Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast

Your Inner Macaque -- Groks Science Show 2012-05-02

02 May 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever noticed that people behave strangely in elevators? On this show, Dr. Dario Maestripieri discussed how studying the behavior of rhesus mo...

Fearless -- Groks Science Show 2012-04-25

25 Apr 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Although change is often desired, it is not usually achieved without trepidation. On this program, Dr. Jonathan Alpert discussed being fearless.

Counting Without Language -- Groks Science Show 2012-04-18

18 Apr 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Math and language may seem separate, but the two are remarkably intertwined. On this program, Dr. Liesje Spaepen joins us to discuss how language sha...

Equations -- Groks Science Show 2012-04-11

11 Apr 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Mathematical equations often seem abstruse and disconnected from the real world, however many of these have changed the word we live in. On this prog...

Technologists -- Groks Science Show 2012-04-04

04 Apr 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Although technology rules modern life, the establishment of modern centers for technological education was not met without resistance. On this program...

Unconquered -- Groks Science Show 2012-03-28

28 Mar 2012

Contributed by Lukas

The Amazon is one of the last unspoiled territories, where the indiginous tribes have remained largely untouched by modern civilization. On this progr...

Science of Mind -- Groks Science Show 2012-03-21

21 Mar 2012

Contributed by Lukas

We all know a lot about psychology, but it turns out that what we know is mostly wrong. Dr. John Cacioppo joins us this week to discuss how to teach d...

Bexarotene and Alzheimers -- Groks Science Show 2012-03-14

14 Mar 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Alzheimers Disease is an unfortunate fact of life in our world today. But advancements in science and medicine may one day change that fact. Dr. Paige...

Brain Trust -- Groks Science Show 2012-03-07

07 Mar 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Keeping up with the advances in science and technology can be daunting and it would help to have a brain trust. On this program, Garth Sundem discusse...

Willpower Instinct -- Groks Science Show 2012-02-29

29 Feb 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Although willpower is often viewed as a personality trait of great fortitude and resilience, new research is showing the neurobiological basis for wil...

Dirty Minds -- Groks Science Show 2012-02-22

22 Feb 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Why do we fall in love? What is it about the circuitry and neurochemistry of the brain that enables this behavior? On this program, Kayt Sukel discuss...

Bees and Eusocial Insects -- Groks Science Show 2012-02-15

15 Feb 2012

Contributed by Lukas

It can be difficult to discern the impact of genes on behaviour from the effect of behaviour on genes. On this program Dr. Gene Robinson talks about u...

Walking Fish -- Groks Science Show 2012-02-08

08 Feb 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Why would a fish have lungs and breathe air? What can a live fish tell us about the evolution of tetrapods? On this program, Heather King joins us to ...

Health Care Reform -- Groks Science Show 2012-02-01

01 Feb 2012

Contributed by Lukas

The Affordable Care Act continues to spur debate and confusion. What are the consequences of the health care reform act? On this program, Prof. Jonath...

Thinking Life -- Groks Science Show 2012-01-25

25 Jan 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Is it possible to think deeply in an age of distraction? What are the pitfalls for ourselves and society to be driven to constant distraction? On this...

Forgiveness -- Groks Science Show 2012-01-18

18 Jan 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Forgiving is a difficult task, even for the most resolute individual. How can we cultivate a sense of forgiveness? On this program, Mary Hayes Grieco ...

Empathy in Rats -- Groks Science Show 2012-01-11

11 Jan 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Empathic motivations for pro-social behaviours are unique to humans, or are they? Dr. Peggy Mason joins us to discuss empathy and pro-social behaviour...

Body Politic -- Groks Science Show 2012-01-04

04 Jan 2012

Contributed by Lukas

Advances in biology have revolutionized modern medicine, but they have also spurred many ethical and political issues. On this program, Prof. Jonatha...

