Have you ever listened to the Science Focus Podcast but? We discuss to the brightest names in science and expertise concerning the concepts and breakthroughs shaping our world. Possibly we’re a bit biased, however we expect it’s a fantastic podcast.
In case you haven’t been listening all 12 months, otherwise you’d prefer to revisit a few of this 12 months’s prime hits. we’ve put collectively an inventory of our very favorite episodes from 2020. And in case you haven’t already, subscribe to the Science Focus Podcast on these companies: Acast, iTunes, Stitcher, RSS and Overcast.
Loot containers: love or loath them, they’re now a normal mechanic in mainstream gaming – that includes in FIFA, Fortnite, Overwatch and extra. However can they decrease gamers’ moods and encourage addictive playing? Or are any considerations overblown?
In an in-depth interview, professor of psychology Dr Pete Etchells explores these questions, explaining how different nations have tackled the problem – and the way sport builders are removed from evil. – Thomas Ling, Employees Author at BBC Science Focus Journal
Anybody who thinks working in science isn’t enjoyable ought to take a look at the work of archeoacoustics professor Trevor Cox.
As a part of his work on the College of Salford this 12 months he received to construct a 3D-printed scale mannequin of Stonehenge. His aim was to research the impact the mysterious monument’s distinctive construction would’ve had on conversations, rituals, and even music. I caught up with him earlier within the 12 months to speak to him about his strategies, outcomes, and the mannequin’s uncanny similarity to the one in Spinal Faucet. – Jason Goodyer, Commissioning Editor at BBC Science Focus Journal
While you think about a robotic, you most likely consider one thing made principally of metallic or possibly plastic. Ritu Raman’s robots, then again, are made utilizing organic supplies.
What this implies is that they will heal from injury and get stronger with train, similar to our pores and skin and muscle tissue. Raman has created a robotic that may stroll utilizing a hoop of 3D-printed muscle, and hopes to make use of this expertise to construct units that may be implanted into the human physique.
It’s nonetheless early days on this discipline of analysis, however it was fascinating to listen to from a pioneer who’s setting the groundwork for an thrilling future. – Sara Rigby, On-line Assistant at BBC Science Focus Journal
Biases impression all the pieces round us, from private {and professional} relationships to jury selections and even scientific analysis. On this episode, Dr Pragya Agarwal, a behavioural and knowledge scientist, author and founding father of The 50 % Venture assume tank, discusses unconscious biases and prejudices.
With years of studying – and unlearning – Dr Agarwal is ready to expertly outlines the expansive implicit and express biases all of us battle with and the way these develop over time. Whereas worrying to listen to how pervasive these biases are, the concept we are able to begin actively difficult them made me longing for the longer term. By addressing our personal privilege and transferring past superficial consciousness of biases, we are able to start to undo the adverse impacts of those biases.
Listening to Dr Agarwal clarify the number of areas she’s researched and written about in Sway: Unravelling Unconscious Bias made me add it the highest of my Christmas studying listing. – Frankie Macpherson, Intern Journalist at BBC Science Focus Journal
It’s a topic we are inclined to keep away from: demise. However Professor Dame Sue Black is surrounded by it, despatched physique elements to establish, tales to unravel, human ‘jigsaw puzzles’ to place collectively.
That’s the job of the forensic anthropologist. It’s really slightly totally different to what’s portrayed on tv, however it’s fascinating to take heed to Prof Black speak about her life and profession – although maybe not for the squeamish.
When you’re a fan of unbelievable in style science books, I’d advocate choosing up her newest publication, Written in Bone: Hidden stories in what we leave behind (£18.99, Transworld). – Amy Barrett, Editorial Assistant at BBC Science Focus Journal
Extra nice episodes from 2020:
