Why Yesterday Feels Warmer Than Today?
What if the past we long for never really existed?
Why does an old song transport us to a forgotten summer? Why do childhood memories seem brighter with time? And why, when the present feels uncertain, do we convince ourselves that life was better yesterday?
On this episode of Infinitely Curious, the English-language program of ERT and Voice of Greece. journalist Katerina Batzaki explores the fascinating history, psychology and seductive illusions of nostalgia.
Through insights from psychologists, researchers and storytellers, we discover why nostalgia can be both a source of comfort and a trap.
Social psychologist Clay Routledge explains how nostalgia strengthens our sense of belonging, identity and purpose, helping us navigate uncertainty and find meaning in our lives.
We explore the science behind nostalgic memories — why familiar sounds, smells and images trigger powerful emotions, and how our minds selectively reconstruct the past, often making it seem more beautiful than it was.
Belgian writer and storyteller Guido Everaert challenges the dangerous myth of the “good old days”, revealing how idealising yesterday can distort our understanding of history, influence society and prevent us from imagining a better tomorrow.
And Oxford-trained clinical psychologist Dr Romi Ran explores the gap between reality and perception, showing how the stories our minds construct shape the way we experience our lives.
Is nostalgia a bridge to who we are — or a beautiful illusion that keeps us from becoming who we could be?
Perhaps the real danger isn’t remembering yesterday. It’s forgetting to live today.
Because one day, today will be the yesterday we miss.
Produced and presented by Katerina Batzaki
Sound editing: Nikos Savorginakis