. On this program, Dr. Ed Belbruno from NASA discussed low energy space flight.

Surgical procedures, while often necessary for curing ailments, can sometimes be over-prescribed by clinicians. On this program, Peter Moore, editor at Mens Health, discussed unnecessary surgeries.

The invention of the telescope 400 years ago opened a window to the universe that continues to amaze and enlighten. On this program, Dr. Geoff Andersen discussed the history and invention of the telescope.

How does the US stack up to others in energy efficiency? Arthur Rosenfeld joined us again to discuss some of the encouraging lessons in energy development around the world.

Cancer is a disease that strikes fear by its mere mention. But, rapid advances in medical science are developing new treatments. On this program, Prof. David Nathan from Harvard MGH discussed new cancer therapies.

Continued developments in space exploration hold the promise for advancing human knowledge about the universe. But, how can humans reconcile these findings with their past beliefs. On this program, Prof. Albert Harrison discussed science, religion, and folklore in space exploration.

Evolution continues to be a contentious idea in modern society, especially in the United States, where it has spurred numerous legal battles over the right to teach the competing concept of Intelligent Design in public schools. On this program, Matthew Chapman discussed evolution vs. intelligent design in the Kitzmiller v. Dover Board of Education case.

While the incident that occurred in Roswell, NM is now 60 years old, theories and rampant speculation remain as to what occurred. On this program, Donald Schmitt discussed investigations into the Roswell incident. Special note: this is our -Independence Day- episode. If you do not get the joke, search the Internet Movie Database.