Stuff You Should Know

There may be trillions of dollars' worth of resources in asteroids, and some scientists believe we could mine nearby asteroids. Join Josh and Chuck as they explore how asteroid mining might work (and why we haven't done it yet). Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the psychological underpinnings and motivations behind suicide bombings. Delve into the historical context, including the evolution of martyrdom across various religions. The discussion also examines media portrayals and the humanization of bomber families. Learn about the intricate links between faith, extremism, and societal repercussions. Finally, uncover the moral dilemmas and complexities surrounding these tragic acts.

Alternately hailed a crucial part of the human condition or accused of killing cats, curiosity remains a subject of debate among researchers. Where does it come from? How does it work? Join Chuck and Josh as they explore the mysterious roots of curiosity. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how military snipers work and their impact on the battlefield. Explore the role of spotters and the dynamics between snipers and their spotters. Discover interesting topics like internet hunting, gilly suits, and a home cocktail maker. Hear about the intense training and tactics of military snipers, as well as their goals and strategies. The podcast also features a heartfelt listener mail segment.

Thomas Malthus concluded that humanity is bound to outgrow Earth's carrying capacity. The prediction was based on humanity's exponential growth and the linear growth of the food supply -- but was he correct? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As early as 1786, groups assembled to help slaves escape lives of bondage. And, as the 19th century progressed, the emergent Underground Railroad grew more sophisticated in aiding escaped slaves. But how did it work? Join Josh and Chuck to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fear results from your brain's reaction to a stressful stimulus, and -- though it may be unpleasant -- it plays a crucial role in the life of every human being. But how does it work (and why)? Join Josh and Chuck as they explore the sensation of fear. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sure, nicotine doesn't cause cancer, but it does rearrange the brain's reward system. Humans have been ingesting this plant for more than 6,000 years, but we generally understood little of it. Join Chuck and Josh as they explain how nicotine works. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether through revolution, colonization or other means, every country has its start somewhere. But how does the process work? Join Josh and Chuck as they explain how countries get created -- and why some countries aren't always recognized by others. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Terror management theory isn't about mid-level bureaucrats in Al-Qaeda -- so what exactly is it, and what does it say about human culture and our perception of mortality? Join Chuck and Josh as they explore the implications of terror management theory. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.