Electric Cars -- Groks Science Show 2011-12-28

28 Dec 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The electric car has seen some fals starts, but new technical advances and changes to the global environment are propelling the adoption of these vehi...

Advocacy -- Groks Science Show 2011-12-21

21 Dec 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Good ideas are often overlooked, while bad ideas may flouirsh. How does one insure that the best ideas are used? On this program, Prof. John Daly disc...

Infinity Puzzle -- Groks Science Show 2011-12-14

14 Dec 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding the fundamental forces of nature is one of the hallmarks of modern physics. However, mathematically describing these forces often result...

Peacekeeping Economy -- Groks Science Show 2011-12-07

07 Dec 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Although military might is often viewed as the primary method for national security, forging economic relationships may be more beneficial in the long...

Mind Reading Ethics -- Groks Science Show 2011-11-30

30 Nov 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Mind reading is not something we have to worry about in our daily lives, but the day when we do have that worry may be closer than we think. On this p...

Global Arms -- Groks Science Show 2011-11-23

23 Nov 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The world of arms trading continues to affect global political and economic affairs. Yet, few investigations have delved into the shadowy and corrupt ...

Vonnegut -- Groks Science Show 2011-11-16

16 Nov 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The literary world would be a much poorer place without the works of Kurt Vonnegut, but few know about the life story of the author himself. On this p...

Gamification -- Groks Science Show 2011-11-02

02 Nov 2011

Contributed by Lukas

What makes some applications more useable and enjoyable than others? Gamification is a method for improving the rewarding aspects of any application a...

Technological Sport -- Groks Science Show 2011-10-26

26 Oct 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Technology has changed all aspects of our lives, but perhaps underappreciated is the effect technological advances have on sports. On this program, Jo...

Plastic Oceans -- Groks Science Show 2011-10-19

19 Oct 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Plastic debris has become a substantial threats to the oceans in the world. Where does this pollution originate and what can be done to stop it? On th...

Heavenly Physics -- Groks Science Show 2011-10-12

12 Oct 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Modern physics may seem remote from our daily lives, yet the discoveries in the field have the potential to change how we view the world. On this prog...

Holy War -- Groks Science Show 2011-10-05

05 Oct 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The expedition of Vasco Da Gama are often overshadowed by that of Columbus. But, these voyages perhaps more than those of Columbus changed the course ...

Attention -- Groks Science Show 2011-09-28

28 Sep 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The rapid changes in technology are straining even those dedicated to their development. How can the science of attention change the way we live, lear...

Digital Division -- Groks Science Show 2011-09-21

21 Sep 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Digital technology has revolutionized the modern world, but are there downsides to its influence on our personal lives and culture. On this program, P...

DASH Diet -- Groks Science Show 2011-09-14

14 Sep 2011

Contributed by Lukas

High blood pressure and hypertension are major health problems, yet in many cases, diet ay be a better treatment than prescription medication. On this...

Infinite Beginnings -- Groks Science Show 2011-09-07

07 Sep 2011

Contributed by Lukas

How are explanations of the world developed and how do we sort good and bad explanations? Is there a limit to our knowledge of the world? On this prog...

Absolutely Small -- Groks Science Show 2011-08-31

31 Aug 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Quantum mechanics may seem to be an intimidating topic, yet it is fundamental to understanding the everyday world. On this program, Prof. Michael Faye...

Apollo 15 -- Groks Science Show 2011-08-24

24 Aug 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The Apollo program is a landmark in the history of space exploration and perhaps the most successful mission of the series was Apollo 15. On this pro...

Anosmia -- Groks Science Show 2011-08-17

17 Aug 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The sense of smell may often seem to be expendable, yet it has a pivotal role in both our survival and hedonic enjoyment of food. On this program, Mol...

Memes -- Groks Science Show 2011-08-10

10 Aug 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Why do some ideas thrive, while others rarely see the light of day? Is there a competition for ideas and are they selected in much the same way that e...

