-
Why liars lie: What science tells us about deception
We all do it sometimes, even though we know it’s wrong. But here’s the problem with lying: Research shows that the more you lie, the easier it gets, and the more likely you are to do
-
How viral outrage can backfire
In a series of experiments, psychologists at Stanford showed people social media posts that could easily be seen as offensive — for instance, as racist, sexist, unpatriotic, or xenophobic. If the offensive post was shown
-
Steven Pinker: Can Numbers Show Us That Progress Is Inevitable?
It might seem like the world is getting worse and worse. But psychologist Steven Pinker says that across the board, data suggests we’ve made a lot of progress. The question is — will it continue?
-
Moral Outrage Can Backfire When It Goes Viral
Moral outrage feels good. If you see a social media post that you view as racist, sexist, or otherwise offensive, a stinging reply can be an irresistible temptation. But if too many people take the
-
Can the Psychological Technique of ‘Pre-Conformity’ Help Change Our Harmful Behaviors?
Psychologists have found a simple trick to reduce meat consumption in restaurants. Tell a customer that other people are increasingly choosing the menu’s meatless options, and the customer becomes more likely to order a vegetarian
-
There’s No Innocent Way to Ask Your Son or Daughter About Grandkids
This summer, my family has been spending a month at the beach. It’s been like a daydream come to life: bright days and languid evenings spent with family, including a sparkly 3-year-old and her serene