Friday the 13th: Superstition or Silly Fun?
Episode Overview
Origins of Friday the 13th and its superstitions. Historical and cultural significance of the number 13. Impact of superstitions on modern behaviour. Comparison between old superstitions and modern anxieties. How pop culture has shaped our view of Friday the 13th.
We're all descendants of superstitious people.
Ever wondered why Friday the 13th gives some people the heebie-jeebies while others just laugh it off? Michael Todd Fink takes you on a fascinating journey through the origins and impacts of superstitions in this episode of 'Kind Mind'. He kicks off with an amusing tale about Old Joe, a superstitious farmer whose day goes from bad to worse, thanks to a black cat and some spilled salt.
This sets the stage for a deeper exploration into why certain beliefs stick around, even in our modern, rational world. Fink digs into the historical and cultural roots of Friday the 13th, from its associations with Venus and feminine power to its darker connections with Judas and Norse mythology. He also touches on how these beliefs have morphed over time, becoming part of pop culture and even influencing our behaviour in subtle ways—like skipping the 13th floor in buildings.
With a blend of humour and wisdom, Fink makes you question how much of your own life is shaped by these age-old superstitions. Is it all just in your head, or is there something more to it? Tune in to find out and maybe rethink the next time you avoid walking under a ladder.