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Social Influence
You’ve probably noticed that most retailers use prices ending in 99. That’s intentional.
Million Stories
5mins
Humans, like animals, are driven by instincts. But we also have wants. Here’s what that means for our lives.
There are several different types of learner engagement, from emotional to cognitive. Here's how to improve each.
We bring multifaceted selves to our interactions, and in these interactions co-create each other again and again.
8mins
What makes some scientists culturally significant, while others remain in obscurity? Well, there’s a science to it.
As Abraham Lincoln famously said, “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power and a plate of cookies.” (Something like that.)
Research shows that spending more time on social media is associated with body image issues in boys and young men.
The danger posed by conversational AI isn't that it can say weird or dark things; it's personalized manipulation for nefarious purposes.
Some experiences continue to pay dividends time and time again.
Million Stories
5mins
How to defeat debaters who deal in distractions, according to a two-time world debate champion.
The findings contradict a widespread belief.
By exposing people to small doses of misinformation and encouraging them to develop resistance strategies, "prebunking" can fight fake news.
Does donating relieve that anxiety? Or make it worse?
The "attention economy" corrupts science.
Not every "expert" has the expertise to back up their argument.
People tend to underestimate how much a friend they’ve lost contact with would enjoy a simple note saying "hi."
Just as there are many types of believers, there's not only one type of atheist.
John Templeton Foundation
When you imitate the speech of others, there’s a thin line between whether it’s a social asset or faux pas.
Can we stop mass shootings? The first step is collecting data, and these authors have done just that.
Media provocateurs and conspiracy theorists insist that they're "just asking questions." No, they aren’t.
You've heard of Stephen Hawking. Ever heard of Renata Kallosh? Didn't think so.
John Templeton Foundation
AI systems can carry on convincing conversations, but they have no understanding of what they're saying. Humans are easily fooled.
It doesn't matter how ridiculous a lie is. As long as it is repeated often enough, some people will believe it.
5mins
Thinking as a group and going along with the loudest voices can feel easy and even natural. But to make real positive change in our world, it’s important to hear all voices and question the perceived majority.
Stand Together
Scientology, QAnon, and Heaven’s Gate: why do we seek healing from cults?
What makes a face trustworthy, anyway?
If your partner is not helping build a better you, is it time for a better partner?
In spreading politics, videos may not be much more persuasive than their text-based counterparts.
4mins
From Kim Kardashian’s stories to your friend’s Facebook post: social media is designed to keep you jealous.
5mins
What would you do differently if you listened to your true desires?