Inside the Minds of Thrill Seekers

Do animals feel love, anger, or empathy? Researchers have long dismissed such ideas as anthropomorphism, arguing that attributing human emotions to animals was unscientific.But as we learn more about animal sentience, that’s starting to change — and, in the process, we’re learnin ...  Afficher plus

Erica Gerard tried to find the right antidepressant for over two decades, one where the benefits outweighed the side effects. Finally, she decided to get off her medication. What followed was a harrowing journey she was not prepared for. On this episode, what people should consid ...  Afficher plus

Here on Unexpected Elements, we've been glued to the drama of the Paralympic games in Paris. But it's not just the thrill of the competition that's got us hooked, we've also become obsessed with some of the high-octane training regimes undertaken by the athletes.Take American 'Ar ...  Afficher plus

Some people are thrill seekers. They live for the excitement and the rush of adrenaline. In Nidal Morra’s case, he’s always looking for the next big thrill but what happens when his adrenaline peeks and even the most dangerous stunts no longer excite him? Happy Listening Burgers! ...  Afficher plus

For most of us, the idea of jumping off a bridge with a parachute or surfing a wave 70 feet tall seems to defy comprehension. Psychologists, too, have wondered what drives people to participate in extreme sports. Eric Brymer, PhD, talks about why many of our preconceived notions ...  Afficher plus

Daredevils. They are on a quest to go higher, faster, and bigger than anyone else. Some think they are foolish for tempting death. But for those in this story, testing their mortal limits has given them reason to live.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.