The Benefits of Optimism Are Real
Source: The Atlantic
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.
Health & Medicine
Memory contaminates perception
Source: The Guardian
An interesting new study that shows how visual working memory can influence our perception of events.
Detroit students want poor school conditions addressed
Source: CT Insider
Young people in the Neighborhood Service Organization’s Youth Initiatives Project are making their voices heard. Find out how their student team work is supporting their teachers.
Why is Being Scared so Fun?
Source: TED-Ed
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)
Source: Live Science
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.
Ukraine war refugees: Swansea Covid field hospital beds donated
Source: BBC
Former field hospital beds are being repurposed for Ukrainian refugees in Wales, an effort that allows more families to stay together. Read about the impact this immigration has had on the Welsh population and child bed poverty.
As climate worsens, environmentalists also grapple with the mental toll of activism
Source: NPR
Environmental activism is hugely important, but so is mental health. Learn how a courageous new wave of activists reconcile the two.
What it’s really like to have autism
Source: TED
Listen to Ethan Lisi discuss autistic behaviors and debunk stereotypes.
City Unveils Campaign to Improve Girls’ Self-Esteem
Source: The New York Times
An innovative New York City program seeks to protect girls from developing a negative body image.
The Power of Introverts
Source: TED Talks
Nobel-Prize winner Albert Einstein was one. Susan Cain presents her ideas about the value of introverts. She argues that though many people today prize being social and outgoing, being contemplative and quiet should also be encouraged and celebrated. Listen to her TED talk or read the transcript.