Guest Thinkers — August 16, 2010

A Note On Comment Policy

In the left side bar, I have had a standing policy on comments for the past year. Here’s what it says:

Keep it substantive, serious minded, on topic, and respectful.

Somewhat curiously, the only time I actually have to take action to enforce the comment policy is when a swarm of ardent faithful from PZ Myers’ blog suddenly surges over here to complain about any criticism of PZ or any suggestion that diverts from the path of militant atheism. It’s what physicist Chad Orzel describes in this post as the “screechy monkey” problem.

A technician in a clean suit inspects a large, segmented, hexagonal mirror inside a circular gray structure.

Hard Science

Why a James Webb Space Telescope mystery doesn’t (necessarily) break cosmology

The JWST's observations of well-developed galaxies early in universal history may coincide with accepted astronomical theory after all.

A book titled "Cultures of Growth" by Mary C. Murphy lying on a dark blue fabric surface.

Business

“Cultures of growth”: How small changes can build stronger, more successful teams

Psychologist Mary C. Murphy explains why growth-mindset teams outperform those centered around a lone genius.

Starts With A Bang

The Universe might never run out of hydrogen

The most common element in the Universe, vital for forming new stars, is hydrogen. But there's a finite amount of it; what if we run out?

Abstract monochrome sketch of two figures, one with head bowed and the other looking downward, conveying a contemplative or somber mood, suggestive of the Chiron effect.

Neuropsych

The Chiron effect: Are “wounded healers” better healers?

Sometimes you just want to hear, "I know what it's like."

Two women in vintage clothing, wearing bows in their hair, engaging in a tend-and-befriend moment on a grassy field, lying facing each other, smiling and talking.

Neuropsych

“Tend and befriend”: The simple relationship hack for burnout resilience

You really can get by with a little help from your friends — if you also look beyond your personal to-do list.

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