Talk of the Nation http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5&ft=1&f=5 Journalist Neal Conan leads a productive exchange of ideas and opinions on the issues that dominate the news landscape. From politics and public service to education, religion, music and health care, Talk of the Nation offers call-in listeners the opportunity to join enlightening discussions with decision-makers, authors, academicians and artists from around the world. en Copyright 2013 NPR - For Personal Use Only NPR API RSS Generator 0.94 Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://media.npr.org/images/podcasts/thumbnail/npr_talkofnation_full_75.jpg Talk of the Nation http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5&ft=1&f=5 'Crazy Ants' Spreading In The Southeastern US In parts of the southeastern US, aggressive fire ants have been driven out by an even more recent arrival, the tawny crazy ant. Edward LeBrun, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, describes the newcomers and how one invasive species can out-invade another. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450907/crazy-ants-spreading-in-the-southeastern-us?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450907/crazy-ants-spreading-in-the-southeastern-us?ft=1&f=5 In parts of the southeastern US, aggressive fire ants have been driven out by an even more recent arrival, the tawny crazy ant. Edward LeBrun, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, describes the newcomers and how one invasive species can out-invade another. 473 no In parts of the southeastern US, aggressive fire ants have been driven out by an even more recent arrival, the tawny crazy ant. Edward LeBrun, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, describes the newcomers and how one invasive species can out-invade another.

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]]> Having a Dog May Mean Having Extra Microbes North Carolina State University biologist Rob Dunn and colleagues surveyed people's pillow cases, refrigerators, toilet seats, TV screens and other household spots, to learn about the microbes that dwell in our homes. Among the findings, reported in the journal PLoS One, homes with dogs had more diverse bacterial communities, and higher numbers of "dog-associated" bacteria. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450897/having-a-dog-may-mean-having-extra-microbes?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450897/having-a-dog-may-mean-having-extra-microbes?ft=1&f=5 North Carolina State University biologist Rob Dunn and colleagues surveyed people's pillow cases, refrigerators, toilet seats, TV screens and other household spots, to learn about the microbes that dwell in our homes. Among the findings, reported in the journal PLoS One, homes with dogs had more diverse bacterial communities, and higher numbers of "dog-associated" bacteria. 810 no North Carolina State University biologist Rob Dunn and colleagues surveyed people's pillow cases, refrigerators, toilet seats, TV screens and other household spots, to learn about the microbes that dwell in our homes. Among the findings, reported in the journal PLoS One, homes with dogs had more diverse bacterial communities, and higher numbers of "dog-associated" bacteria.

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]]> Tackling New Tech In The Golden Years Smartphones, tablets and computers could help seniors stay connected to their communities and families. But a hefty price tag, steep learning curves, and designs meant for younger eyes and hands could keep some older adults from logging on. Guests discuss the best ways for seniors to tackle new technology, and how devices can be adapted to accommodate older users. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450899/tackling-new-tech-in-the-golden-years?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450899/tackling-new-tech-in-the-golden-years?ft=1&f=5 Smartphones, tablets and computers could help seniors stay connected to their communities and families. But a hefty price tag, steep learning curves, and designs meant for younger eyes and hands could keep some older adults from logging on. Guests discuss the best ways for seniors to tackle new technology, and how devices can be adapted to accommodate older users. 1612 no Smartphones, tablets and computers could help seniors stay connected to their communities and families. But a hefty price tag, steep learning curves, and designs meant for younger eyes and hands could keep some older adults from logging on. Guests discuss the best ways for seniors to tackle new technology, and how devices can be adapted to accommodate older users.

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]]> Tracking Killer Tornadoes A series of tornadoes struck the central United States this week, including a powerful storm in Oklahoma that killed at least 24 people. Marshall Shepherd, the president of the American Meteorological Society, describes the ingredients of major tornadoes, and how they are predicted. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450901/tracking-killer-tornadoes?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450901/tracking-killer-tornadoes?ft=1&f=5 A series of tornadoes struck the central United States this week, including a powerful storm in Oklahoma that killed at least 24 people. Marshall Shepherd, the president of the American Meteorological Society, describes the ingredients of major tornadoes, and how they are predicted. 526 no A series of tornadoes struck the central United States this week, including a powerful storm in Oklahoma that killed at least 24 people. Marshall Shepherd, the president of the American Meteorological Society, describes the ingredients of major tornadoes, and how they are predicted.

