Science Diction
Science Diction is a podcast about words and the science stories behind them.
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Each episode of Science Diction takes a word or phrase, and with the help of historians, authors, etymologists, and scientists, serves up language with a side of science.
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Orphans Delivered The World’s First Vaccine
The world’s first vaccination campaign involved a ship, some pus-filled sores, and 22 orphan boys.
Diction Dash: You Asked, We Answer
Let’s play a game: Guess the meaning or backstory of a word.
10:20
The False Personality Binary
Our understanding of psychology has evolved in the century since Carl Jung coined the term “introvert.”
Introvert: The Invention Of A Type
It all started with a falling out between two famous psychologists.
Mercury: How It Made Cats Dance
Mercury has captivated humanity for ages. But what happens when it invades a town?
Alcohol: History’s Favorite Mind-Bending Substance
And the time the U.S. government went to unthinkable lengths to pry it away.
Robot: Making A Mechanical Mind
A mind we create isn’t necessarily a mind we can control.
Why The Word “Lunacy” Comes From The Moon
How an ancient belief in the mind-altering power of the moon gave us a word.
5:51
Meet The Man Behind The Word ‘Mesmerize’
Season three of Science Diction begins with the story of a doctor, his peculiar methods, and the power of the mind.
The 18th Century Health Craze Behind The Word “Mesmerize”
It all started when a doctor with some peculiar methods showed up in Paris.