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The Why Factor

The Why Factor

The extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions

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Millennials and business

Whether it is the growth in co-working spaces around the world full of 20 and 30-somethings starting their own thing, to TV shows on entrepreneurship, all the way to the big successes out of California?s Silicon Valley, the millennial generation are attracted to starting their own businesses. However, it is not just about making money but also about passion and doing good.

Christine Selph from Deloitte and professor Ethan Mollick from the Wharton School of Business give us an overview of this generation and of entrepreneurship. We go to a session run by Pop Up Business School to speak to some millennials about their motivations. Ayzh founder Zubaida Bai and Upstart founder Richard Dacalos tell us about the power of social entrepreneurship to solve problems which can be neglected by governments, while former World Bank economist Charles Kenny cautions us about focusing too much on the individual at the expense of government.

Presenter and producer: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Editor: Andrew Smith

2020-02-03
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Why do we text instead of talk?

We can now curate who we talk to in a way that wasn?t thinkable when a bulky landline phone sat in a corner of a house and rang with anonymous urgency. The screens on our devices allow us to communicate in any number of quick, cheap but silent ways.These modern technologies are very useful, which is why they are so ubiquitous, but are they taking something from us that is deeply human? Sandra Kanthal asks why we choose to text instead of talk, and if this incredibly popular form of communication is changing the way we interact and relate with each other.

Contributors:

Gary Turk - Spoken Word Artist/Poet

Sherry Turkle - Professor of the Social Studies of Technology, MIT and Author, Reclaiming Conversation: How To Talk In The Digital Age

Sophie Scott - Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London

Mary Jane Copps - Owner, The Phone Lady

Chetan Deshpande - Digital Sales and Profit Consultant

2020-01-27
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Why do physical scars matter?

Physical scars can be sources of shame or badges of honour: acquired accidentally or a cry for help. How should we read them, and what do they tell us about ourselves and our place in the world?

We explore the practice of scarification, intentional body modification which has been practised for millennia, where scars denote status within tribal communities and are worn with pride. Brent Kerehona tells us about the type of scarification he has: Ta Moko.

We meet stuntman Andreas Petrides, who has been Obi-Wan Kenobi?s stunt double. He also wears his scars with pride, but for different reasons: they are trophies of his profession.

For millions, scars can be sources of embarrassment. We examine the constructs of beauty that might underpin those feelings. We speak to Hemani Modasia, who suffered scarring from burns to 35% of her body when she was a child, and who wishes, ultimately, she never had them. Scars can also be interpreted as a cry for help, transversing the space between the physical and the deeply emotional. Japanese photographer Kosuke Okahara tells us about his project which captured the scars of Japanese women who suffered from self-harm across a period of 6 years.

Former Vogue editor Jackie Dixon, tells us the fashion industry is now embracing scars - they are part of the zeitgeist. We spoke to Jackie at a photoshoot in central London, where she was photographing a model for a book she is producing that celebrates scars.

The programme also hears from Professor Parashkev Nachev, a neurologist at University College London, and Nichola Rumsey, founder of the Centre for Appearance Research at the University of the West of England. Parashkev tells us the creation of scars is not fully captured by science, suggesting they are both deeply mysterious and profoundly human. Nichola places scars in a social context, and points out they often render us outliers which, for many people, is challenging and uncomfortable.

Presenter: Christopher Gunness Producer: Oliver Newlan Editor: Carl Johnston

(Image: Hemani Modasia. Credit: Spencer Murphy for the Scar Free Foundation)

2020-01-20
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Dystopias

Dystopic fiction is going through a bit of a boom at the moment, but why is it that we can?t seem to get enough of stories where ordinary people struggle to survive against an all-powerful state, or in a post-apocalyptic world? Is it because they reflect the anxieties we already feel about the world we live in, or because they allow us to escape it? Shabnam Grewal asks: Why is dystopic fiction so appealing?

Produced and presented by Shabnam Grewal Editor: Andrew Smith

(Photo: Destroyed cityscape. Credit: Stock Photo/Getty Images)

2020-01-13
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Victim blaming

The trauma of sexual assault is both personal and brutal. But what may be an indisputably traumatic event for one person is often challenged by another, and the responsibility for events gets scattered in the process. Why is it so common for people to look for reasons to blame the victims of sexual assault for what has happened to them? Nastaran Tavakoli-Far finds multiple reasons from this, speaking to experts and to victims. We hear from Dr Mithu Sanyal about the role of long-standing attitudes towards gender and sexuality. New York Times journalists Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey tell us about power and the workplace and who is more likely to be believed. Dr Jackson Katz and Dr Laura Niemi explain the roles of both group dynamics and the language we use and how these often work to protect perpetrators rather than to support victims

Presenter and producer: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Editor: Andrew Smith

(Photo: Protest sign held up during 'Slut Walk' protests against victim blaming in Munich, Germany / Credit: Alexander Pohl / Nur Photo / Getty Images)

2020-01-06
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Parties

It?s the festive season, which means there are lots of parties going on. If you?re planning a party, what kind of celebration will it be? Organising the right food, drink and, crucially, guest list requires time and effort. Party planning has been listed as one of the most stressful professions you can have so, in the spirit of the season, in this edition of the Why Factor, Sandra Kanthal is asking: why is it so hard to plan the perfect party?