Internet Scams -- Groks Science Show 2011-08-03

03 Aug 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The advent of new technologies has opened up a new avenue for scam artists. How do we protect ourselves against scams online and in daily life? On thi...

Wonderous Universe -- Groks Science Show 2011-07-27

27 Jul 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The universe is a large and mysterious place. How did it begin? How will it end? And, what are the steps along the way? On this program, Prof. Brian C...

Food Addiction -- Groks Science Show 2011-07-20

20 Jul 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Food addiction may be a major cause of obesity. What are the causes of food addiction and how can they be overcome? On this program, Hedley Turk discu...

Character Flux -- Groks Science Show 2011-07-06

06 Jul 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Although we often view our moral character as being immutable, behavioral research has begun to demonstrate the intense flexibility of our moral chara...

Medical Caveats -- Groks Science Show 2011-06-29

29 Jun 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Although medical care is ideally practicied in a fault free environment, avoiding mistakes can often be aided by vigilant patient awareness. On this p...

Disappearing Spoon -- Groks Science Show 2011-06-22

22 Jun 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The periodic table of the elements represents one of the crowning achievements of modern science. More surprising may be the history behind the table ...

Smart Medicine -- Groks Science Show 2011-06-15

15 Jun 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Advances in information technology are revolutioning the way medicine is practiced. Team-based and patient-centered models have begun to modernize med...

Bees -- Groks Science Show 2011-06-08

08 Jun 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Bees are remarkable creatures that serve an important role in agriculture. Yet, their numbers are dwindling due to disease and the fewer number of bee...

Sustainable Walmart -- Groks Science Show 2011-06-01

01 Jun 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Sustainability and Walmart are not generally uttered in the same breath. Yet, the largest retailer in the world is becoming greener. On this program, ...

Sexual Identity and Social Media -- Groks Science Show 2011-05-25

25 May 2011

Contributed by Lukas

University of Chicago associate professor of gynecology and obstetrics and chief of Family Planning, Dr. Melissa Gilliam joins us to discuss sexual he...

SuperCooperators -- Groks Science Show 2011-05-18

18 May 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Although competition may seem to drive the natural world, cooperation may be the bigger motivating force. On this program, Martin Nowak discussed supe...

Neural Populations -- Groks Science Show 2011-05-11

11 May 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Classical studies of the brain have relied on recording from single neurons at one time. However, understanding the interactions of multiple neurons r...

Panic Virus -- Groks Science Show 2011-05-04

04 May 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Author Seth Mnookin explores the science, or lack thereof, behind the anti-vaccine movement. Starting with legitimate fears surrounding the polio vacc...

Geek Dad -- Groks Science Show 2011-04-27

27 Apr 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Parenthood can be especially daunting, but being a geek may help. On this program, Ken Denmead discussed geeky activities for parents and their kids.

Environmental Biodiversity -- Groks Science Show 2011-04-20

20 Apr 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The changes to the environment caused by global warming have complex effects on the ecosystems of the earth. On this program, Richard Pearson discusse...

Career Science -- Groks Science Show 2011-04-13

13 Apr 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Becoming a professional scientist requires years of education culminating in an advanced degree. Yet, navigating a career in science requires more tha...

Zombie Politics -- Groks Science Show 2011-04-06

06 Apr 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Theories in political science enable several possible resolutions to various sociological and political situations, even to a zombie invasion. On this...

The Information -- Groks Science Show 2011-03-30

30 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Information has never been more facile and easy to obtain, such that managing it can be almost overhwelming. But, how is information defined scientifi...

Polar Bears -- Groks Science Show 2011-03-23

23 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Polar bears are iconic figures of the arctic. Yet, their habitat and existence is being threatened by ongoing changes to the global environment. On th...

New Cool -- Groks Science Show 2011-03-16

16 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The FIRST competition brings together students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. On this program, Neal Bascomb profiles one such te...

Belief Instinct -- Groks Science Show 2011-03-09

09 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The belief in god or a supernatural power permeates all of human civilization. How does such a belief arise from the normal biology of the human mind...

