We hear a round-up of some of the latest research into happiness, from economist Richard Layard, and psychologists Robert Biswas-Diener and Sonja Lyubomirsky.
Intelligent. Optimistic. Curious.
Audio
Travel writer William Dalrymple has lived in India since 1989, witnessing the economic boom and the cultural changes that followed.
Neuroscientists say that about a quarter of our mental energy is dedicated to maintaining our narrative identities. Julian Keenan says there's got to be an evolutionary benefit for all that "self".
Journalist Samuel Freedman says that American Jews are free to assimilate to whatever extent they choose, but this very freedom has caused new tensions and divisions within the Tribe.
Philosopher Rebecca Goldstein says philosophy is still evolving, and continues to shape our values. She talks about her long fascination with the granddaddy of all philosophers, Plato.
Journalist Steve Volk believes the paranormal can be studied scientifically and explains why it's also a great subject for journalists. Also, a montage of movie clips about the paranormal.
Composer Stephen Paulus sits at the piano keyboard and talks with Jim Fleming about how he developed the music for a group of six poems he set for the Festival Choir of Madison.
Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Susan Faludi writes about the effects of 9/11 on society, and especially on women.
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