Contributors: Claire Derrick: Co-founder, The Event Academy Rosie Hart: Course Director, The Event Academy Kim Glasgow and Henry Khan: Students, The Event Academy Liz Taylor: Managing Director, Taylor Lynn Corporation Robin Dunbar: Professor of Evolutionary Psychology ? Oxford University Priya Parker: Author, The Art of Gathering ? How We Meet and Why It Matters

2019-12-16
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Resilience

Resilience is one of the buzzwords of the moment with multiple self-helps books and motivational speakers all promising us we can learn to be resilient, and use this skill to manage our pain. But what exactly is resilience and why does it help some people to cope better in times of stress than others?

In this Why Factor, Abby Hollick examines why some people, in the face of trauma, seem to be extraordinarily resilient and tests her own inner reserves to discover if she is naturally resilient or not.

Dr David Westley, head of psychology at Middlesex University Ann Masten, professor at the University of Minnesota Lucy Wairimu Mkuria, psychologist Dr Nimmi Hutnik, author of Becoming Resilient: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to Transform Your Life Melanie Reid, journalist for The Times Dr Atle Dyregrov, clinical psychologist and Director of the Centre for Crisis Psychology in Bergen.

Presenter and Producer: Abby Hollick Editor: Andrew Smith

(Photo: Man being rescued by two firefighters. Credit: Getty Images / Stock Photo)

2019-12-09
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Why does music affect the way we feel?

An exploration of why and how music can exert a powerful effect on our emotions. Why does one particular collection of notes make us want to get up and dance, and another calm us down?

Edwina Pitman hears from record producer turned neuroscientist Daniel Levitin about how our brains process music and from psychologist Victoria Williamson about how we react to the memories that sounds trigger. Renowned Hollywood film composer Brian Tyler demonstrates how he creates music that reflects the many shades of emotional grey between happy and sad, and Emmanuel Jal, the South Sudanese-Canadian musician and former child soldier, reveals how music helped him come to terms with the trauma of his childhood.

Guests: Bryan Tyler - film composer and conductor Dr Daniel Levitin - neuroscientist, and Founding Dean of Arts & Humanities at The Minerva Schools at KGI and author of This Is Your Brain On Music Dr Victoria Williamson - Lecturer in Music Psychology at the University of Sheffield and author of You Are The Music Rob Wood - founder of Music Concierge Bibi Heal - opera singer Emmanuel Jal - singer and musician

Presented and produced by Edwina Pitman Editor: Andy Smith

2019-12-02
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Why do we need to talk about men?

Many men believe their gender is under siege from a welter of criticism about male attitudes and behaviours. Not everyone accepts the idea of a masculinity crisis, but this programme looks at the concept of the ?man box? ? a set of attitudes and assumptions which many males struggle to deal with. Artist Grayson Perry joins the discussion.

Presenter: Michael Blastland Producer: Anna Meisel Editor: Andy Smith

(Photo: James Mace, Barber. Credit: Ian Burt)

2019-11-25
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Why grandparents are important

Asked to describe your grandparents, you may conjure fond childhood memories of trips to the park or going round for your favourite dinner after school. You may live just around the corner and see your grandparents daily or they might be a welcome voice on the phone, brightening your day from afar.

Elaine Chong discovers just why it is that grandparents matter so much to us and she finds out what happens when grandparents step in to raise their grandchildren.

In the township of Umlazi, near Durban in South Africa, she meets a group of grandmothers who are raising their grandchildren singlehandedly, after the children lost their parents in the Aids pandemic. She uncovers research showing grandmothers have played a vital role in the survival of their grandchildren for centuries, especially before modern medicine and support services existed. She hears the incredible story of an 11-year-old boy who is being raised by his grandparents and repays their devotion, by saving his grandad?s life. Have you ever stopped to consider why your grandparents hold such a dear place in your heart? Elaine hears evidence all those childhood visits, trips and gatherings play an important and lasting role in shaping our personalities.

Presenter: Elaine Chong Producers: Ben Robinson, Nicola Dowling and Carl Johnston Editor: Andy Smith

(Photo:Grandmother?s at the Community Centre, Umlazi, South Africa. Credit Nkosinathi Shange)

2019-11-18
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Why do we cheat on our partners?

Infidelity is seen as the ultimate betrayal, and many relationships are brought down by it. Around the world most of us agree that it?s wrong for a married person to have an affair, but that doesn?t seem to stop us: why? The answer could lie in our DNA. In this week?s Why Factor, Phoebe Keane hears how research into the mating habits of prairie voles could shed light on the extra marital affairs of humans and explores how we make decisions in the heat of the moment.

Guests: Professor Steven Phelps, University of Texas at Austin Assistant Professor Andrea Meltzer, Florida State University Professor Lucia O?Sullivan, University of New Brunswick Nicolle Zapien, Professor California Institute of Integral Studies, Psychotherapist, and Sex Therapist

Presented and Produced by Phoebe Keane Editor: Richard Knight

2019-11-11
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Why are we conscious?

It turns out that much of what we do ? much of our behaviour ? can be conducted at an unconscious level. That raises a profound question. What is the point of consciousness? What evolutionary advantage does consciousness bestow? We speak to psychologists and neuroscientists for the answer. And we ask a philosopher whether science can ever unravel the deep mysteries of consciousness. The programme is guaranteed to hurt your brain.

Presenter and producer: David Edmonds Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: / Credit: Doorway to another world - stock photo. Getty Images)

2019-11-04
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Why are we conscious of so little?

Sleep, day-dreaming, meditation ? these are all different states of awareness. In these states we are not really aware of what is going on around us. But even when humans are awake, we take in very little about our surroundings. So this week we speak to psychologists and neuroscientists to ask, why are we conscious of so little?

