Short showWhy We Do That

This show dissects obvious social norms like handshakes and queuing to reveal the hidden logic behind human behavior. Explore how different cultures solve social problems and discover the surprising purpose of etiquette in maintaining trust and harmony. Gain a fresh perspective on society and navigate social situations with greater ease.

See more shows

Latest drops:

Why we laugh when it’s not funny

Why we laugh when it’s not funny

Laughter is more of a social tool than a reaction.

3:24
Why we talk over each other

Why we talk over each other

The unspoken rules of conversational turn-taking.

3:34
Why we can't always say 'I was wrong'

Why we can't always say 'I was wrong'

Admitting error isn't just about honesty.

3:15
Why we don't always say what we mean

Why we don't always say what we mean

Sometimes 'yes' means 'no,' and 'maybe' is a polite refusal.

3:17
Why we hum

Why we hum

The unwritten rules of a wordless sound.

3:01
Why we fill conversational silence

Why we fill conversational silence

Some cultures value the pause in our conversations.

3:22
Why We Don't Talk to Ourselves in Public

Why We Don't Talk to Ourselves in Public

The cognitive power of a misunderstood social taboo.

3:03
Why we can't agree on how to leave a party

Why we can't agree on how to leave a party

Your awkward exit might just be a cultural ritual.

3:13
Why we spit

Why we spit

An act of blessing, contempt, or hygiene?

3:17
Why we touch each other differently

Why we touch each other differently

How a casual gesture reveals unspoken cultural rules.

3:02