Why magical thinking is so widespread – a look at the psychological roots of common superstitions
An anthropologist explains why we all have some irrational beliefs and the reason they give us comfort.
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Slime is all around and inside you – new research on its origins offers insight into genetic evolution
A vast array of species, including people, use slime for a variety of essential bodily functions. Studying the genetic ancestry of slime surprisingly showcases the role of repetitive DNA in evolution.
If all the vehicles in the world were to convert to electric, would it be quieter?
Noise pollution is a serious problem, and cars make a lot of it. But roads are also a factor.
Schools are the ‘hubs and hearts’ of neighborhoods – here’s how they can strengthen the communities around them
Community members want their schools to address issues beyond academics, new research suggests.
These high school ‘classics’ have been taught for generations
An English professor takes a critical look at why today’s students are assigned the same books that were assigned decades ago – and why American school curricula are so difficult to change.
Climate scientists: concept of net zero is a dangerous trap
Prominent academics, including a former IPCC chair, round on governments worldwide for using the concept of net zero emissions to 'greenwash' their lack of commitment to solving global warming.
«The only way to keep humanity safe is the immediate and sustained radical cuts to greenhouse gas emissions in a socially just way.»
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The arrival fallacy: why we should decouple our happiness from our goals
“When I achieve this goal, then I will be happy.” We often mistakenly believe that achieving our goals will make us happy. That tendency is called the arrival fallacy.
«Although completing a goal may lead to the arrival fallacy, Dr Tal Ben-Shahar maintains that having objectives is essential to personal growth.»
How to break unhealthy habits: Stop obsessing over willpower and focus on routines
Understanding and changing the environment in which habits form is a critical step when it comes to breaking unwanted behaviors and forming healthy ones.
«Instead, we concoct more compelling explanations, like saying we drink coffee to ease our morning fog.»
How colours affect the way you think
Our world is awash with a rainbow of colours, but certain shades can have a surprising impact on our ability to concentrate, our mood and even our taste.
«And if you want a child to concentrate, you might consider painting a classroom in a vivid palette and so bolster their reading scores.»
Why Great Things Never Came From Comfort Zones
Why great things never came from comfort zones? Because the world is always changing. We need to face uncertainty to move forward.
«But what you’ll find out eventually. If, of course, you decide to stick with these scary routines. Is that life feels much more meaningful.»
The Value of 'No'
What we can learn from rejections.
«If you hear "yes" at every single career stage, you probably did not reach high enough. If you never hear "no," chances are you did not take many risks (or you are just exceptionally talented, lucky, or both).»
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