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]]> Studies Question Potential Alzheimer's Treatment Last year scientists reported that a skin cancer drug appeared to reverse the effects of an Alzheimer's-like disease in mice. But four studies out this week in <em>Science</em> question the original results. Ronald Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinic's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, talks about the new findings, and the hunt for Alzheimer's drugs. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450903/studies-question-potential-alzheimers-treatment?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450903/studies-question-potential-alzheimers-treatment?ft=1&f=5 Last year scientists reported that a skin cancer drug appeared to reverse the effects of an Alzheimer's-like disease in mice. But four studies out this week in <em>Science</em> question the original results. Ronald Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinic's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, talks about the new findings, and the hunt for Alzheimer's drugs. 809 no Last year scientists reported that a skin cancer drug appeared to reverse the effects of an Alzheimer's-like disease in mice. But four studies out this week in Science question the original results. Ronald Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinic's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, talks about the new findings, and the hunt for Alzheimer's drugs.

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]]> Reinventing Farming For A Changing Climate Scientists say climate change could increase pests and weeds, lengthen growing seasons and turn dry soil to dust. Farmers are already on the offensive, adopting no-till cropping methods to conserve water and experimenting with different seeds. And scientists are using a technique called gene silencing to develop new crops--without tinkering with the plants' DNA. Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450905/reinventing-farming-for-a-changing-climate?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/186450905/reinventing-farming-for-a-changing-climate?ft=1&f=5 Scientists say climate change could increase pests and weeds, lengthen growing seasons and turn dry soil to dust. Farmers are already on the offensive, adopting no-till cropping methods to conserve water and experimenting with different seeds. And scientists are using a technique called gene silencing to develop new crops--without tinkering with the plants' DNA. 1666 no Scientists say climate change could increase pests and weeds, lengthen growing seasons and turn dry soil to dust. Farmers are already on the offensive, adopting no-till cropping methods to conserve water and experimenting with different seeds. And scientists are using a technique called gene silencing to develop new crops--without tinkering with the plants' DNA.

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]]> The President's Remarks On The Future Of National Security In a speech at the National Defense University, President Barack Obama addresses the use of U.S. drones to target terrorists — including U.S. citizens — and his renewed efforts to close the military prison at Guantanamo Bay. Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286684/the-presidents-remarks-on-the-future-of-national-security?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286684/the-presidents-remarks-on-the-future-of-national-security?ft=1&f=5 In a speech at the National Defense University, President Barack Obama addresses the use of U.S. drones to target terrorists — including U.S. citizens — and his renewed efforts to close the military prison at Guantanamo Bay. 3957 no In a speech at the National Defense University, President Barack Obama addresses the use of U.S. drones to target terrorists — including U.S. citizens — and his renewed efforts to close the military prison at Guantanamo Bay.

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]]> A Look Ahead To The Flash Point In The South China Sea Beijing continues to pressure its neighbors over strings of disputed areas in the South China Sea that reportedly hold massive deposits of oil and gas. The ongoing disputes raise serious questions about China's goals in the region and how the United States should address escalating tensions. Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286686/a-look-ahead-to-the-flash-point-in-the-south-china-sea?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286686/a-look-ahead-to-the-flash-point-in-the-south-china-sea?ft=1&f=5 Beijing continues to pressure its neighbors over strings of disputed areas in the South China Sea that reportedly hold massive deposits of oil and gas. The ongoing disputes raise serious questions about China's goals in the region and how the United States should address escalating tensions. 1820 no Beijing continues to pressure its neighbors over strings of disputed areas in the South China Sea that reportedly hold massive deposits of oil and gas. The ongoing disputes raise serious questions about China's goals in the region and how the United States should address escalating tensions.

