The extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions
Why do we read horoscopes? On this week’s Why Factor, Mike Williams gets a reading from celebrity as
Why are some people racist and judge others by the colour of their skin? Is it some deep seated fear
The programme examines boredom and discovers the history of how it developed as an idea and conseque
Why do we envy other people? Mike Williams meets a woman who is experiencing severe ‘baby envy’ beca
Dance exists in every culture. It’s thought that humans were dancing before we learned to speak. But
Last names tell a story. Your last name could determine your career. It could decide how easily yo
What’s in a name? Each of us has one and it is a fairly fundamental part of us. But what does the na
Although we assume a natural right to privacy, we readily give it away on our mobile phones and on s
Why is drinking coffee so compulsive, and controversial? Mike Williams explores the spread of coffee
Wood is a vital human resource. But trees inspire myths and reverence. So, Mike Williams asks, why
In the West, teenagers are commonly perceived as being volatile, moody and often seen as being “trou
Why do we touch each other? And how do different cultures view physical contact in everyday life? Mi
Ahead of the Sochi Winter Olympics next month and the controversy surrounding Russia’s anti-gay laws
From sub Saharan Africa to the west coast tribes of Canada to the Mardi Gras of Rio, New Orleans and
Alcohol has been part of human civilisation for thousands of years. Evidence from pottery residues s
Running is experiencing an explosion in popularity in the UK and across the world. So why are we run
Why has one of the world’s most important scientists been forgotten? Fritz Haber was the brilliant G
Mike Williams finds out how the way we lend and borrow money is changing. He travels to Blackpool to
Why do men cross dress? Mike Williams interviews Helen, a London Underground train driver, Peter a d
Crying emotional tears is uniquely human. We cry over almost anything and for almost any reason – fr
