Stochasticity

Radio Lab is one of my favorite radio shows/podcasts, and the recent episode "Stochasticity" is one of the better shows they've done in a while. They do a very good job of both capturing a sense of wonder and awe, while at the same time keeping you grounded in the real facts and real science. The story of the two British girls is pretty striking, and the treatment of "streaks" in athletic performance is quite solid, as well. It is not necessarily recommended if you cherish your mystical predispositions. But I believe in always looking at the world with our eyes fully open, and not with our prejudices. (As much as is humanly possible.)

Lastly, I am the only person that I know of who used the term "stochastic" in my "25 Random Things" note on Facebook, so it seems obligatory that I link to this episode...