Presenter and producer: David Edmonds Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: X-ray image of human head with lightning / Credit: Getty Images)

2019-10-28
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Why are we shy?

About half the population consider themselves to have a shy personality, but most of us feel shyness in certain situations. Although some people may display outward signs of shyness such as blushing and being tongue-tied, shyness isn?t always visible to others; a surprising number of extroverts and performers are shy. Edwina Pitman examines what it means to be shy and attitudes towards shyness.

Professor Susie Scott, Professor of Sociology, University of Sussex Kristie Poole, Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University Professor Joe Moran, Professor of English and cultural history at Liverpool John Moores University and author of Shrinking Violets, A Field Guide to Shyness Sylvie Guillem, Ballet Dancer Susan Cain, Author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking Members of The London Shyness Social Group Professor Yiyuan Xu, Professor of Psychology, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Presented and produced by Edwina Pitman Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: Woman wearing paper bag. Credit: Stock Photo / Getty Images)

2019-10-21
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Intuition: Why should we be cautious of it?

In the second and final part exploring intuition Nastaran Tavakoli-Far speaks to cricket players who used data to win championships and hears about business leaders who trumpet their successes and forget the times their intuition led to failure. She talks to psychologists and Nobel Prize winners about why we get so attached to our intuitions and forget the times it was wrong, and why we should probably use a mix of both intuition and rational analysis when making decisions.

Alex Wakely ? former Northamptonshire County Cricket Captain

David Ripley ? Northamptonshire County Cricket Coach

Thomas Gilovich ? Professor of Psychology, Cornell University

Daniel Kahneman ? Winner of the 2002 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, Psychology Professor at Princeton University, author of ?Thinking Fast and Slow?

Eric Bonabeau ? Chief Scientific Officer, Telepathy Labs

Prof Gary Klein ? Cognitive Psychologist and President of Shadowbox LLC

Right Honourable Lord David Willetts ? Resolution Foundation and former UK Minster for Universities and Science

Presenter and producer: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: Toddler looking at a birthday cake on a table. Credit: Stock Photo. Getty Images)

2019-10-14
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Intuition: Why should we trust it?

In part one of two episodes exploring intuition, Nastaran Tavakoli-Far speaks to a detective who had an intuition that someone was a serial killer, as well as hearing stories about firefighters who saved themselves from death after listening to their intuition. She also speaks to psychologists, neuroscientists and a Nobel Prize winning economist to find out more about how intuition is formed and how it works, and also hears about intuition?s role in the world of politics.

Detective David Swindle ? Head of Crime Solutions

Prof Gary Klein ? Cognitive Psychologist and President of Shadowbox LLC

Prof Daniel Kahneman ? winner of the 2002 Nobel Prize in in Economic Sciences, Psychology Professor at Princeton University, author of ?Thinking fast and slow?

Prof Antonio Damasio ? professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of Southern California and director of the Brain and Creativity Institute

Dr Michelle Wright ? Investigative Psychology Researcher and Chartered Psychologist

Right Honourable Lord David Willetts ? Resolution Foundation and former UK Minster for Universities and Science

Presenter and Producer: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Editor: Richard Knight

(Image: Firefighter and Fire. Credit: Stock Photo. Getty Images )

2019-10-07
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Why do we love camping?

From instant messaging, to online shopping and even smart fridges, we live in a connected age where all of life?s essentials can be obtained at the click of a button. So why do so many people ditch the trappings of modern life and head off into the countryside with a tent? In this week?s episode of the Why Factor adventure journalist Phoebe Smith sets out on a journey to discover what makes camping so special. Along the way she discovers a camper in Kenya who spends his weekends alone immersed in nature, a family in Greenland who turned their backs on the rat race to live in a tepee and she even convinces her dad to join her for a night?s wild camping on an island in the River Thames in England. She discovers that leaving our phones and tablets behind to spend a few peaceful nights under the stars might not just be a good way to unwind but research shows it can improve our sleep patterns and well-being. So the question is why aren?t we all doing it?

Reporter: Phoebe Smith Producers: Nicola Dowling, Oliver Newlan and Ben Robinson Editor: Carl Johnston

(Photo: Camping at Mount Kenya. Credit: Martin Ngugi / Getty Images)

2019-09-30
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Why do some people reject society?

All over the world there are people rejecting the society they live in and choosing radically different pathways. Some are abandoning the idea of a ?family house? in favour of a nomadic, solitary life in a camper van. They live frugally as they travel around the country, or even the world, in their tiny homes.

Others go in a different direction, seeking a life which fulfils them and aligns with their values. They may end up in an ?intentional community?, where both income and property are shared.

Some choose to withdraw their children from formal education and instead allow them to follow their own interests, learning what they think they need to, when they need to. Others go even further. They want to run their own country, or micro-nation, so they can live under laws and legislation they believe in. On the Why Factor this week, Shabnam Grewal meets people who reject the society they live in, and choose instead to carve out their own way.

Presented and produced by Shabnam Grewal Editor: Richard Knight

(Image: Woman looks out the back of her camping van. Credit: Stock Photo/Getty Images)

2019-09-23
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Why are we so gloomy about the world?

Statistics from around the world show huge improvements to our way of life, but many of us think the world is in decline. There are good reasons for this; climate change is often cited as the big one. But many of us aren?t aware of the huge strides we?ve made over the decades in reducing poverty, improving healthcare and tackling hunger. In fact, according to surveys of people in richer countries at least, the majority of people think the world is getting worse; but why? In this edition of the Why Factor, Sandra Kanthal asks if human nature is wired to fixate on the downsides of life.

