Read one author’s take on our “age of fear” and the rise of the zombie.
Tag Archives: Arts & Entertainment
The Benefits of Optimism Are Real
In this article, Emily Esfahani Smith examines two films, Silver Linings Playbook and Life of Pi, to delve into the relationship between optimism and resilience.
The guitarist who saved hundreds of people on a sinking cruise liner
Heroes can often come in unexpected forms. Read about how this musician’s act of courage prevented an accident from becoming a tragedy.
What Inspired ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’?
Some legends are ancient, but others have risen more recently. Read the history and inspiration of one of America’s first–and most enduring–ghost stories, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
Malorie Blackman’s ‘dynamic imaginary worlds’ win her the PEN Pinter prize
Learn about this incredible author’s commitment to representation and justice through storytelling.
Why is Being Scared so Fun?
Every year in America, nearly 30 million people visit haunted houses and horror movies bring in over half a billion dollars at the theater. Why do people like to be scared? Watch this video with Margee Kerr about the biology and psychology of being scared—and why being scared can be a good thing.
The Most Amazing Optical Illusions (and How They Work)
Thanks to modern neuroscience, we can understand the brain processes that take place we encounter some visual illusions. Explore this collection of popular illusions and find out how they work.
How Cliff Diving Works
Sometimes it’s best to avoid something you’re afraid of, especially if it’s dangerous. Visit this site to learn about one of the world’s most dangerous sports, cliff diving. Discover some of the sport’s basics, its most famous locations, and why it’s a good idea never to attempt it.
How America’s Leading Science Fiction Authors Are Shaping Your Future
Writer Eileen Gunn explores the pessimistic or optimistic views of science fiction authors and how their stories influence real scientists.
The (Still) Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe
Poe’s death is an unsolved mystery. This article present nine theories for the demise of this famous American writer.
A Conversation with Sir Patrick Stewart
In 2010, a modern version of The Tragedy of Macbeth appeared on PBS’s Great Performances. The star of that groundbreaking production, Sir Patrick Stewart, discusses the choices he and director Rupert Goold made to bring Shakespeare’s work to life on the small screen.
New Study Analyzes Heavy Metal Dancing
What is the relationship between mosh pits and nature? The answers to that question might surprise you! Two graduate students (who just so happen to be heavy-metal fans) are studying mosh pits to learn about particulate patterns and animal flocking behavior.
Professor Says He Has Solved a Mystery Over a Slave’s Novel
Gregg Hecimovich, a professor of English in South Carolina, may have successfully identified the woman who wrote The Bondwoman’s Narrative. The novel is thought to be the first written by an African-American woman. Until now, no one knew the author’s true identity.
Play Me, I’m Yours
How can a piano, left in a public place for anyone to use, bring a community together? Read about this unexpected movement to find out.
Wildlife and celebrity photographer reveals secrets behind most iconic shots
Check out this article for a close look at the incredible life and photographs of world-renown photographer, David Yarrow.
Sumaya Sadurni: photojournalist and ‘rock’n’roll Mother Teresa’ dies at 32
Learn about the inspiring life and legacy of this gifted, compassionate photographer.
16-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defeats World Champion Magnus Carlsen
Read about how a teenage chess wiz takes down a record-holding world champion.
Yu & Me Books: Lucy Yu’s Chinatown Bookstore Focuses On Immigrant Stories
This New York bookstore fills its shelves with immigrant voices.
Early edition of US Declaration of Independence to go on sale
Learn about this rare edition of the Declaration of Independence as well as the historic collection it comes from.
How gospel music helped power the Civil Rights Movement
Click this link to read about the long-standing connection between music and activism in Black American culture, including the vital role of gospel music as a form of protest.