Marshall McLuhan discusses a wide range of topics including conformity, changes in entertainment media, cultural change, art and artists, originality in dance, reading and language, human interaction with nature, and technology. Recorded in front of a live audience at Kendall College, McLuhan takes several questions from the audience throughout the program.

Lawrence Weschler discusses his book “Mr. Wilson’s Cabinet of Wonder” and the Museum of Jurassic Technology. Weschler discusses the director of this museum, David Hildebrand Wilson, and the surreal and often humorous exhibits on display in the museum. Studs plays "Suite Anglaise No. 2 in A Minor: II. Bourrée 1 et 2" - Jean-Frédéric Neuburger.

Philosopher and nonviolent activist Lanza Del Vasto discusses his work as a nonviolent activist and his book "Return to the Source." Terkel refers to del Vasto as "Shantidas" occasionally during the interview.

John Cage discusses his music, life, influences, and career. Rebroadcast of an interview with John Cage to celebrate his life and what would have been soon his 80th birthday. Includes a clip of John Cage reading/ telling a story in 1969 to Studs Terkel.

John Bremer discusses theories of educational innovation. Specifically his innovation of "The School Without Walls: Philadelphia's Parkway Program". Discusses life as education, and the societal element in open plan education.

Yiddish author Isaac Bashevis Singer discusses his collection of short stories, "Short Friday," as well as his writing style and spiritual influences.

Discussing the book "A Second Look In the Rear-View Mirror: Further Autobiographical Reflections of a Philosopher at Large" (published by Macmillan) with the author Mortimer Adler. Program includes an excerpt of a September 21, 1959 interview with Robert Hutchins.

Interviewing Bertrand Russell and Phyllis Evans while Studs was in England.

Discussing the book "Sartre: A Life" (published by Pantheon) with the author Annie Cohen-Solal.

Foreign language expert Howard Vincent talks with Studs Terkel about foreign languages, Herman Melville, “Moby Dick,” and other literary works.

Before admittance, 17 members of the Illinois Bar Association asked George Anastaplo two questions. Should people in the Communist Party be allowed to practice law, to which Anastaplo answered yes. The members then asked Anastaplo if he was a member of the party. Anastaplo refused to answer that question because he deemed it an improper question for the Bar to ask. Anastaplo himself argued his case in front of the U.S. Supreme Court.