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]]> A Read Down Memory Lane: Lessons From Your Former Self Writings from childhood — cards, stories and other notes — can hide for decades, like time capsules tucked away in boxes, old bedrooms, attics and journals. Writer Jim Sollisch talks about how old thank you notes from his youth foreshadowed his adult life. Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286688/a-read-down-memory-lane-lessons-from-your-former-self?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/23/186286688/a-read-down-memory-lane-lessons-from-your-former-self?ft=1&f=5 Writings from childhood — cards, stories and other notes — can hide for decades, like time capsules tucked away in boxes, old bedrooms, attics and journals. Writer Jim Sollisch talks about how old thank you notes from his youth foreshadowed his adult life. 1019 no Writings from childhood — cards, stories and other notes — can hide for decades, like time capsules tucked away in boxes, old bedrooms, attics and journals. Writer Jim Sollisch talks about how old thank you notes from his youth foreshadowed his adult life.

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]]> With White House Bogged Down By Scandal, GOP Looks For Boost As criticism of the Obama administration over a string of scandals grows, conservatives see an opportunity to gain momentum for 2014 races. Host Neal Conan and Political Junkie Ken Rudin talk with political science professor Jack Pitney about the GOP and the re-emergence of the Tea Party. Plus: the week in politics from Anthony Weiner's New York mayoral candidacy to the Senate immigration bill. Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=186048336&ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=186048336&ft=1&f=5 As criticism of the Obama administration over a string of scandals grows, conservatives see an opportunity to gain momentum for 2014 races. Host Neal Conan and Political Junkie Ken Rudin talk with political science professor Jack Pitney about the GOP and the re-emergence of the Tea Party. Plus: the week in politics from Anthony Weiner's New York mayoral candidacy to the Senate immigration bill. 1820 no As criticism of the Obama administration over a string of scandals grows, conservatives see an opportunity to gain momentum for 2014 races. Host Neal Conan and Political Junkie Ken Rudin talk with political science professor Jack Pitney about the GOP and the re-emergence of the Tea Party. Plus: the week in politics from Anthony Weiner's New York mayoral candidacy to the Senate immigration bill.

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]]> Why Urban Dictionary Comes In Handy On The Witness Stand The use of slang in court proceedings can be tricky, especially in criminal cases where an uncommon slang term used by a witness can make a difference in a case. <em>New York Times</em> tech reporter Leslie Kaufman and law professor Greg Lastowka talk about how judges and lawyers have turned to sites like Urban Dictionary to help define slang terms and the legal implications of the trend. Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/22/186048338/why-urban-dictionary-comes-in-handy-on-the-witness-stand?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/22/186048338/why-urban-dictionary-comes-in-handy-on-the-witness-stand?ft=1&f=5 The use of slang in court proceedings can be tricky, especially in criminal cases where an uncommon slang term used by a witness can make a difference in a case. <em>New York Times</em> tech reporter Leslie Kaufman and law professor Greg Lastowka talk about how judges and lawyers have turned to sites like Urban Dictionary to help define slang terms and the legal implications of the trend. 1016 no The use of slang in court proceedings can be tricky, especially in criminal cases where an uncommon slang term used by a witness can make a difference in a case. New York Times tech reporter Leslie Kaufman and law professor Greg Lastowka talk about how judges and lawyers have turned to sites like Urban Dictionary to help define slang terms and the legal implications of the trend.

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]]> Looking Ahead: Peter Bergen on Al-Qaida Two years after the death of Osama bin Laden, the U.S. continues to warn of the threat posed by the terrorist organization he led. As part of our "Looking Ahead" series, Peter Bergen, CNN national security analyst and author of <em>Manhunt: The Ten-Year Search for Bin Laden from 9/11 to Abbottabad</em>, talks about the future of al-Qaida. Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=186048340&ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=186048340&ft=1&f=5 Two years after the death of Osama bin Laden, the U.S. continues to warn of the threat posed by the terrorist organization he led. As part of our "Looking Ahead" series, Peter Bergen, CNN national security analyst and author of <em>Manhunt: The Ten-Year Search for Bin Laden from 9/11 to Abbottabad</em>, talks about the future of al-Qaida. 1820 no Two years after the death of Osama bin Laden, the U.S. continues to warn of the threat posed by the terrorist organization he led. As part of our "Looking Ahead" series, Peter Bergen, CNN national security analyst and author of Manhunt: The Ten-Year Search for Bin Laden from 9/11 to Abbottabad, talks about the future of al-Qaida.

