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Mind and Behavior
An analysis of Indonesian cave paintings is reframing the history of human art, though whether the paintings really were created by human hands remains an open question.
3mins
“Not only does Mother Nature not care about your happiness, she knows that we need lots of negative emotions to keep us alive.” Harvard happiness professor on why suffering IS necessary:
How to make sure our formative tendencies don't derail us from being the great leaders we are trying to become.
In "Not Born Yesterday," author and cognitive scientist Hugo Mercier makes the case that misinformation is overrated — and other human foibles are underrated.
"If you’re training an AI to optimize for a task, and deception is a good way for it to complete the task, then there’s a good chance that it will use deception."
When stuffed and staring down the last bite, you might hear your mother's voice in your mind.
9mins
Humans are among the most altruistic species that we’ve studied, due to our alloparental instincts – a trait we evolved into that allows us to care for offspring who are […]
Executive coach Jodi Wellman explains how to “make it to the end with no regrets.”
6mins
“How is it possible to do work that you’re proud of and not feel like your job is encroaching on all parts of your life?” Cal Newport, Author of ‘Slow Productivity,’ explains.
Big Think Business columnist Eric Markowitz prefaces his new series on long-term thinking with the experience that almost cut his life short.
9mins
Dr. Aditi Nerurkar on toxic resilience and the importance of gratitude and breathing.
Unlikely Collaborators
In the fight between head and heart, psychologists will win.
Google’s first Chief Innovation Evangelist — Frederik Pferdt — lays out a map for navigating unprecedented change and innovation.
"Fasting...should not be demonized for simply suggesting that we take a break from eating once in a while."
Each year, over half a million migrants cross the deadly jungle separating Colombia from Panama in search of a better life in the United States.
It's good to be a wallflower. But sometimes, you need to show yourself off a bit.
3mins
There’s never been more ways to connect with the people in our lives — so why are we lonelier than ever?
Cognitive systems famously posited by psychologist Daniel Kahneman (1934-2024) may hold the key to a more productive and focused work environment.
“Isn’t it enough to see that a garden is beautiful without having to believe that there are fairies at the bottom of it too?”
Architecture in the age of AI — argues professor Nayef Al-Rodhan — should embed philosophical inquiry in its transdisciplinary toolkit.
7mins
“Happiness is NOT about feelings.” Harvard happiness expert Arthur Brooks debunks the biggest myths about humanity’s most sought-after state, and explains how to actually get it.
4mins
Carrie Berk reveals how she transformed her struggle with anxiety and internet fame by changing her perception and finding her true voice as a writer.
Unlikely Collaborators
The evidence is far less clear than popular media might lead you to believe.
10mins
“We control nothing but influence everything.” Political scientist Brian Klaas on how every decision we make - both massive and miniscule - shapes our futures.
"We should be informed and educated about the risks of AI, but we can’t be afraid,” Khan Academy founder Sal Khan told Big Think.
From flow to emotional intelligence, these insightful books feature actionable advice you can try out today.
Cody Delistraty explores if laughter can help alleviate the physical symptoms of grief.
11mins
Sure, IQ is important, but is as impactful as emotional intelligence? Renowned psychologist and author Daniel Goleman explains.
Our “embodied minds” suggest an eventual escape from mortality via computer is unlikely.
10mins
Are humans naturally selfless? Psychologist Abigail Marsh is using studies on psychopathy and altruism to find out.