Short showWhy We Do That

This show dissects obvious social norms like handshakes and queuing to reveal the hidden logic behind human behavior. Explore how different cultures solve social problems and discover the surprising purpose of etiquette in maintaining trust and harmony. Gain a fresh perspective on society and navigate social situations with greater ease.

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Latest drops:

Why we smash our hands together

Why we smash our hands together

The hidden biology of crowd consensus

4:00
Why we think slurping is rude

Why we think slurping is rude

The hidden cultural meaning behind table manners

3:54
Why we open presents in front of the giver

Why we open presents in front of the giver

The cultural pressure behind our reactions.

3:16
Why we're more honest with more money

Why we're more honest with more money

What a lost wallet reveals about our self-image.

3:30
Why we crave rites of passage

Why we crave rites of passage

From bullet ants to birthdays, the need to mark adulthood.

3:17
Is your birthday really about you?

Is your birthday really about you?

How this annual ritual reveals our cultural values.

3:21
Why we still knock on doors

Why we still knock on doors

The ancient social contract in a simple tap.

3:04
Why we have unspoken rules for sharing

Why we have unspoken rules for sharing

The hidden social test when a neighbor borrows from you.

3:00
Why our forks reveal who we are

Why our forks reveal who we are

The hidden history behind American and European table manners.

3:08
Why we disagree on public affection

Why we disagree on public affection

How holding hands reveals different ideas of privacy.

3:45