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]]> How That 'Nigerian Email Scam' Got Started You've probably seen it in your inbox before: Someone who claims to have come into a fortune needs your help. You can share in the profits — if you send along a deposit or your bank account number. <em>Boston Globe</em> correspondent Finn Brunton talks about the history of the "Nigerian prince" or "419" scam, which actually got its start long before email. Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/22/186048342/how-that-nigerian-email-scam-got-started?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/22/186048342/how-that-nigerian-email-scam-got-started?ft=1&f=5 You've probably seen it in your inbox before: Someone who claims to have come into a fortune needs your help. You can share in the profits — if you send along a deposit or your bank account number. <em>Boston Globe</em> correspondent Finn Brunton talks about the history of the "Nigerian prince" or "419" scam, which actually got its start long before email. 1007 no You've probably seen it in your inbox before: Someone who claims to have come into a fortune needs your help. You can share in the profits — if you send along a deposit or your bank account number. Boston Globe correspondent Finn Brunton talks about the history of the "Nigerian prince" or "419" scam, which actually got its start long before email.

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]]> When Tornadoes Are A Way Of Life Monday's tornado tore through parts of Oklahoma City at 200 miles per hour and killed at least 24 people. Many more are missing orinjured. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to KOSU reporter Michael Cross and to meteorologist Paul Douglas about why it's so hard to track tornadoes. Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809735/when-tornadoes-are-a-way-of-life?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809735/when-tornadoes-are-a-way-of-life?ft=1&f=5 Monday's tornado tore through parts of Oklahoma City at 200 miles per hour and killed at least 24 people. Many more are missing orinjured. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to KOSU reporter Michael Cross and to meteorologist Paul Douglas about why it's so hard to track tornadoes. 1822 no Monday's tornado tore through parts of Oklahoma City at 200 miles per hour and killed at least 24 people. Many more are missing orinjured. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to KOSU reporter Michael Cross and to meteorologist Paul Douglas about why it's so hard to track tornadoes.

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]]> Would Lowering The Drunk Driving Threshold Make Us Safer? The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended reducing the legal limit for blood alcohol content for drivers from .08 to .05. Critics say it won't significantly help prevent drunken driving. Guest LZ Granderson argues that without more checkpoints, a lower threshold would do nothing. Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809737/would-lowering-the-drunk-driving-threshold-help?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809737/would-lowering-the-drunk-driving-threshold-help?ft=1&f=5 The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended reducing the legal limit for blood alcohol content for drivers from .08 to .05. Critics say it won't significantly help prevent drunken driving. Guest LZ Granderson argues that without more checkpoints, a lower threshold would do nothing. 1018 no The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended reducing the legal limit for blood alcohol content for drivers from .08 to .05. Critics say it won't significantly help prevent drunken driving. Guest LZ Granderson argues that without more checkpoints, a lower threshold would do nothing.

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]]> The Art And Science Of Motivation Graduation season is upon us and that means a slew of uplifting commencement speeches trying to motivate young adults to greatness. Science and experience tell us that everyone is motivated differently, so how do speakers, coaches and business managers inspire people? Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809739/the-art-and-science-of-motivation?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809739/the-art-and-science-of-motivation?ft=1&f=5 Graduation season is upon us and that means a slew of uplifting commencement speeches trying to motivate young adults to greatness. Science and experience tell us that everyone is motivated differently, so how do speakers, coaches and business managers inspire people? 1819 no Graduation season is upon us and that means a slew of uplifting commencement speeches trying to motivate young adults to greatness. Science and experience tell us that everyone is motivated differently, so how do speakers, coaches and business managers inspire people?

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]]> Apple, Tech Giants And An Industrial-Age Tax Code Apple CEO Timothy Cook made a rare appearance on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, testifying after congressional investigators revealed that Apple avoided billions in taxes. <em>The New York Times</em>' Charles Duhigg and guest host Jennifer Ludden talk about the tax code and the digital economy. Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809741/apple-tech-giants-and-an-industrial-age-tax-code?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/21/185809741/apple-tech-giants-and-an-industrial-age-tax-code?ft=1&f=5 Apple CEO Timothy Cook made a rare appearance on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, testifying after congressional investigators revealed that Apple avoided billions in taxes. <em>The New York Times</em>' Charles Duhigg and guest host Jennifer Ludden talk about the tax code and the digital economy. 1029 no Apple CEO Timothy Cook made a rare appearance on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, testifying after congressional investigators revealed that Apple avoided billions in taxes. The New York Times' Charles Duhigg and guest host Jennifer Ludden talk about the tax code and the digital economy.

