The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe
The most important podcast available today, in my opinion, is The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe. Each episode digs deep into news stories from around the world and exposes the junk science and its practitioners. Dr. Steven Novella (blog) is a neurologist, and he and his panel of “skeptical rogues” are knowledgeable and funny. Even better, they know how to think properly, so no claim goes unscrutinized — even those they once held dear.
Most episodes also contain a thoughtful interview with someone who really knows what they’re talking about. Some of the interviews are people with whom the panel disagrees, and intelligent debate ensues, without shouting or other daytime-television garbage breaking out.
Add to all that the fact that each show ends with a clever puzzle (answers revealed on the next episode), a quote, and a fun and challenging “Science or Fiction” game during which Dr. Novella challenges the panel (and the listeners) to reason out which of one the three “news” stories is fictitious. Not only is the show entertaining and enlightening, it’s consistently out on time every week.
If none of that is enough, there’s also a cute and smart(ass) girl (Rebecca Watson) on the show whose no-hold-barred innuendo and sharp comments will have you laughing loudly during your commute. Rebecca Watson’s other hobbies include blogging and selling calendars with photos of tastefully nude skeptics. There’s one available for each sex.
