ritual |

The Pleasure of Repetition June 4, 2009

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Emotions & Inner Life, Personal Growth & Change

Repetition is the hidden engine behind nearly everything we enjoy, from exercise and music to sex and daily ritual. Armand DiMele argues that recreation is literally re-creation of the self, and that understanding your own repetitions is key to recognizing what you truly need. Callers explore compulsive eating, adoption anxiety, and a father’s struggle with his daughter growing up.

The Compulsion to Organize April 2, 2009

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Sherri Siegel

Category: Anxiety & Fear, The Mind & Neuroscience

Why do scattered people suddenly need to line up the ducks? Armand DiMele and guest Dr. Sherry Siegel, M.D. trace the spectrum from everyday tidying impulses to obsessive-compulsive disorder, examining the biology of doubt, the genetics of compulsive behavior, and why nightmares may all be, at root, about organizing chaos.

New Year’s Traditions Around the World January 2, 2008

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Personal Growth & Change, Society, Culture & Current Events

Fireworks to chase evil spirits, 108 gong strikes, color-coded underwear for luck: Armand DiMele traces the surprising origins of New Year’s customs from Japan to Spain to Germany, then turns to why resolutions fail and how small, specific changes outperform grand acts of willpower.

New Year Traditions Around the World December 28, 2006

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Meaning, Spirituality & Philosophy, Society, Culture & Current Events

Why do we party hard, eat grapes, burn dolls, and bang pots at midnight? Armand traces New Year customs from ancient Babylon and Rome through modern celebrations in Korea, Colombia, Taiwan, and beyond, weaving in listener calls about Puerto Rican, Black American, and other personal traditions.

The Power of Superstition December 8, 2005

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Meaning, Spirituality & Philosophy, Society, Culture & Current Events

Why do so many people skip the 13th floor? Armand DiMele traces the hidden origins of common superstitions, from the Last Supper to Roman gazing pools, and argues that superstitions often serve those in power by shaping behavior. Callers share family traditions spanning the West Indies, Ireland, and Santeria.

Why We Feast Together November 23, 2005

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Roberta Maria Atin

Category: Emotions & Inner Life, Society, Culture & Current Events

Food is social technology, and the holiday feast is one of humanity’s oldest rituals. Armand and co-host Roberta Maria Atti trace the evolutionary and cultural logic of feasting, from the politics of salt to the symbolism of abundance, and close with practical comfort for people facing the holidays alone.