Professor Martin Seligman, Director of the Positive Psychology centre at the University of Pennsylvania Dr Hannah Ritchie, Head of Research at Our World in Data Ola Rosling , Director and Co-founder of the Gapminder Foundation Chris Martenson, Co-founder and CEO of Peak Prosperity Professor Jeremy Adleman, Director of The Global History Lab at Princeton University Steven Pinker, Professor of Psychology at Harvard University

Presenter: Sandra Kanthal Producer: Xavier Zapata

(Image: Woman on a train looking out of the window. Credit: Marjan Apostolovic/Getty Images)

2019-09-16
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Why do we (still) wear make-up?

In the 1970s, second wave feminists declared war on make-up - arguing it oppressed women, distracted them from gaining equality, and forced them to attain a beauty ideal not expected of men. And yet young women today wear more make-up than ever. Women have made gains in employment, education, sexual liberation, so why is it so many of us can?t leave the house without make-up? We explore the power and allure of mak-eup and why it works.

Presented and Produced by Gemma Newby Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: Young woman vlogging about beauty products. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-08-26
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Why learn to be happy?

What does happiness mean to you? Friends, family, the rush of a crowd or the joy of solitude? Happiness is a fundamental human desire, yet we often struggle to achieve it. Understanding what does and does not make us happy is a growing field of scientific study. In this edition of The Why Factor, Sandra Kanthal asks if we can really teach people how to be happy.

Laurie Santos ? Professor of Psychology, Yale University Bruce Hood ? Professor of Developmental Psychology, University of Bristol Ellie Wright ? Student, University of Bristol Meike Wiking ? CEO, Happiness Research Institute Jan-Emmanuel de Neve ? Associate Editor, World Happiness Report Professor Dixon Chibanda ? Psychiatrist and Founder of The Friendship Bench Project

(Photo: Notepad and smile emoticon on books. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-08-19
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Why do funerals matter?

Christopher Gunness explores why funerals matter so profoundly to us, as individuals and societies. He talks to people who have lost loved ones in Ghana, Pakistan and the UK about the challenges they have faced. He discovers how burial and cremation have become popular in different countries at different times, visits a green burial place and looks at the growing world of online memorials.

Presenter: Christopher Gunness Producer: Bob Howard

(Photo: Ghana, Accra Funeral Service. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-08-12
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Why do we blend?

Blending ingredients to produce something new is a distinctively human urge, and one of our most creative acts. We blend all sorts of products, such as tea, champagne and perfume. Did you know that blended whiskies combine over 30 single malts? In this week?s Why Factor, Barry Smith asks - why we blend. And why some blends work whilst others don?t.

Presenter: Barry Smith Producer: David Edmonds Editor: Richard Knight

2019-08-05
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Why does nature calm anxiety?

As the world grows more urban, humanity moves further away from nature. Could this be the reason anxiety has become the most diagnosed mental illness in the west? The idea of mindfulness is becoming more popular as the mainstream grows more aware of how panicked we all are. How are we tackling this issue? Jordan Dunbar dives into a niche of researchers and therapists who are learning about and treating the negative symptoms of urban life with a dose of nature.

Lea Kendall, Therapist and James Kendall, Wilderness Instructor Birgitta Gatersleben, Environmental Psychologist Patricia Hasbach, Clinical Psychotherapist Harini Negrenda, Professor of Sustainability at Azim Premji University, Bangalore, India Layla McCay, Centre for Urban Design and Mental Health

Presented and Produced by Jordan Dunbar Researcher Julia Webster Editor Richard Knight

2019-07-29
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Why do we care so much about games?

The sports teams we support say something about who we are. Our identities are bound up with the men and women who play for our side ? and we experience their success and failure as if they were our own. But, if supporting your team is so important, how can there be so many people who think these contests are of little consequence? Sandra Kanthal explores why we care so deeply about the outcome of a game.

Michael Sandel, professor of Government Theory - Harvard University Dr Martha Newson, cognitive anthropologist - Oxford University Dr Alan Pringle, faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences - University of Nottingham Stephen Reicher, professor of Social Psychology -University of St Andrews Matthew Engel, sportswriter and author of That?s the Way It Crumbles Nisha Nair, assistant professor of Business Administration ? University of Pittsburgh

(Photo: Pakistan cricket superfans. Credit: Mohammed Arif, ECB National Growth Manager, Diverse Communities)

2019-07-22
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Why do some people become hermits?

If the idea of being all alone, in silence, for long periods of time fills you with dread, it might be hard to understand why anyone would choose to be a hermit. But throughout history and across all cultures, there have been people who choose to leave behind the life and people they know to live in isolation and silence. This week, Shabnam Grewal asks: why do people become hermits?

Guests: Sara Maitland - writer, feminist and Catholic hermit. Ansuman Biswas - artist and part-time hermit Michael Finkel - writer of The Stranger in the Woods, about American hermit Christopher Knight Meng Hu - former librarian who runs a website called Hermitary Prof Takahiro Kato - psychiatrist who specialises in hikikomori

Music by Ansuman Biswas and Stanley Keach.

Image: An isolated log cabin (Credit: Getty Images)

2019-07-15
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Why should we work together?

Open plan offices, hot-desking, group brainstorming sessions: collaboration seems to be king in the modern workplace. Recent studies have found that we are spending up to 80% of our working days either in meetings or dealing with requests from our colleagues. But is working together really the best way? Is the idea of collaboration something we?re fetishising at the cost of productivity and creativity, and have we lost sight of the benefits of working alone?

