Everybody forms a model of the natural world based on their experience with it. However, sometimes these models are flawed and lead to superstitious beliefs. On this program, Dr. Bruce Hood discussed the origins of superstitious beliefs and why we believe in the unbelievable.

The pharmaceutical industry has produced numerous medications for a wide range of ailments. However, not all of these medications may be the safest, cheapest, or most efficacious form of treatment. On this program, Dr. John Abramson discussed Overdosed America.

Modern warfare increasingly utilizes robotic weaponry. Yet, the rules of robotic engagement have not been developed as completely as the technology. On this program, Dr. P.W. Singer discussed the challenges of robotic warfare.

Modern vaccines have contained many diseases in the world. Yet, despite their success, or perhaps because of it, dubious concerns have been raised regarding their safety and necessity. On this program, Dr. Martin Myers discussed the safety of modern vaccines.

The search for alternative fuel sources is a major concern, and ethanol is a factor in this new energy market. New technologies for converting cellulose to ethanol may help supply much of the demand. On this program, Arnold Klann discussed bluefire ethanol.

Living a long and healthy life is possible with the right combination of food and exercise. And, new research is demonstrating the importance of polyphenols, such as resveratrol. On this program, Dr. Joseph Maroon discussed the longevity factor.

The oceans are essential for human survival. The Sant Ocean Hall at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History seeks to educate the public about the importance of the oceans. On this program, Deborah Cramer discussed Smithsonian Ocean, Our Water, Our World.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is considered the bible of modern psychiatry. However, many of the listed disorders are not without controversy. On this program, Prof. Christopher Lane discussed the issues surrounding the DSM IV.

Large numbers and statistics constantly bombard us in the news, but putting those numbers into context is essential for understanding their real meaning. On this program, Andrew Dilnot from Oxford University discussed the numbers game.

Darwin Day, celebrated on Feb. 12, marks the 200th birthday anniversary of Charles Darwin and the 150th anniversary of his famed publication, On the Origin of Species. Yet, despite the overwhelming evidence supporting the modern evolutionary theory, controversy still abounds. On this program, Prof. Jerry Coyne from the University of Chicago discussed why evolution is true.