In this episode, Dr Matt Williams is joined by Oxford medical student Becky and access officer Leah for a discussion on stress – from the neuroscience behind it to modern causes, like exams or even hearing Wham! at Christmas. We explore:- What happens in your brain and body during stress- The role of cortisol, adrenaline, and the autonomic nervous system- How stress evolved (even bacteria experience it!)- Coping strategies backed by science- Oxford student perspectives on managing stress at university Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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28:09
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28:09
Meaning of Life
In this episode, Dr Matt Williams speaks with Jubeda (3rd year historian) and Yannick (1st year Physicist) to discuss none other than the meaning of life!Tune in to hear the discussions on;-The meaning OF life vs the meaning IN life-The role of sentience in meaning-The role of religion and community in finding purpose-What makes US? How do we define what we are?-Can life be created synthetically? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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31:45
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31:45
Explaining Superman's Outfit
Why does Superman wear his underwear over his tights? Why the cape, the bright colours, and the chest logo? In this episode Dr Matt Williams is joined by Oxford history undergraduates Andy and Danny to unravel the surprising historical, cultural, and psychological origins behind Superman’s iconic costume.As well as discussing circus strongmen, Nietzsche's Übermensch, and American patriotism in comic book subcultures, this episode explores;- The visual psychology behind Superman’s look- How masculinity and power are coded in superhero design- Why Clark Kent’s hair parting matters- The shift from traditional superheroes to anti-heroes- Superman vs Batman, postmodernism, and politics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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28:10
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28:10
Thirst for Power
Why do some people thirst for power, even when it brings stress, scrutiny, and responsibility? Dr Matt Williams is joined by History student Charlie and Digital Access Officer Imaan to explore the psychology, politics, and cultural roots of power.From superhero myths to prime ministers, we explore;What is power — and who decides who gets it?Why are we drawn to powerful figures?Does a desire for power stem from fear or ambition?Why have some countries seem more powerful than others? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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32:06
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32:06
What is Intelligence?
Dr. Matt Williams, Imaan (Digital Access Officer and English graduate) and Uzumma (first-year Law student) tackle one of the biggest, most complex questions of all time: What is Intelligence?From Einstein to Mozart, IQ tests to emotional intelligence, and from brain biology to social myths—we explore what makes someone "intelligent," how intelligence is measured (or mismeasured), and whether it’s something you're born with or something you build. We also discuss;The flaws of IQ tests 🧾Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences 🔢🎨🗣️Emotional vs. logical intelligence ❤️🧠Nature vs. nurture in intelligence development 🧬🌱Real-life study habits & self-belief tips 📚 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The 'What, Why, When' Podcast is produced by the Access Team of Jesus College at the University of Oxford and hosted by Dr Matt Williams, who is the Access Fellow at Jesus College and Tutor in Politics at Oxford.The aim of this podcast is to recreate Oxford tutorials - the primary teaching method at Oxford consisting of small group conversations around difficult problems. Whether you like thinking about complicated topics, are considering applying to highly competitive universities like Oxford or you want to know about the skills that highly competitive universities look for, this podcast is for you!This podcast was produced in the SOUTHWORKS Digital Media Lab at Jesus College Oxford, with thanks to, and in partnership with, SOUTHWORKS. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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