Chileans weigh a new constitution
NPR's Scott Simon talks with Chilean journalist Francisca Skoknic about the upcoming vote to approve or reject a new constitution for the South American country.
Electric Eels Jolt Their Prey By Remote Control
The electric eel creates its own electricity, sure, but Vanderbilt University professor Ken Catania tells NPR's Scott Simon what's shocking is how the eel uses it to remotely control prey.
Scents Of The Season Speak Directly To Our Emotions
Peppermint, evergreen, latkes on the griddle — all are signature smells of Christmas. NPR's Scott Simon talks with Mandy Aftel, author of Fragrant, about why we react so strongly to scents.
Levin, Harkin, Coburn Among Senators Bidding Adieu
The end of the 113th Congress means a lot of goodbyes for retiring members and for those who lost in November. That means, at least for a moment, partisanship took some time off on the Senate floor.
Holder Won't Force NYT Journalist To Reveal Source
The Justice Department has decided not to make journalist James Risen reveal a source. Correspondent David Folkenflik tells NPR's Scott Simon about a case that became a flashpoint for press freedom.
Outrage On The Left And Right As Senate Delays Spending Vote
The Senate is poised to pass the trillion-dollar spending bill that narrowly cleared the House this week, but anger about the measure from both parties has delayed the proceedings.
Government Funding Bill Rolls Back Trucker Rest Requirements
One of the many policy riders tucked inside the trillion-dollar spending bill reverses a rule that long-haul truckers take two nights off for every 70 hours they drive. Safety groups are angry.
London Men Decks Their Beards With Beads And Baubles
The hottest Christmas trend — at least according to a London ad agency — is Beard Baubles: tiny ornaments to hang on facial hair. NPR's Scott Simon ponders the ramifications of this fashion statement.
Hong Kong Protesters Leave The Streets, Not Their Cause
Hong Kong's final pro-democracy protest camp was removed by the police this week. NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Frank Langfitt about the future of the movement and relations with mainland China.
Geminids Promise A Light Show In The Night Sky
The best and most easily-watched meteor shower of the year is happening this weekend. NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Jackie Faherty, an astronomer at the Carnegie Institution for Science.