In this episode of the What? Why? When? podcast, Dr Matt Williams is joined by Jesus College Oxford students Becky (Medicine) and Joel (PPE) for a deep dive into medical ethics.

Starting with a real Oxford interview question — who should receive a life-saving kidney transplant — the conversation explores pressing ethical frameworks: consequentialism, deontology, virtue ethics, and more.

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In this episode, Dr Matt Williams is joined by Oxford medical student Becky and access officer Leah for a discussion on stress – from the neuroscience behind it to modern causes, like exams or even hearing Wham! at Christmas.

We explore:

- What happens in your brain and body during stress

- The role of cortisol, adrenaline, and the autonomic nervous system

- How stress evolved (even bacteria experience it!)

- Coping strategies backed by science

- Oxford student perspectives on managing stress at university

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In this episode, Dr Matt Williams speaks with Jubeda (3rd year historian) and Yannick (1st year Physicist) to discuss none other than the meaning of life!

Tune in to hear the discussions on;

-The meaning OF life vs the meaning IN life

-The role of sentience in meaning

-The role of religion and community in finding purpose

-What makes US? How do we define what we are?

-Can life be created synthetically?

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Why does Superman wear his underwear over his tights? Why the cape, the bright colours, and the chest logo? In this episode Dr Matt Williams is joined by Oxford history undergraduates Andy and Danny to unravel the surprising historical, cultural, and psychological origins behind Superman’s iconic costume.

As well as discussing circus strongmen, Nietzsche's Übermensch, and American patriotism in comic book subcultures, this episode explores;

- The visual psychology behind Superman’s look

- How masculinity and power are coded in superhero design

- Why Clark Kent’s hair parting matters

- The shift from traditional superheroes to anti-heroes

- Superman vs Batman, postmodernism, and politics

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Why do some people thirst for power, even when it brings stress, scrutiny, and responsibility?

Dr Matt Williams is joined by History student Charlie and Digital Access Officer Imaan to explore the psychology, politics, and cultural roots of power.

From superhero myths to prime ministers, we explore;

What is power — and who decides who gets it?

Why are we drawn to powerful figures?

Does a desire for power stem from fear or ambition?

Why have some countries seem more powerful than others?

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Dr. Matt Williams, Imaan (Digital Access Officer and English graduate) and Uzumma (first-year Law student) tackle one of the biggest, most complex questions of all time: What is Intelligence?

From Einstein to Mozart, IQ tests to emotional intelligence, and from brain biology to social myths—we explore what makes someone "intelligent," how intelligence is measured (or mismeasured), and whether it’s something you're born with or something you build.

We also discuss;

The flaws of IQ tests 🧾

Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences 🔢🎨🗣️

Emotional vs. logical intelligence ❤️🧠

Nature vs. nurture in intelligence development 🧬🌱

Real-life study habits & self-belief tips 📚

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Dr Matt Williams sits down with Geography student Hannah and Access Officer and Geography graduate Leah to tackle one of the most urgent questions of our time: Why is there so little action on climate change, especially from our political leaders?

We explore climate denial, political inertia, economic trade-offs, and the social psychology behind inaction—even when the science is clear.

We also explore key ideas like the prisoner's dilemma, the free rider problem, and fairness across generations.

What does it really take to shift mindsets and policy?

And can Gen Z become the most climate-heroic generation yet?

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In this episode, Dr. Matt Williams is joined by Oxford students, Emily (Economics and Management) and Joel (Philosophy, Politics, Economics), to explore the big question: 'Does democracy cause economic growth'?

This episode, we dive into the core of the thought-provoking question, the factors that drive economic growth, and whether there’s a causal link between the two.

Along the way, we discuss the complexities of measuring democracy, the role of voting, and the importance of power transfer in a democracy

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