How important is it to have a best friend? This article explains the health benefits of having close relationships with others. It also points out some interesting differences in cultural expectations related to friendship.
Category Archives: The Individual and Society
More than a century after their land was ravaged by the California gold rush, Yurok Tribe to reclaim territory
| After nearly 200 years of loss, destruction, and survival, the Yurok people are reclaiming a piece of their homeland. This historic return isn’t just about the past, it’s about building a future where Native wisdom leads the way in protecting our planet. |
Sixty years ago, 29 students took a bus ride that changed the way Australia thought about race
| A group of students boarded a bus in 1965, to challenge racism and fight for Indigenous rights. These young activists exposed deep injustices and sparked a movement for change. |
Whether you’re a ‘shark,’ ‘teddy bear’ or ‘fox,’ here’s how to ease conflict with family and friends
Are you a turtle, shark, or owl in conflict? Understanding how we navigate disagreements can unlock better relationships.
How to Create More Belonging for Yourself and Others
It’s important for people to feel like they belong–among their friends and families, in their communities and workplaces, and within society at large. Check out this link to read some tips for helping ourselves and others feel valued and accepted.
Self-care: why looking after No 1 isn’t always best for your wellbeing
Is it better for our health to take care of our own needs or to lend a helping hand to others? Studies suggest that taking part in activities that involve caring for other people can have a positive impact on our own well-being.
Ten Ways to Fight Hate
A civil rights organization shares practical tips for creating unity in the face of conflict.
People Probably Like You More Than You Think
Do you ever worry about the impression you make on someone when you meet them for the first time? The authors of this article have conducted thorough research that suggests people often underestimate how much others like them.
AI ‘companions’ promise to combat loneliness, but history shows the dangers of one-way relationships
At a time when health professionals are warning the public about the effects of loneliness and isolation, can Artificial Intelligence help? The author of this article sees limits to technology’s ability to promote human connection and fulfillment.
The writers who reached out across the divide
How can sharing experiences reduce conflict? Read this article to find out how two writers reached out and made a connection despite deep cultural divisions.
Finding common ground with anyone: A quick and easy guide
Click here for a helpful guide on finding common ground with others.
How Hair Discrimination Affects Black Women at Work
A recent study showed that in the workplace, Black women’s hairstyles are more likely to be perceived as unprofessional. This article suggests a few ways to address hair bias and discrimination.
What happens in the brain when you learn a language?
One great way to expand your worldview is to learn a new language. It turns out that the benefits of doing so reach far beyond simply being able to communicate with more people.
An 85-year Harvard study found the No. 1 thing that makes us happy in life: It helps us ‘live longer’
Researchers found that having positive relationships with the people in our lives is a key contributing factor to our overall health and happiness. Click here to learn more.
Citizen future: Why we need a new story of self and society
The authors of this article recommend major changes in the way we think about the individual and society.
‘I’m a Friendship Expert, This Is How Many Friends You Need’
What’s the best number of friends for a person to have? Click this link to hear from a professor whose research explores this very question.
The History of the American Flag
Learn fun facts about the symbol that represents all Americans, regardless of background or politics.
Americans Are Getting Better at Cooperating With Strangers
Click this link to learn more about a recent study that suggests Americans have become more willing to cooperate with strangers over the past several decades.
Creating Common Ground in Tense, Difficult Situations
It can be hard to find common ground in a tense situation. Click here to read an interview with Chicago’s Superintendent of Police David Brown, who urges Americans involved in conflicts to really listen to each other, see past their differences, and work together in a spirit of collaboration.
How Watching a Good Deed Elevates and Inspires
You might do a good deed for someone else just because it’s the right thing to do. Research shows, though, that you’re more likely to do that good deed if you’ve recently seen someone else do a good deed. This article discusses the infectiousness of altruism.