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]]> The Future Of The Workers' Movement As membership in private-sector labor unions has continued to nosedive, traditional labor groups have been forced to reevaluate — just as non-union worker groups have emerged. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to writer Josh Eidelson about what he calls 'alt-labor.' Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559550/the-future-of-the-workers-movement?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559550/the-future-of-the-workers-movement?ft=1&f=5 As membership in private-sector labor unions has continued to nosedive, traditional labor groups have been forced to reevaluate — just as non-union worker groups have emerged. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to writer Josh Eidelson about what he calls 'alt-labor.' 1820 no As membership in private-sector labor unions has continued to nosedive, traditional labor groups have been forced to reevaluate — just as non-union worker groups have emerged. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to writer Josh Eidelson about what he calls 'alt-labor.'

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]]> Navigating Silicon Valley As A 'Woman Programmer' Prominent women such as Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg and Yahoo's Marissa Mayer are proving that women are finding their place at the table. But in an op-ed for <em>The New York Times</em>, former programmer Ellen Ullman argues that women in the field today face "a new, more virile and virulent sexism." Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559552/navigating-silicon-valley-as-a-woman-programmer?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559552/navigating-silicon-valley-as-a-woman-programmer?ft=1&f=5 Prominent women such as Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg and Yahoo's Marissa Mayer are proving that women are finding their place at the table. But in an op-ed for <em>The New York Times</em>, former programmer Ellen Ullman argues that women in the field today face "a new, more virile and virulent sexism." 1010 no Prominent women such as Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg and Yahoo's Marissa Mayer are proving that women are finding their place at the table. But in an op-ed for The New York Times, former programmer Ellen Ullman argues that women in the field today face "a new, more virile and virulent sexism."

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]]> Tiny Living: The Rise Of Small Spaces As the populations in big cities increase and more people choose to live alone, a new trend of living in very small spaces has emerged. But the tiny living movement is not without controversy as growth of these multi-unit buildings puts pressure on established neighborhoods. Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559554/tiny-living-the-rise-of-small-spaces?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/20/185559554/tiny-living-the-rise-of-small-spaces?ft=1&f=5 As the populations in big cities increase and more people choose to live alone, a new trend of living in very small spaces has emerged. But the tiny living movement is not without controversy as growth of these multi-unit buildings puts pressure on established neighborhoods. 1819 no As the populations in big cities increase and more people choose to live alone, a new trend of living in very small spaces has emerged. But the tiny living movement is not without controversy as growth of these multi-unit buildings puts pressure on established neighborhoods.

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]]> Life In Argentina's 'Little School' Prison Camp During Argentina's so-called Dirty War, thousands were abducted and taken to secret prisons like a place known as "the little school," where many were tortured and killed. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to a former prisoner, Alicia Partnoy, about her disappearance and her time there. Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=185559556&ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=185559556&ft=1&f=5 During Argentina's so-called Dirty War, thousands were abducted and taken to secret prisons like a place known as "the little school," where many were tortured and killed. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to a former prisoner, Alicia Partnoy, about her disappearance and her time there. 1015 no During Argentina's so-called Dirty War, thousands were abducted and taken to secret prisons like a place known as "the little school," where many were tortured and killed. Guest host Jennifer Ludden talks to a former prisoner, Alicia Partnoy, about her disappearance and her time there.

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]]> Insects May Be The Taste Of The Next Generation, Report Says A report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization says insects offer a huge potential for improving the world's food security. Peter Menzel, co-author of <em>Man Eating Bugs</em>, describes some insect-based cuisine and the western aversion to creepy-crawly snacks. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775920/insects-may-be-the-taste-of-the-next-generation-report-says?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775920/insects-may-be-the-taste-of-the-next-generation-report-says?ft=1&f=5 A report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization says insects offer a huge potential for improving the world's food security. Peter Menzel, co-author of <em>Man Eating Bugs</em>, describes some insect-based cuisine and the western aversion to creepy-crawly snacks. 1252 no A report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization says insects offer a huge potential for improving the world's food security. Peter Menzel, co-author of Man Eating Bugs, describes some insect-based cuisine and the western aversion to creepy-crawly snacks.

