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 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
Why we tip

Why we tip

When a kind gesture is seen as an insult.

3:02
Why what we call people matters

Why what we call people matters

How we signal respect and intimacy with a single word.

3:33
Why we treat our pets like children

Why we treat our pets like children

A modern solution for an ancient need for connection.

2:54
Why we bathe alone

Why we bathe alone

How the daily shower became a private, modern ritual.

2:41
Why we laugh when it’s not funny

Why we laugh when it’s not funny

Laughter is more of a social tool than a reaction.

3:24
Why we talk over each other

Why we talk over each other

The unspoken rules of conversational turn-taking.

3:34
Why we can't always say 'I was wrong'

Why we can't always say 'I was wrong'

Admitting error isn't just about honesty.

3:15