Date:

01-13-06

Host:

George Noory

Guests:

Open Lines, Dr. Sky, Nathaniel Lachenmeyer

'13' Superstitions

In the second half-hour, Author Nathaniel Lachenmeyer(1) discussed beliefs and superstitions about the number 13. According to Lachenmeyer, the origin of 13 as an unlucky number can be traced back to the Last Supper, when Jesus dined with his 12 disciples and afterward was arrested, beaten and executed. He said the specific fear of Friday the 13th was unheard of until the 20th century and has become the most dangerous day to drive in America. Despite this, Lachenmeyer pointed out that the superstition has been on the decline for the last 60 years, and suggested people enjoy it as a cultural tradition.

1. http://www.nathaniellachenmeyer.com