Category Archives: Taking Risks

A controversial technology could save us from starvation — if we let it

This article examines the benefits of CRISPR, a gene-editing technology that could improve how we produce food.

What Makes Risk Takers Tempt Fate?

Research and varirous studies show that genes, psychology, and environmental factors all play a role in whether a person is a risk-taker.

Beowulf Is Back!

Writer James Parker contemplates the connection contemporary society has with the epic poem and reviews some of the film and comic book adapations of the past two decades.

Exotic pets: Why do Americans keep dangerous animals?

Journalist Louis Theroux visits the owners of exotic pets to discover their appeal.

The Risky Side of Creativity: Domain Specific Risk Taking in Creative Individuals

In this scientific study, researchers explore the link between creativity and risk-taking.

Should I let my child take more risks?

Parents understandably want to protect their children from harm. But should they loosen the reins?

Willingness to take risks: A personality trait

Researchers from Universität Basel have found evidence that willingness to take risks is a personality trait. They call for other researchers to ensure their measurements of risk include many types of situations.

5 wild risks taken by top entrepreneurs

These risks taken by famous business leaders led to big rewards.

Hurricane Harvey shows benefits, risks of turning to social media in disaster

Social media has become a useful tool when seeking and disseminating information during a national disaster, but there are a few risks to keep in mind.

The Science—and Art—of Taking Risks

This article offers tips for contructive risk-taking.

Philippe Petit

Meet Philippe Petit, a man who said, “To me, it’s so simple that life should be lived on the edge of life.” Read his biography to learn about the risks this man is renowned for taking.

The Real Risks of Texting and Driving

This article explores why teenagers continue to text while driving even when they understand the risks.

Maybe Your Comfort Zone Isn’t What You Think It Is

Psychologist Sarah Newman makes a distinction between avoiding things you fear and avoiding things you simply don’t like.

Saying yes to the world: Writer Anthony Doerr in Houston

English professor Doni Wilson reflects on a literary event in which author Anthony Doerr read from his short story “The Deep” and discussed his passion for life and the natural world.

In the Age of ISIS, Is War Reporting Worth the Risk?

Journalist Janine di Giovanni reflects on how war reporting has become more dangerous since she started her career over 20 years ago.

Kill All the Mosquitoes?!

Scientists across the globe are researching how to prevent the spread of disease by altering the genes of mosquitoes, but ethical questions continue to arise.

Extreme sports: What are the risks?

In this humorous essay, statistician David Spiegelhalter analyzes the numbers of injury and death of extreme sports participants.

Challenger Disaster

On January 28, 1986, the space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after liftoff, killing all seven of its crew members. At this site, you can read and watch videos about this national tragedy.