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]]> Desktop Diaries: Daniel Kahneman Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman is the latest subject in our <em>Desktop Diaries</em> series, although he has no desk. Kahneman, professor emeritus at Princeton University, won the Nobel Prize in economic sciences in 2002 for his research with the late Amos Tversky on our sometimes irrational intuitions and how they affect decision-making. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775922/desktop-diaries-daniel-kahneman?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775922/desktop-diaries-daniel-kahneman?ft=1&f=5 Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman is the latest subject in our <em>Desktop Diaries</em> series, although he has no desk. Kahneman, professor emeritus at Princeton University, won the Nobel Prize in economic sciences in 2002 for his research with the late Amos Tversky on our sometimes irrational intuitions and how they affect decision-making. 424 no Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman is the latest subject in our Desktop Diaries series, although he has no desk. Kahneman, professor emeritus at Princeton University, won the Nobel Prize in economic sciences in 2002 for his research with the late Amos Tversky on our sometimes irrational intuitions and how they affect decision-making.

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]]> Resetting the Theory of Time Generations of physicists have claimed that time is an illusion. But not all agree. In his book <em>Time Reborn: From the Crisis in Physics to the Future of the Universe</em>, theoretical physicist Lee Smolin argues that time exists--and he says time is key to understanding the evolution of the universe. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775924/resetting-the-theory-of-time?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775924/resetting-the-theory-of-time?ft=1&f=5 Generations of physicists have claimed that time is an illusion. But not all agree. In his book <em>Time Reborn: From the Crisis in Physics to the Future of the Universe</em>, theoretical physicist Lee Smolin argues that time exists--and he says time is key to understanding the evolution of the universe. 1262 no Generations of physicists have claimed that time is an illusion. But not all agree. In his book Time Reborn: From the Crisis in Physics to the Future of the Universe, theoretical physicist Lee Smolin argues that time exists--and he says time is key to understanding the evolution of the universe.

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]]> When Great Scientists Got It Wrong In <em>Brilliant Blunders: From Darwin to Einstein</em>, astrophysicist Mario Livio explores the colossal errors committed by scientific greats, from chemist Linus Pauling's botched model of DNA, to Charles Darwin's failure to understand genetics--the very mechanism of natural selection. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775928/when-great-scientists-got-it-wrong?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775928/when-great-scientists-got-it-wrong?ft=1&f=5 In <em>Brilliant Blunders: From Darwin to Einstein</em>, astrophysicist Mario Livio explores the colossal errors committed by scientific greats, from chemist Linus Pauling's botched model of DNA, to Charles Darwin's failure to understand genetics--the very mechanism of natural selection. 1626 no In Brilliant Blunders: From Darwin to Einstein, astrophysicist Mario Livio explores the colossal errors committed by scientific greats, from chemist Linus Pauling's botched model of DNA, to Charles Darwin's failure to understand genetics--the very mechanism of natural selection.

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]]> Researchers Report Cloning Advance For Producing Stem Cells Scientists reported this week in the journal <em>Cell</em> that they had used somatic cell nuclear transfer techniques to create a source of embryonic stem cells from the skin cells of a patient. George Daley, director of the stem cell transplantation program at Boston Children's Hospital, and Josephine Johnston of the Hastings Center discuss the research. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775918/researchers-report-cloning-advance-for-producing-stem-cells?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/17/184775918/researchers-report-cloning-advance-for-producing-stem-cells?ft=1&f=5 Scientists reported this week in the journal <em>Cell</em> that they had used somatic cell nuclear transfer techniques to create a source of embryonic stem cells from the skin cells of a patient. George Daley, director of the stem cell transplantation program at Boston Children's Hospital, and Josephine Johnston of the Hastings Center discuss the research. 1211 no Scientists reported this week in the journal Cell that they had used somatic cell nuclear transfer techniques to create a source of embryonic stem cells from the skin cells of a patient. George Daley, director of the stem cell transplantation program at Boston Children's Hospital, and Josephine Johnston of the Hastings Center discuss the research.

