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Maggie Penman

Stories

  • caption: In 1989, <em>The Gloucester Daily Times </em>reviewed 'The Widow's Blind Date,' written by Israel Horovitz (center). It's a play that depicts a woman confronting her rapists. Jocelyn Meinhardt (right), who worked on the play at the time, says she was sexually assaulted by Horovitz.

    The Psychological Forces Behind A Cultural Reckoning: Understanding #MeToo

    Nearly a quarter century ago, a group of women accused a prominent playwright of sexual misconduct. For the most part, the allegations went nowhere. In 2017, in the midst of the #MeToo movement, more women came forward to accuse the same playwright of misconduct. This time, everyone listened. On this episode — originally broadcast in February 2018 — we explore the story through the lens of social science research and ask, "Why Now?" What has changed in our minds and in our culture so that allegations of sexual harassment and assault are being taken more seriously than they were in the past? A note: This story includes descriptions of sexual harassment and assault. It may not be suitable for all listeners.
  • caption: Even Thomas Edison got it wrong sometimes. In 1890, he marketed this creepy talking doll that was taken off the shelves after just a few weeks. Listen to its <a href="https://www.nps.gov/edis/learn/photosmultimedia/twinkle-twinkle-little-star-edison-talking-doll-cylinder-metal-prototype-design-tenhp-collection.htm">horrifying rendition of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star."</a>
    Science

    You 2.0: Originals

    What does it mean to be an original? As part of our summer series, You 2.0, we talk with psychology professor Adam Grant about innovators and the challenges they face. Adam gives his take on what makes an original, how parents can nurture originality in their children, and the potential downsides of non-conformity.
  • man flying on a paper airplane
    Science

    You 2.0: Dream Jobs

    Finding a new job may be the solution to your woes at work. But there may also be other ways to get more out of your daily grind. This week, we talk with psychologist Amy Wrzesniewski of Yale University about how we can find meaning and purpose in our jobs.