The Accents of Our Bodies: Proxemics as Communication
American language educator Max Kirch suggests that adopting the nonverbal habits of another culture gives one’s behavior a "foreign accent."
Do We Actually See Shadows?
In a blackout, you do not hear or taste the darkness; you see it. It looks a certain way. On the philosophy of shadows.
Is Disgust Related to Morality?
The disgust response acts as a behavioral immune system, protecting us from disease, but produces strong reactions to perceived out-groups.
How to Meme What You Say
The linguistic theories behind what we're trying to say when we adapt and share internet memes.
How Accurate Are Prediction Markets?
Will I get COVID-19? Will I have a job in three months’ time? Will the shops have what I need? Research indicates that markets might not know best.
The Science of Baby-Name Trends
What makes a name suddenly pop—and then die? Social scientists and historians have been puzzling over this for decades.
Science Says: Alcohol Can Make You More Social
It might not sound like a shocking conclusion, but there was surprisingly little research on the question.
How Dietary Supplements Can Cause More Harm Than Good
The real problem with useless vitamins and other supplements? A psychological side effect known as "illusory invulnerability."
The Nostalgic Quality of Our Parents’ Music
Behind the curious phenomenon of "cascading reminiscence bumps."
To Save Civilization, Hang Up Your Phone
It's uniquely annoying to listen to one side of someone else's cellphone call. Our technology columnist examines why that is.