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]]> Managing The $30 Million 'One Fund' To Aid Boston Victims Days after the marathon bombing, officials established the One Fund for Boston to assist victims and their families. Attorney Ken Feinberg, who managed similar funds after Sept. 11 and Virginia Tech and is managing this fund, says there's no easy way to decide who gets how much of the $30 million that's been donated. Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=184524656&ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=184524656&ft=1&f=5 Days after the marathon bombing, officials established the One Fund for Boston to assist victims and their families. Attorney Ken Feinberg, who managed similar funds after Sept. 11 and Virginia Tech and is managing this fund, says there's no easy way to decide who gets how much of the $30 million that's been donated. 1819 no Days after the marathon bombing, officials established the One Fund for Boston to assist victims and their families. Attorney Ken Feinberg, who managed similar funds after Sept. 11 and Virginia Tech and is managing this fund, says there's no easy way to decide who gets how much of the $30 million that's been donated.

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]]> Ex-Ambassador To Iraq Weighs In On Talking To 'Monsters' As the death toll in Syria climbs and critics blast the Obama administration for not taking more decisive action, former ambassador Christopher Hill points instead to a failure of diplomacy in an op-ed in the <em>New York Times</em>. Hill talks about what the U.S. faces in facilitating talks between the regime and Syrian rebels. Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524658/ex-ambassador-to-iraq-weighs-in-on-talking-to-monsters?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524658/ex-ambassador-to-iraq-weighs-in-on-talking-to-monsters?ft=1&f=5 As the death toll in Syria climbs and critics blast the Obama administration for not taking more decisive action, former ambassador Christopher Hill points instead to a failure of diplomacy in an op-ed in the <em>New York Times</em>. Hill talks about what the U.S. faces in facilitating talks between the regime and Syrian rebels. 1016 no As the death toll in Syria climbs and critics blast the Obama administration for not taking more decisive action, former ambassador Christopher Hill points instead to a failure of diplomacy in an op-ed in the New York Times. Hill talks about what the U.S. faces in facilitating talks between the regime and Syrian rebels.

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]]> Looking Ahead With The Wonders Of Krulwich In the latest installment of our "Looking Ahead" series, NPR science correspondent and Radiolab co-host Robert Krulwich talks about reporting on big ideas in imaginative ways, the old days at NPR and what he's wondering about today. Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524660/looking-ahead-with-the-wonders-of-krulwich?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524660/looking-ahead-with-the-wonders-of-krulwich?ft=1&f=5 In the latest installment of our "Looking Ahead" series, NPR science correspondent and Radiolab co-host Robert Krulwich talks about reporting on big ideas in imaginative ways, the old days at NPR and what he's wondering about today. 1820 no In the latest installment of our "Looking Ahead" series, NPR science correspondent and Radiolab co-host Robert Krulwich talks about reporting on big ideas in imaginative ways, the old days at NPR and what he's wondering about today.

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]]> Will Strong Summer Travel Be A Turning Point For Airlines? As the summer travel season approaches, air travel provides a barometer for the health of the U.S. economy — and airlines report they're having a good year. After years of financial troubles, industry representatives hope U.S. travelers are more willing to fly. NPR senior business editor Marilyn Geewax explains what summer travel tells us about the health of the economy. Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 -0400 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524662/will-strong-summer-travel-be-a-turning-point-for-airlines?ft=1&f=5 http://www.npr.org/2013/05/16/184524662/will-strong-summer-travel-be-a-turning-point-for-airlines?ft=1&f=5 As the summer travel season approaches, air travel provides a barometer for the health of the U.S. economy — and airlines report they're having a good year. After years of financial troubles, industry representatives hope U.S. travelers are more willing to fly. NPR senior business editor Marilyn Geewax explains what summer travel tells us about the health of the economy. 1016 no As the summer travel season approaches, air travel provides a barometer for the health of the U.S. economy — and airlines report they're having a good year. After years of financial troubles, industry representatives hope U.S. travelers are more willing to fly. NPR senior business editor Marilyn Geewax explains what summer travel tells us about the health of the economy.

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