Nastaran Tavakoli-Far shares her own dislike of the BBC?s open-plan office and asks, in some desperation: why should we work together?

Guests:

Art Markman, professor of psychology and marketing at the University of Texas at Austin, and author of Bring Your Brain to Work Kerstin Sailer, reader in social and spatial networks, The Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking John Maeda, global head of design at Automattic

Image: Workers in an open-plan office (Credit: Getty Images)

2019-07-08
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Schadenfreude

Schadenfreude is a German word that means ?harm-joy?. It is the pleasure we feel from someone else?s misfortune, and it can come in many shades. It is the laughter we can?t stifle when someone unexpectedly falls over, or the triumphant pleasure we feel when a rival is defeated. We can also feel it when something bad happens to someone we genuinely like.

Edwina Pitman examines why, even when we?re happy and successful, we can?t help but enjoy others? bad luck.

Contributors: Esther Walker - journalist Dr Tiffany Watt Smith - cultural historian and author of Schadenfreude: The Joy of Another?s Misfortune Professor Richard Smith - professor of psychology, University of Kentucky Dr Andre Szameitat - reader in psychology, Brunel University Anuvab Pal - Comedian Mike Wendling - Editor, BBC Trending

Presented and produced by Edwina Pitman Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: Cheerful young woman lying on sofa with laptop in modern office lounge. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-07-01
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Why aren?t more women in computer science?

The history of computing is filled with the accomplishments of women. But in the West, the number of women taking computer science degrees has fallen sharply from its peak in the 1980s.

In the developing world, however, the trend is going in the other direction, because learning to code offers economic opportunities not available to women before. Women are still outnumbered in computer science classrooms, but there are more of them.

In this edition of The Why Factor on the BBC World Service, Sandra Kanthal asks why there areso few women in computer science, and what is driving them from a field they helped to create?

Guests: Dame Wendy Hall, Regius Professor of Computer Science, University of Southampton Dr Barbara Ericson, Assistant Professor of Information, University of Michigan Dr Anjali Das, Head of Learning, Centre for Computing History Miriam Posner, Assistant Professor of Information Studies and Digital Humanities, UCLA Noemi Titarenco, Software leader and product manager, Los Angeles Fereshteh Forough, Founder: Code To Inspire

Apple Macintosh Commercial ? 1984 produced by Fairbanks Films

Image: A woman studies a computer screen (Credit: Getty Images)

2019-06-24
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Why do we care where we come from?

Most of us feel some need to know a roadmap of our past, our connections with a family tree which took root before we were born. We look for stories to tell about where we come from and seek answers in the lives of our ancestors, even in the DNA they pass on to us. In this edition of the Why Factor, Viv Jones asks why we have such a fundamental need to discover the stories of our heritage, and what they tell us about ourselves.

Contributors: Sandy Banks, journalist Caitriona Palmer, author of ?An Affair With My Mother? Fenella Cannell, Associate Professor Of Anthropology, London School of Economics Tim Caulfield, Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy, University of Alberta Catherine St Clair, founder of NPE Friends Fellowship

Image: Woman admiring the sunset Credit: Getty Images

2019-06-17
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Why do people risk death in pursuit of adventure?

What makes some people want to base jump off a building, or climb a cliff with no ropes? A thrill-seeking personality may be necessary, but is it enough to court the sort of danger that could kill? In this week's Why Factor, we explore why some people risk death in pursuit of adventure.

CONTRIBUTORS Hazel Findlay, Professional climber. Erik Monasterio, consultant in Forensic Psychiatry, clinical director of the regional forensic service in Canterbury New Zealand and senior clinical lecturer with the University of Otago. Mary Philips, Professor in Psychiatry in chemical and translational science, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Tim Woodman, Professor of Psychology, School of Sport Health and Life Sciences at Bangor University. Roberta Mancino, BASE jumper and stunt woman. Rob Fletcher, associate professor of sociology of development and change at Hanagen University in the Netherlands. Steven Lyng, Professor emeritus at Carthage College and Kenosha Wisconsin.

Photo: Male climber gripping on handhold while climbing in cave Credit: Getty Images

2019-06-10
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Why is it so hard to get people to pay tax?

Our attitude to taxation is determined by a wide range of factors: whether we think our neighbours are tax dodgers, how much control we have over how funds are spent and even our gender, age and religious beliefs. Nastaran Tavakoli-Far hears tales of tax avoidance by the world?s super-rich and finds out how governments around the world are using simple ?nudge? techniques to get people to feel positive about paying up.

Guests: Carla Gericke, President Emeritus of the Free State Project Brooke Harrington, Professor of Sociology, Dartmouth College Stewart Kettle, Senior Advisor at the Behavioural Insights Team Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, Associate Professor of Economics and Strategy at Saïd Business School Benno Torgler, Professor of Economics in the School of Economics and Finance, QUT Kelly Sarri, filmmaker

Photo: Calculating Tax Credit: Getty Images

2019-06-03
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Confidence: How it can help us

How confidence can motivate, get us off the couch, make us healthier, enterprising, decisive and help us live up to our potential We also learn how doctors, entrepreneurs and whole economies can benefit from the right kind of confidence and the ways in which we can tell the good from the bad. In this edition of the Why Factor, Michael Blastland asks: why do we admire confidence?