Forensic Beginnings -- Groks Science Show 2011-03-02

02 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Forensic science has developed many advanced methods to aid crimanologists. On this program, Douglas Starr discussed the origins of forensic science.

Tenth Anniversary -- Groks Science Show 2011-02-23

23 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The Groks Science Show turns ten years old this week. On this program, we look back at ten years of the Groks Science Show.

Sugar -- Groks Science Show 2011-02-16

16 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Sugar may seem like a common household ingredient, however the tortuous history and science behind the establishment of sugar has had global effects. ...

Space 2011 -- Groks Science Show 2011-02-09

09 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Space may be the final frontier, but exploring it will require plenty of ingenuity. What is in store for space exploration in 2011? On this program, T...

Pet Cloning -- Groks Science Show 2011-02-02

02 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Our pets provide years of enjoyment. So much so, that the possibility of preserving their existence indefinitely is a tantalizing prospect. On this pr...

Essential Oils -- Groks Science Show 2011-01-26

26 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The common cold and flu are major disrupters of daily life and result in several man-hours of lost productivity. But, what if these could be prevented...

Behavioral Happiness -- Groks Science Show 2011-01-19

19 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Are some people intrinsically happier than others or do they just exhibit happier behaviors? On this show, Shawn Achor discussed the science of happin...

Pebble Planet -- Groks Science Show 2011-01-12

12 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

What can a pebble tell us about the history of the earth? And, what are the geological tools that can unravel this mystery? On this program, Jan Zalas...

Climate Adaptation -- Groks Science Show 2011-01-05

05 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

How should we cope to the threat of climate change? On this program, Professor John Hay discusses strategies for climate adaptation and the role of th...

ADHD Therapy -- Groks Science Show 2010-12-29

29 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a commonly diagnosed in young children. However, alternatives exist to the common treatments. On th...

Ig Nobel 2010 -- Groks Science Show 2010-12-22

22 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Although most scientists strive to win a Nobel Prize, a handful are even luckier to win an Ig Nobel Prize. On this program, Marc Abrahams discussed th...

Sustainable Fungi -- Groks Science Show 2010-12-15

15 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Fungi is everywhere. It is a decomposer and it can be a parasite. But can it also be the key to environmental sustainability? On this program, Sue Van...

Mind and Self -- Groks Science Show 2010-12-08

08 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Consciousness may seem to be beyond the realm of scientific inquiry, but increasing experimental observations are detailing the neuronal correlates of...

Quantum Story -- Groks Science Show 2010-12-01

01 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The amazing technological developments of the modern age have been enabled in part through the advances in quantum physics. On this program, Prof. Jam...

Geek Cooking -- Groks Science Show 2010-11-24

24 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Science and cooking are intertwined. How can science be applied to create magnificent cuisine? On this program, Jeff Potter discussed cooking for geek...

Science versus Religion -- Groks Science Show 2010-11-17

17 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The continued clashes between science and religion over the theory of evolution appears to have no middle ground for agreement. But, can these two wor...

Social Psychology -- Groks Science Show 2010-11-10

10 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The theory of cognitive dissonance was one of the revolutionary ideas in social psychology, and it was developed by one of the pioneers in the field. ...

Logical Leap -- Groks Science Show 2010-11-03

03 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What is the process of induction and how does it benefit the progress of scientific ideas? On this program, David Harriman discussed the logical leap ...

Nature or Nurture -- Groks Science Show 2010-10-27

27 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What is in a name? How are our behaviors and outcomes determined? Does nature or nurture play the biggest role? On this program, Wes Moore discussed t...

Moral Landscape -- Groks Science Show 2010-10-20

20 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Morality is often viewed as being outside the domain of scientific inquiry, but is an objective understanding of morality possible? On this program, S...

