Evolution and the future of the human race are among topics in Carl Sagan's and Ann Druyan's book, "Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors: A Search for Who We Are." Included is an excerpt of the astronomer Harlow Shapley speaking at the beginning. Carl Sagan also reads an excerpt from the book at the end.

Edward W. Said talks about the importance of language in shifting perceptions of Middle Eastern people, refutes some opinions about Palestine, identities, and overlapping Eastern and Western cultures.

Interviewing philosopher Paul Schilpp.

In Alan Watts' autobiography, "In My Own Way," he explains that the song "Onward Christian Soldier" is militant, and of a militant religion, whereas Zen Buddhism is not militant at all. Watts also says that most of the troubles that go in the world are created by people that take life too seriously.

In this round table discussion the three gentlemen - all composers, musicians, and educators - discuss with Studs contemporary music and the standards for defining a composition in music. In the second hour they discuss what level of knowledge of music a critic should have in order to form a proper opinion of music. All animatedly offer their opinion to both the pro and the con. A movement of both Blackwood and Shapey compositions is played.

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

Poor people, politicians, guaranteed basic income and power are all among the topics that Robert Theobald covers to achieve a better world for mankind. Using the media better to sway the public's opinion, so that the politicians will vote in the masses' interests are all apart of Theobald's plan, too.

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

Studs talks of British philosopher, logician, mathematician, historian, writer, social critic, political activist and Nobel laureate Lord Bertrand Russell, and presents a recorded discussion with Lord Russell from December of 1961. Lord Russell speaks of a strong stance on nuclear disarmament, and the current climate of politics, science and society.