Contributors: Ed O?Brien - Associate Professor of Behaviour Science, University of Chicago Booth School of Business Maria Konnikova - Psychologist and Author: The Confidence Game Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic - Psychologist and Author: Confidence, The Surprising Truth About How Much You Need and How To Get It. Dr Anne McGuinness ? University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Dr Josephine Perry ? Sports Psychologist Don Moore ? Professor of Management of Organizations, Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley

2019-05-27
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Confidence: Why it misleads us

From doctors to politicians to your boss, people often ask us to put our confidence in them. We?re often urged to build more confidence in ourselves. But one of the most consistent findings in psychology is that there is very little overlap between confidence and competence; how good people think they are, and how good they really are. In this edition of the Why Factor, Michael Blastland asks: why do admire confidence?

Contributors Ed O?Brien - Associate Professor of Behaviour Science, University of Chicago Booth School of Business Maria Konnikova, Psychologist and Author: The Confidence Game Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Psychologist and Author: Confidence, The Surprising Truth About How Much You Need and How To Get It. Glen Fukushima -Senior Fellow, Center For American Progress Dr Anne McGuinness ? University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Photo Credit: Multiple exposure of businesswoman arms crossed / Getty Images

Film Credit: The Great Imposter Trailer 1960 / Universal Studios Home Entertainment / Director Robert Mulligan

2019-05-20
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Why do we find it hard to cut our losses?

At some point in our lives, we?re all likely to make an investment, in time or money or effort, which goes wrong. But, when we know we?re in a hole, why do we find it so hard to stop digging? Realising when we should cut our losses is a decision making skill that?s important in all areas of our lives. In this Why Factor Sandra Kanthal examines why we should all learn how to avoid the 'sunk cost' fallacy.

Guests:

Spencer Christian - author, You Bet Your Life Wandi Bruine de Bruin - professor of behavioural decision making, Leeds University Business School Dean Yeong - Malaysian writer and entrepreneur Lior Sheffer ? post-doctoral fellow, Department of Political Science, University of Toronto Christopher Olivola - assistant professor of marketing, Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University Claire Gregory ? co-founder, The Female Fitness Academy

Presented and produced by Sandra Kanthal Editor: Richard Knight

2019-05-06
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Emotional labour

Many jobs require workers to manage their emotional expressions with others. Flight attendants are expected to smile and be friendly even in stressful situations, carers are expected to show empathy and warmth, whereas bouncers and prison guards might need to be stern or aggressive. This management of emotions as part of a job is called ?emotional labour?. It is something many people perform on top of the physical and mental labour involved in their work. Psychologists have shown that faking emotions at work, and suppressing real feelings, can cause stress, exhaustion and burnout. These efforts can be invisible, and that sometimes allows employers to exploit them. Nastaran Tavakoli-Far speaks to sociologists, psychologist, economists and bartenders and asks why we should value emotional labour.

2019-04-29
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Why is climate change so politicised?

People on the left are more likely to accept climate change than those on the right in the USA, Australia and much of Western Europe. But it?s a question that starts with little more than a thermometer, a measurement of the temperature at the earth?s surface. Why does a science question divide people along party lines? Was it the oil industry, fuelling doubt about the science? Or something deep in our psychology, that causes us to push the science aside in favour of belonging to a tribe, a feeling that who our friends are and what they believe, matters more?

Presenter: Michael Blastland Producer: Phoebe Keane Editor: Richard Vadon

2019-04-22
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Separating the art from the artist

Why can?t we judge art at face value? How does the identity, behaviour and cultural context of the artist play a part in how we approach their artwork? Edwina Pitman explores why we can?t seem to separate the art from the artist.

Guests: John Myatt, artist Paul Bloom, Professor of psychology and cognitive science at Yale University Michelle Hartney, artist Lionel Shriver, novelist Ananya Mishra, PhD researcher in English, University of Cambridge Svetlana Mintcheva, Director of Programs, National Coalition Against Censorship, New York Bob Sturm, Associate Professor in Speech, Music and Hearing at Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm

Presented and Produced by Edwina Pitman Editor: Richard Knight

(Photo: Woman looking at the Pablo Picasso painting The Dream. Credit: Leon Neal/Getty Images)

2019-04-15
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Cinderella

Popularly known through the1950 Disney film of the same name, Cinderella has become a childhood classic all over the world. But different versions of her story can be traced all the way from Asia to Africa and beyond. These variants provide a snapshot of the history and cultures from which they emerge, providing clues to the tale?s longevity. In this episode Sandra Kanthal asks: Why is Cinderella such a popular story to tell.

Guests: Gessica Martini ? PhD Student, Durham University Juwen Zhang ? Professor of Chinese, Willamette University Rym Tina Ghazal ? Author and Journalist Ousseina Alidou ? Professor of African Languages and Literatures, Rutgers University Dee Dee Chainey ? Author and Co-founder of Folklore Thursday

Editor: Richard Knight Producer: Tural Ahmedzade

Photo: Cinderella About to Try on the Glass Slipper by Richard Redgrave Credit: Historical Picture Archive/Corbis via Getty Images

2019-04-08
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Why do stories matter?

Telling stories is one of the ways we connect to one and other. Stories teach us empathy and allow us to feel what it?s like to walk in someone else?s shoes. They evolve to show us what our society considers acceptable - and what will not be forgiven. Sandra Kanthal explores why stories matter.

