Humans

Racial and ethnic disparities persist in sudden unexplained infant deaths.

Racial And Ethnic Disparities Persist In Sudden Infant Deaths

10:52am May 15, 2017

by Katherine Hobson

Babies in Native American and Alaska Native families are at higher risk of sudden unexplained infant death, despite years of effort to reduce the toll. African-American families also face higher risk.

Turns out that humans aren't the only animals that contagiously yawn.

Yawning May Promote Social Bonding Even Between Dogs And Humans

8:29am May 15, 2017

Bears do it, bats do it. So do dogs and humans. They all yawn. It's a common behavior, but why is a bit of a mystery. Researchers think yawning may perk up the brain and help with social bonding.

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A mother recognizes one of her traits in her daughter.

A Mother Finds Joy In Helping A Child Navigate Their Shared Traits

5:00am May 14, 2017

by Michelle Nijhuis

An unexpectedly rich reward of motherhood is the chance to show your child how to deal with traits passed down from you. A third-generation perfectionist and her daughter compare notes on Mr. P.

The Power Of Genes, And The Line Between Biology And Destiny

2:26pm May 12, 2017

Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee says genetics play a significant role in identity, temperament, sexual orientation and disease risk — but that environment also matters. Originally broadcast May 15, 2016.

Elizabeth Lesser speaks at TEDWomen 2016 in San Francisco, California.

Health & Safety

Elizabeth Lesser: Why Is It So Hard To Ask For — And Offer — Forgiveness?

8:58am May 12, 2017

by NPR/TED Staff

Before donating bone marrow to her sister — Elizabeth Lesser and her sister undertook a process of seeking forgiveness from each other. She says forgiveness is hard but necessary for our well-being.

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Sue Klebold: When Your Son Does The Unthinkable, Can You Forgive Him And Yourself?

8:58am May 12, 2017

by NPR/TED Staff

Sue Klebold's son Dylan was one of the two shooters at Columbine High School. Nearly 20 years later, she talks about her struggle to understand his actions, and to find forgiveness.

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Thordis Elva and Tom Stranger speak at TEDWomen 2016 in San Francisco, California.

Thordis Elva And Tom Stranger: How Do You Move Forward After Sexual Violence?

8:58am May 12, 2017

by NPR/TED Staff

Tom Stranger raped Thordis Elva when they were dating in high school. Years later, they started a painful and painstaking dialogue about accountability and reconciliation.

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Music & Culture

The Longest Note Record Gets Broken, Or Maybe Not

5:00am May 11, 2017

There was some confusion over who has been able to hold the longest note on a wind instrument using the technique called circular breathing.

Creators of Magic: The Gathering say 20 million people worldwide play the card-trading game.

Why Do Children Love Those Fad Toys So?

4:58pm May 10, 2017

by Emily Sohn

Today it's fidget spinners, but soon it will be another little gizmo that children dearly, desperately want. The complicated social dynamics of childhood are one big reason.

Firearms using lead ammunition spray lead dust out of the muzzle and ejection port when fired.

Lead Dust From Firearms Can Pose A Silent Health Risk

2:51pm May 10, 2017

by Angus Chen

The Department of Defense has increased protections for military personnel from exposure to lead from firearms. It can be a health problem for people using recreational shooting ranges, too.