The psychologist Chris French has spent decades studying paranormal claims and mysterious experiences, from seemingly impossible coincidences to paintings that purportedly predict the future. In this episode from April 2024, Ian Sample sits down with French to explore why so many of us believe in what he terms ‘weird shit’, and what we can learn from underst ... Show More
Aug 20
It’s finally raining. Will it be enough to end the drought?
After a summer that has seen England and Wales experience the driest July since records began, rain is finally on the horizon. But with reservoirs at ‘exceptionally low’ levels, will there be enough rain to replenish stocks? Madeleine Finlay hears from Dr Anna Murgatroyd, a lectu ... Show More
15m 57s
Aug 18
The ultra rich are collecting fossils, and that’s bad for science
One of the UK’s best fossil collections has been sold overseas in what experts have called a loss to the nation. The collection, which is now on display at the Natural History Museum in Abu Dhabi, was gathered on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. As dinosaur fossils sell to private collec ... Show More
14m 56s
Oct 2021
Ghosts, Ouija boards and ESP: psychology and the paranormal, with Chris French, PhD
Just in time for Halloween, we talk about the psychology of strange stuff – including ghostly visitations, alien abductions, ESP, and more – with Chris French, PhD, head of the anomalistic psychology unit at Goldsmiths, University of London. Dr. French discusses how psychological ... Show More
40m 10s
Nov 2017
Creepypasta 4: More SCP, Polybius and Grifter
<p>Dive into a world of indestructible reptiles, killer video games, bizarre god towers and haunted video tapes as Robert and Christian take on a fourth helping of creepypasta. Join them on Stuff to Blow Your Mind as they seek scientific, psychological and cultural connections be ... Show More
1h 24m
Dec 2010
The Rock Star Weirdo Lives of Scientists
<p>It's no secret that genius and eccentricity are related, but scientists can be downright weird. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore the bizarre lives of history's greatest scientists. Tune in to learn more about clairvoyant dwarves, Tesla and more.</p><p> </p> Learn more ... Show More
38m 13s
Jan 2016
X-Files Science Part I: Mutants & Parasites
<p>With the return of television's The X-Files, it's never been a better time to look at the science behind the show. Join Joe and Christian as they examine the possibilities of classic Monsters of the Week, including otherworldly parasites, killer mutants, talking tattoos and mo ... Show More
1h 17m