Guests: David JP Philips ? Communications Expert John Yorke - Author: Into The Woods Mirta Galesic - Professor in Human Social Dynamics, Santa Fe Institute Jamie Tehrani, Associate Professor of Anthropology, Durham University Elizabeth Kperrun - Founder; Zenafri Limited Samantha Armstrong - Senior Publisher, Oxford University Press Sandra Newman ? Author: The Heavens and How Not To Write a Novel

Music Track: Make America Great Again ? performed by Dave Fenley

(Photo: Woman holding an open book bursting with light. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-04-01
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Mothers and daughters

Is there any truth to claim that the mother daughter relationship is more fraught than any other dynamic? Psychologist Professor Terri Apter explains how conflict can help mothers and daughters renew their bond. Mother and daughter team Sally and Sarah Kettle advocate shared experience as a way to strengthen family ties, something they found while rowing across the Atlantic together for four months, and comedian Sindhu Vee talks about the unique features of a mother?s expectations.

We also hear how, despite the best of intentions, many mothers can disempower their daughters in order to thrive in a patriarchy. Author and women?s rights activist Elif Shafak warns about the ways daughters are taught to blend in, especially in cultures which are more gendered. Dr Leyla Hussein has had first-hand experience of female genital mutilation, and explains how women have become the foot soldiers of a patriarchal system that promotes such practises.

Writer and matriarchy scholar Vicki Noble describes how the mother daughter dynamic is different in societies where women wield power, and life coach Kasia Urbaniak, who teaches women the foundations of power and influence, explains what a mother can do to empower her daughter.

Presenter: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Producer: Edwina Pitman Editor: Richard Knight

Photo: Mother and daughter together. Credit: Getty Images

2019-03-25
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Fathers and daughters

Fathers are often regarded as secondary parents in many cultures, perhaps even more so when they have girls. We examine why this can be damaging, and the ways in which fathers can have a profound influence on how their daughters navigate the world.

Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin explains why human fathers are in the only five per cent of mammals that stick around after the birth of their offspring, and why that?s important, particularly for girls. Father and daughter team Jerry and Chloe Hughes, who run a fine art foundry, talk about how working together has changed their family dynamic for the better.

We also look at the consequences of a dysfunctional father-daughter relationship. Professor of Adolescent and Educational Psychology Dr Linda Nielsen describes how a poor relationship with a father affects a daughter?s life choices well into adulthood.

Writer and podcaster Carvell Wallace gives some sage parenting advice to fathers of teenage girls, and we hear from Australian dad Jonathan Poyter, who took part in a 13-week programme called DADEE at Newcastle University in Australia, where dads and daughters learn to bond through sports.

And it?s not just a one way street. Dr Joan Costa-Font, professor in the Department of Health Policy at the London School of Economics, tells us about his latest research, which shows that daughters also have a big impact on the behaviour of their fathers.

Presenter: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Producer: Edwina Pitman Editor: Richard Knight

Photo: A father and daughter playing (Credit: Getty Images)

2019-03-18
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Fattism

We are told obesity is on the rise - globally. But if you think about it, how often do you see an obese chief executive, or tech entrepreneur, or politician even? Especially a female one. Perhaps the reason is because society discriminates against fat people.

In this Why Factor we explore why it is OK to be anti-fat, where that attitude comes from, and what it feels like to be on the receiving end of society?s prejudice.

Producer: Gemma Newby

(Photo: A woman and a man sit together. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-03-11
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Beauty pageants

Beauty pageants project an image of inspiring glitz and glamour. Often contestants enter these competitions to boost their confidence and take advantage of the platform they provide. But, there are plenty of critics who argue they objectify women, and are out of place in a world striving for gender equality. In this week?s Why Factor, Sandra Kanthal asks: in an age of female empowerment, why do women still compete in beauty pageants?

Presented and Produced by Sandra Kanthal Editor: Richard Knight

Audio clips courtesy of: Binibining Pilipinas 2010- Crowning Moment Audio: From Youtube footage Credit: Name: tpageant Virtually Viral ? Guys Go Insane over Miss Philippines Audio: From Youtube footage Credit: Name: Virtually Viral Miss Universe 2015 Audio: From Youtube footage Credit: Name: Vevo/Fox Miss Peru 2017 Audio: From Youtube footage Credit: Name: Guardian News

Photo: Silhouette of woman holding a beauty queen crown Credit: Getty Images

2019-03-04
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Why is architecture so big on Instagram?

Instagram?s one billion users love architecture. If you search for #architecture, you will get hundreds of millions of results. Some architecture publications have more followers than household names like Cosmpolitan for example. We also seem to love to use buildings as a backdrop to our own vanity, as the number of selfies on Instagram proves. But if architecture is so popular on the platform, does that mean that architects are now starting to design our buildings and public spaces to be Instagrammable? Australian architect Scott Valentine tells us that is increasingly what clients are asking for. So much so, he?s created an Instagram design guide for architects. Carl Turner, who is behind the new multi-use building called Peckham Levels in London, which is also very popular on the app, says that Instagrammability was on the clients? brief.

We also hear from architect Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli, who works for Rem Koolhaus?s Office of Metropolitan Architecture. He is worried how the need to be always be on social media affects up-coming architects.

Travel writer Helen Coffey explains how cities are exploiting Instagram to attract visitors with installations and space design ? from big, signature pieces like Thomas Heatherwick?s Vessel in New York to fairly crude attempts featuring temporary pastel walls with fake flowers and large letters spelling a city?s name.

But it is not just conventionally pretty and shiny that catches the eye of Instagrammers. St Louis photographer Demond Meek became popular with his haunting photos of dilapidated houses in his city. He credits the immediacy of the platform for getting him out of a creative rut.