Best Science Writing 2010 -- Groks Science Show 2010-10-13

13 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The broad and complex world of science is distilled by adept science writers who capture and lead the imagination. On this program, Jesse Cohen discus...

Evolution -- Groks Science Show 2010-10-06

06 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The theory of evolution continues to be supported by the weight of scientific evidence, yet the basic concepts and principles behind the theory contin...

Cheap Genome -- Groks Science Show 2010-09-29

29 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Genetic sequencing once was a prohibitively costly endeavor costing billions of dollars and untold number of man-hours. Yet, the price for sequencing ...

Mantids -- Groks Science Show 2010-09-22

22 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Mantids are a diverse and amazing order of insects, whose attributes continue to amaze and astound scientists. On this program, Dr. Gavin Svenson and ...

Future Weather -- Groks Science Show 2010-09-15

15 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What will the weather of the future be like? What do current trends tell us about changes to the global environment. On this program, Heidi Cullen dis...

Hot Math -- Groks Science Show 2010-09-08

08 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Math may often seem daunting and unapproachable, even for professional mathematicians. Luckily, math can also be viewed as hot and sexy. On this progr...

Cancer Nutrition -- Groks Science Show 2010-09-01

01 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Cancer is a formidable disease, but overcoming it is aided by proper nutrition during therapy. On this program, Jodi Buckman Weinstein discussed prope...

Planet X -- Groks Science Show 2010-08-25

25 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The discovery of Pluto has received much attention lately, however capturing the zeitgeist of the time may best be achieved with some literary liberti...

Voyager -- Groks Science Show 2010-08-18

18 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The Voyager spacecraft have given us our best glimpse of the outer planets. But, how do these missions fit into a broader history of exploration? On t...

Smart Swarm -- Groks Science Show 2010-08-11

11 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Swarm behavior is found throughout nature in ants, birds and even humans. But, what is a smart swarm and how can we learn from them? On this program, ...

Beyond Resistance -- Groks Science Show 2010-08-04

04 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Resistance is not futile. It is just extremely difficult to overcome. How does one overcome resistance to change within an organization? On this progr...

Unconventional Archaeology -- Groks Science Show 2010-07-28

28 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Archaeology is often portrayed as a romantic adventure to the remote corners of the globe. But, what is the life of an archaeologist really like? On t...

Cancer Canines -- Groks Science Show 2010-07-21

21 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Prostate cancer is a major issue for men. And, early detection is important for improving the odds of survival. Yet, it turns out dogs may help in det...

Scientific Phenomenalist -- Groks Science Show 2010-07-14

14 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What is a scientific phenomenalist? And, how does it relate to rock music? On this program, David Lovering discussed his endeavors as a scientific phe...

Number Theory -- Groks Science Show 2010-07-07

07 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What is the basis for the common numerical counting systems found in mathematics? And, how do these vary across the globe? On this program, Alex Bello...

Universe Verse -- Groks Science Show 2010-06-30

30 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The universe is very large, which makes understanding its origins complicated. But, the fundamental principles are readily accessible with some creati...

Bonobo Handshake -- Groks Science Show 2010-06-23

23 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Bonobos have been described as the peace-loving apes. But, how is this related to a bonobo handshake? On this program, Vanessa Woods discussed the Bon...

Ants -- Groks Science Show 2010-06-16

16 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Ants are amazing creatures due to their variety, ubiquity, and complexity of behavior. And, they share many unique features with humans. On this progr...

Success Science -- Groks Science Show 2010-06-09

09 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What separates elite athletes from the weekend warriors? How is it possible to achieve high performance in any endeavor? On this program, Matthew Syed...

Little Strings -- Groks Science Show 2010-06-02

02 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

String theory may explain the fundamental properties of the universe. But, who can explain string theory? On this program, Steven Gubser discussed the...

Global Hothouse -- Groks Science Show 2010-05-26

26 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Environmental threats from global warming may be ameliorated by natural processes occurring on the earth. On this program, Melanie Lenart discussed li...