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Tag Archives: Science & Nature
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.
Horror Movies: Why People Love Them
Why do we enjoy horror? Read about the various theories put forward for the popularity of horror movies.
California’s worst drought in 1,200 years in pictures
This series of images shows the devastating effect of the drought in California which has led to sweeping state-wide water restrictions for the first time in history .
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.
The Psychology of a Horror Movie Fan
Discover the reasons why people say they love horror movies, while others hate them.
Announcing the Finalists of the 12th Annual Smithsonian.com Photo Contest
See some amazing photographs showing nature at work in this year’s photo contest finalists for Smithsonian.com.
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.
Does Success Breed Success?
In a 2014 study, a sociology research team at the State University of New York at Stony Brook found that one initial success leads to more success in the future.
Thoreau’s Walden, Present at the Creation
Listen to the radio piece to learn what inspired Thoreau to live at Walden Pond and what he experienced while he was there.
Captured: The moment photosynthesis changed the world
Humans can’t survive without oxygen, but just how did earth’s atmosphere wind up with the perfect amount of oxygen for us in the first place? Here’s a look at the change that made our existence possible.
Bats Are: Important
Over 1000 species of bats are found in nearly every part of the world, but how much do you know about them? Learn about the important roles bats play in their ecosystems at this site from a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the bat population.
What Is Diffusion of Responsibility?
As an adult, you are responsible for your actions. However, when people are in a group, they don’t always take responsibility for taking action. Read about why this occurs and what decisions a person must make, especially in an emergency.
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.
Alone with Arizona’s landscape
Read about how a writer connected to the scenic beauty of Arizona in this travel piece.
The Man Who Invented Mars
Sometimes, we only see what we want to see. For the influential astronomer Percival Lowell, this meant seeing signs of advanced civilization in Mars’s ancient water channels. In spite of evidence to the contrary, Lowell’s vision of an inhabited neighbor in our solar system inspired years of speculation.
Can We Predict Earthquakes?
Watch this short video on ways people have tried to predict earthquakes. But do any of them work so that we can avoid major disasters?
Crows are smarter than you think
Crows remember faces, use tools, and communicate danger to each other. But can they think? Find out what surprising things researchers are discovering about crows’ intelligence.
From World’s Fair to Maker Faire: Isaac Asimov
In 1964, science fiction writer Isaac Asimov made predictions of many technological advancements. Many are here today. Will your work in the future bring more of his visions into our lives?