Each week, we at Secret Life keep our eyes peeled for the best science stories in the public broadcasting space, so you don’t have to.
The Descendant of Carnivorous Wolves.
Science Friday: Canine Conundrum: How Dog Became Man’s Best Friend
Of all the animals to domesticate, why choose a carnivore descended from wolves? And did we choose them, or did they choose us? Scientists debate how - and when - dogs entered our homes. Using archaeological records and genetic research, this piece explores the long and complicated history of humans and dogs.
Radio Lab: Nothing’s the Antimatter
Somewhere between the Big Bang and now, matter formed, allowing us to exist. In this fascinating piece, our own Neil deGrasse Tyson explains the “deeply shocking” belch that transformed primordial soup into the particles that form our eyes and arms and brains, along with the entire world around us. Well. Excuse YOU, universe.
NPR Science: Pig Out In The Winter Or When Money’s Tight? Blame Evolution
Prehistoric man tucked away the calories in preparation for a famine. With this evolutionary trait in mind, can we blame our nation’s obesity problem on the recession? Ladies and gentleman, may we present - another (scientific!) excuse for chowing down on some Ben & Jerry’s in the dead of winter.
We should all be totally cool with giant, un-manned robots, right? See for yourself in this piece on the rise of extremely large (or frighteningly small), intelligent vehicles peeled right out of a science fiction novel.
Who says art and science don’t match? Sabine Seymour blends fashion and technology to make clothes that light up, sound off, sense touch - and look awesome. Eat your heart out, Lady Gaga.
