The Pulse Episode Archive

We explore the world of color — from how we perceive it, to efforts to describe and differentiate its many shades.

Marion Nestle and Lisa Sutherland discuss their new book, “Sugar Coated: Unboxing the Hidden Forces Shaping America’s Favorite Breakfast Food.”

We explore what’s on your plate, find out why it matters — and try to make sense of conflicting nutrition advice.

How weather affects our well-being and health — from our moods to chronic conditions like asthma and pain.

Journalist Katinka Blackford Newman discusses the similarities between the Clancy trial and her own experience with psychosis.

A look back at our search for life on Mars — from the pre-telescope days to explorations of the Martian surface.

Jon Ronson on his new book The Castle,” fake reality shows, and a generation of men adrift.

Why we seek out the wilderness — and what “wilderness” really means in a world defined by human intervention.

We explore the inner lives of animals, from empathy in baboons to pain in lobsters and odd-couple friendships.

Erica Gerard tried to find the right antidepressant for over two decades, one where the positive impact on her mood outweighed the debili ...

On this episode, psychologist Cassandra Vieten shares how imagination affects our health and our relationships with others.

A look at how constraints can fuel the creative process — and how too much freedom can do the opposite.

Exploring new research on the causes of — and potential solutions to — different kinds of pain.

An exploration of vacation health hazards, and how to keep them from wrecking your fun.

How science is used in criminal investigations — and what happens when it’s not as reliable as we might think.