Why do we do the things we do? Mike Williams searches for the extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions to inform us about the way we live in the 21st Century. Broadcast and podcast every Friday.
Episodes available:
Indefinitely 
Fri, 14 Jun 13
Duration:
18 mins
Why can this seemingly every day activity mean so many different things for millions around the world?
Fri, 7 Jun 13
Duration:
18 mins
Whether viewed from the shore, out on the waves or under the surface people flock to the ocean. Mike Williams asks why are we drawn to the sea?
Fri, 31 May 13
Duration:
18 mins
Make-up is a multi-million dollar industry with sales around the world but are we just being sold a dream or is there something more innate in why we wear it?
Fri, 24 May 13
Duration:
18 mins
Why do we like playing with a ball? Mike Williams finds out how ball games first evolved, and what that says about us.
Fri, 17 May 13
Duration:
18 mins
We all do it… don’t we? If your answer is no perhaps you’re doing it right now. This week Mike Williams explores why we lie.
Fri, 10 May 13
Duration:
18 mins
Disgust is an emotion that we all experience, but what purpose does it serve? And what role does it play in our moral judgements?
Fri, 3 May 13
Duration:
18 mins
Mike Williams asks why do we live with cats and dogs and what does our choice of pet say about us?
Fri, 26 Apr 13
Duration:
18 mins
That gold is rare and valuable is of course well known but beyond that why are so many people around the world obsessed with it?
Fri, 19 Apr 13
Duration:
18 mins
It’s something that all individuals and societies have done for millions of years. But why do we sing?
Fri, 12 Apr 13
Duration:
18 mins
Why do humans kiss? Is it a universal trait? When European explorers travelled the world, they met tribes that didn’t kiss. So is it a learnt response after all?
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The world's greatest authors discuss their best known novel. This monthly programme, presented by Harriett Gilbert, includes questions by BBC World Service listeners.
Sat, 1 Jun 13
53 minutes
This podcast features Open Book and A Good Read. In Open Book, Mariella Frostrup talks to leading authors about their work. A Good Read features Harriett Gilbert discussing a range of favourite titles…
22 hours ago
27 minutes
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