71. Tempting Fate
Does taking unnecessary risks inevitably lead to some kind of cosmic payback? Matthew Syed explores why we鈥檙e so wary of tempting fate.
Tempting fate is often seen as a fine line between courage and foolishness. It鈥檚 rooted in the belief that pushing certain boundaries or showing too much confidence might invite some kind of cosmic retribution.
Even those who don鈥檛 believe in fate hesitate to take chances, driven by an instinctual fear of what might go wrong. Matthew Syed explores why we鈥檙e both drawn to and wary of tempting fate, and why our minds often trick us into a bit of magical thinking.
By unpacking the dynamics of hubris, overconfidence, and the possibility of universal retribution, we explore whether challenging fate is a self-defining act - or a dangerous game.
With pilot Amelia Rose Earhart, professor of Behavioural Science Jane Risen and philosopher Simon Critchley.
Presenter: Matthew Syed
Producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Series Editors: Georgia Moodie
Sound Design and Mix: Daniel Kempson
Theme music by Ioana Selaru
A Novel production for 大象传媒 Radio 4
On radio
Broadcasts
- Next Wednesday 09:00大象传媒 Radio 4
- Fri 14 Feb 2025 16:30大象传媒 Radio 4
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Podcast
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Sideways
Matthew Syed explores the ideas that shape our lives, making us see the world differently.
