Stepwell Radio

What do we really mean when we talk about intelligence? Is it an inherent trait, a measurable ability, or a concept shaped by society itself?

In this episode, we trace the evolution of intelligence as an idea beginning with the early 20th century work of Alfred Binet and Théodore Simon, who designed intelligence tests to support children’s learning, not define their potential. Over time, however, intelligence came to be viewed as fixed and hereditary, often intertwined with notions of race, geography, and genetic “fitness.”

This discussion critically examines how scientific concepts like intelligence are not developed in isolation, but are influenced by social hierarchies, political contexts, and cultural frameworks. How did a tool for educational support transform into a marker of inherent ability? And what does this shift reveal about the relationship between science and society?

We’ve traded intuition for instructions and aesthetics for reality. This week, we’re looking at how "finishing" became the enemy of "learning" and how "beautifcation' of food and standarization of education interlap. From the sterile precision of modern recipes and supermarket food to the transactional nature of the 4-year degree, we discuss why the obsession with the end goal is stripping the art out of our lives. Is it possible to find the joy again? Let’s get back to the "why" and leave the "how-to" behind.

We like to believe that every purchase we make is logical and well thought out but is it really? In this episode, we step into the world of behavioural economics to uncover why people often buy things they don’t actually need. Challenging the idea of the “rational consumer,” we explore how our decisions are shaped not just by price or utility, but by emotions, habits and subtle psychological triggers.

From impulse buys to brand loyalty, we break down how cognitive biases, social influence, and even the way choices are presented can quietly steer our decisions. Whether it’s a limited time offer or the fear of missing out, every purchase has a story behind it and it’s not always as rational as it seems.

What if the "flaw" you noticed this morning wasn't really yours to notice? We live in a world where images, ideals, and ideas about perfection surround us constantly, be it in our social media feeds, in ads, or in the quiet suggestion that who we are right now isn't quite enough. This episode asks: Where do these feelings come from?

Blending psychology with the world of marketing, Behind every purchase explores how beauty standards, self-improvement culture, and the concept of confidence itself are quietly shaped by what we're repeatedly shown. It's not about rejecting the products we love or the ways we choose to care for ourselves, but about understanding the deeper forces at play, and becoming a little more conscious of the currents pulling at our attention every day.

xHave you ever wondered if what you want is truly yours? In this episode, we explore the idea of mimetic desire, introduced by René Girard, which suggests that our wants are often shaped by the people around us. From social media trends to career goals and personal choices, imitation quietly influences how we think, act, and aspire. As we unpack this concept, we begin to question whether our desires are authentic or simply reflections of others offering a fresh perspective on identity, influence, and the world we navigate every day.

We also look at how this invisible imitation plays out in everyday life from the pressure to keep up with trends to the subtle comparisons that shape our ambitions and self worth. The episode brings out how easily we slip into borrowed desires without even realising it and why becoming aware of this pattern can help us reclaim a sense of individuality in a world that constantly nudges us to follow.

From carbon markets to corporate responsibility, two conversations at the frontier of environmental economics. Featuring Prof. Colmer on EU emissions policy & Prof. Bansal on how firms navigate regulation, social pressure, and sustainability.

Tune in to know more about how carbon markets, corporate responsibility, and environmental policy are shaping the future of our planet.

Family Influences who we become, but what if we said something as simple as your place in the family played a larger role than you'd expect. Alfred Adler proposed exactly this - birth order theory, where your position in the family influenced and shaped your personality. Whether you are the first born, the middle or the youngest - your personality is shaped by the order you're born in.

Tune in as we explore and understand Adler's birth order theory, how birth order influences roles and responsibilities in life and hence, influences our personality. Let's unpack the psychology behind birth-order and discover how your position in your family may reveal more about you than you'd like to admit this Saturday

Astrology has long occupied a significant place in cultural and historical traditions, shaping how individuals interpret personality, relationships, and uncertainty in everyday life. Yet it also raises important questions about the boundary between belief systems and empirical evidence.

This episode examines the enduring influence of astrology from horoscopes and zodiac identities to related practices such as crystals and tarot while considering why these frameworks continue to resonate in contemporary society. By situating astrology within broader discussions of culture, psychology, and scientific skepticism, the conversation invites listeners to reflect on how humans seek meaning in both the cosmos and their own experiences.

Why do stories written decades or even centuries ago still manage to capture our imagination today? In this episode, we dive into our lasting fascination with classic literature and the magic of seeing these beloved stories come alive on screen. From timeless novels to modern film and television adaptations, we explore how these narratives continue to evolve while still holding on to their original charm.

We also look at the delicate art of adaptation. What makes a book to screen adaptation truly successful? Is it staying faithful to the original story, or bringing a fresh creative vision to it? Through thoughtful discussion, we examine the unique creative signatures that different adaptations bring and the challenges creators face when translating literature into visual storytelling.

What do our favourite childhood movies and environmental activism have in common? More than we ever realised. The films that once made us laugh, cry, and sing along were also quietly planting ideas about compassion for animals, respect for forests, and the fragile balance of nature. Long before climate change became a daily headline, these stories were showing us habitats under threat, species struggling to survive, and the consequences of human greed. As children, we saw adventure and emotion. As adults, we begin to see awareness and activism woven into every frame.

In this episode, we revisit films like Dumbo, The Lorax, Bambi, and Rio to uncover the environmental messages layered beneath their colourful storytelling. From deforestation and exploitation to wildlife conservation and second chances for endangered species, we explore how these animated classics shaped our early understanding of the natural world.