In this video interview, author Malcolm Gladwell explains why he believes that in the Bible story of David and Goliath, David was not the underdog facing a fearful situation.
Tag Archives: Health & Medicine
The Body Politic
We may be in the habit of thinking of bacteria as bad organisms that cause disease, but there’s another side to our relationship with them. In the human body, bacteria outnumber human cells, and as this article explains, we couldn’t survive without them.
Teen Brains, Under Construction
Part of the dramatic tension in Romeo & Juliet is that the audience can predict negative consequences for the title characters’ rash decisions. Why don’t they stop and think instead of jumping to conclusions? Partly because their teenaged brains are still in the process of developing, not ready for life-and-death choices.
Beauty Is in the Brain of the Beholder
Studies show that beauty exists as an abstract concept in the brain which implies it is a perception rather than a reality.
Robin Roberts: I’m Stronger Than I Thought I Was
TV anchor Robin Roberts fought her cancer and faced her fear of it. Besides her doctors, the people in her life were her main supports during her treatments.
Happiness Is Not Only an Individual Matter
Psychologist Paul Dolan argues that making societal improvements will improve individuals’ happiness.
Stephen Hawking: Biography
The subject of the award-winning film The Theory of Everything, physicist Stephen Hawking has changed our understanding of the universe while undergoing substantial changes in his own life.
How social media is helping Nepal rebuild after two big earthquakes
As the effects of the recent earthquake in Nepal became clear, many people have turned to social media to help them locate loved ones and help those affected.
Fear Factor Gene Discovered
Did you know that scientists discovered a gene that influences the brain’s response to fear and danger? Read about it here.
As Life Slips By: Why Eye Movement Doesn’t Blur the Picture
A molecular “glue” has been discovered that builds the brain connections that keep visual images clear and still, even as objects or your eyes move.
How pickpockets trick your mind
The key to a successful pickpocket isn’t sleight of hand, but knowing about how our brains work, according to neuroscientist Susana Martinez-Conde.
Hug a tree – the evidence shows it really will make you feel better
Researchers look into the effects that a growing disconnect from nature may have.
About Pet and Disaster Safety
Pets need your help in a disaster, from a heat wave to a flood. Read what you can do to help your dog, cat, horse, or other pet. Look for the Pets and Disaster Safety Checklist also.
Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation
Psychologist Ryan Howes explains that forgiveness is a singular act, while reconciliation is an interpersonal process.
The Code That May Treat Blindness
Neuroscientist Sheila Nirenberg explains how technology she has built can transmit visual code directly to the eye and bypass damaged cells.
‘Blindness’ May Rapidly Enhance Other Senses
The power suddenly goes out, and you’re left in a dark room; how do you find your way? You might at first think you’re helpless, but your other senses quickly spring into action to compensate for your temporary loss of sight. Here’s a peek at the science behind this ability.
How Near-Death Experiences Work
You’ve probably heard stories about people who were resuscitated from clinical death. They tell of meeting loved ones in a bright light and feeling completely at peace. What causes these impressions?
Feeling powerless increases the weight of the world . . . literally
A sense of powerlessness may make you feel unhappy, but it also has documented physical effects. Here are the results of a study that shows one way a feeling of powerlessness affects your perception of the world in a measurable way.
What Really Scares People: Top 10 Phobias
The movie character Indiana Jones feared snakes, other people are afraid of small spaces such as elevators, while many sweat over tests. Find out what things cause extreme fear, or phobias, in some people.
Local girl collects shoes, makes a world of difference
Teen Emma Rider is on a quest to bring clean water to developing countries. To reach this goal, she has been collecting shoes, new and used, for her project, Quenching Souls. Read about the work she put into her project to help people around the world.