Art and architecture historian Philip Ursprung points out that photography and architecture have a long, common history, but also warns that many new cities are increasingly created to look good on photos and from afar, but are out of proportion and unpleasant to be in.

Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Producer: Rose De Larrabeiti Editor: Richard Knight

Image: Monster Building (Quarry Bay) Hong Kong Credit: Getty Images

2019-02-25
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Meritocracy

The concept that you can get ahead on your work and talents, also called meritocracy, is something we mostly agree is good. We also equate it with a fairer society, one where the social order is not determined by birth but one which gives us some sort of agency over our futures. However the term itself was coined as a warning. So why do we believe in it so strongly? The sociologist Michael Young first used the term to describe a dystopia where believing in meritocracy would legitimise inequality. We speak to his son, the journalist Toby Young, about his father?s and his own views about shortcomings of meritocratic societies. We hear from schoolgirls in inner-city London who question meritocracy, but are determined to get ahead in the world regardless. Entire cultures and societies are formed around the concept of meritocracy. Psychology Professor Shannon McCoy tells us about the American Dream and how buying into it can alter people?s well-being, and Prof Ye Liu tells us about the civil servant exams of ancient China and the country?s current relationship with meritocracy. Finally the author Anand Giridharadas cautions us about buying into this concept and gives us the view from both India and Silicon Valley, and consultant Joelle Emerson talks about how she tries to help tech companies in California hire more diverse workers. Presenter: Nastaran Tavakoli-Far Producer: Ivana Davidovic Editor: Richard Knight

2019-02-18
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Speed

We live in a world where going fast ? and faster ? is an everyday fact of life. Where fast cars, fast boats and fast athletes command our attention. In theme parks we queue for the most fastest, most exciting rides. But why do we find speed so thrilling?

Caz Graham meets people who risk their lives to set world speed records, the boss of a Formula One race team, and a sports psychologist to ask ? why are we so taken with speed?

What motivates people like Formula 1 or speed boat drivers to stretch themselves to the limits of what might be dangerous? Do we like scaring ourselves? Caz visits the annual Coniston Power Boat Records Week in the English Lake District to meet the teenager who hopes to break a world water speed record and she hears of the risks that going at speed on water can entail. She hears from a ?thrill engineer? about why people like to ride roller-coasters. From the psychologist who worked with the UK?s Olympic cycling team in 2016, Caz hears what it takes psychologically to be able to want to go faster and faster. And from the man in charge of Renault?s Formula One team she discovers the engineering effort that goes into designing fast cars ? and what it takes to be the driver of such cars as they race around high speed tracks.

(Photo: Zapcat powerboat racing, Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, UK. Credit: Education Images/UIG/Getty Images)

2019-02-11
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Blame

When things go wrong, we crave something or someone to blame. It?s a strategy which puts people on the defensive, and can create a toxic culture. People remember when they have been blamed for something, and will be quicker to deflect blame themselves. It?s a primitive emotion which can be found in almost every society. In this edition of the Why Factor, Sandra Kanthal asks: why do we play the blame game?

Contributors to this programme include: Mark Alicke, Psychology Professor, Ohio University Terri Apter, Psychologist and Author of Passing Judgement: The Power of Praise and Blame in Everyday Life. Charlie Campbell, Author of Scapegoat: A History of Blaming Other People Dr Cicely Cunningham, Oncologist and founder of the campaign: Learn Not Blame Richard Gowthorpe, Criminal Defence Lawyer Armele Philpotts- relationship and family therapist and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Image: Pointing Fingers Credit: Getty Images

2019-02-04
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Smart Speakers

The number of smart speakers in US households has increased by 78% year-over-year, from 66 million in December 2017 to 118 million in December 2018. About ten million people in the UK now use one and, on average, one in 10 people in the world now own a smart speaker. And it does not seem like the rise is stopping any time soon.

Presenter Paul Bakibinga investigates the current possibilities of a smart home and voice design. Together with experts he explores how owning a virtual assistant - always on and always listening - introduces a whole host of issues to consider - from privacy through to child development and rampant consumerism. But, using your voice for browsing the internet, playing music or ordering groceries has proved to be a lifeline for disabled and elderly users.

We hear from child psychologist Rachel Severson, online privacy expert Florian Schaub, computer voice expert and psychologist Jonathan Gratch, Google?s Cathy Pearl and the author of Radical Technologies Adam Greenfield.

We are also invited to a multi-generational home of smart speaker users who don?t all agree whether these machines are a force for good or another way of surrendering our privacy.

Presenter: Paul Bakibinga Producer: Ivana Davidovic

(Photo: Smart Speaker. Credit: Getty Images)

2019-01-28
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Giving Presents

A present connects, communicates and makes people generally happy. It can strengthen a relationship, but also jeopardise it. Have you ever wondered why a certain present was chosen for you? And how much thought goes into the presents you give? This Why Factor unwraps the social complexities that surround the giving of gifts. Lore Wolfson finds out what makes a perfect present and receives clues on how to choose it. While revealing the risks inherent to the act, especially when a gift is given across cultures, she also learns why it?s best not to give a clock to someone from China and seeks advice on the pitfalls that need to be navigated.

A psychologist uncovers some underlying motivations of why we give presents and shares tips on dealing with disappointing ones.

The truth about gifts ? donated free and without obligation ? in the Why Factor.

Presenter: Lore Wolfson Producer: Sabine Schereck Editor: Andrew Smith

Picture Credit: Getty Creative / iStock / AntonioGuillem

2019-01-21
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