-
Why We View the Past as Better Than the Present
There’s a reason why no one ever talks about “the bad old days.” A nostalgic longing for bygone times—and a sense that the present doesn’t stack up well against the past—is a common sentiment. … “People
-
‘Moon Joy’ and the Overview Effect—How Views from Space Change Us
“The moon we are looking at is not the moon you see from Earth whatsoever.” That’s how Artemis II astronaut Christina Koch described our natural satellite as the mission’s spacecraft drew closer to the moon on April
-
Why You Should Put Down Your Phone and Daydream Instead
At any bus stop or while waiting in line, most people will have their heads down looking at their phones. Recent research found that many people check their phones at least 50 times per day. But
-
What Is ‘Functional Freeze’?
Let’s face it: The holidays aren’t always the happiest time of the year. We’re busier than usual, scurrying around buying presents, mailing cards and attending events. We’re battling the nasty winter illnesses that pop up
-
Anyone Can Be an Altruist
What’s really going on inside the brain of an altruist? Why do altruists care so much more for a stranger who needs help? Why are they so willing to give away a kidney? In this
-
Quirky Rituals May Feel Arbitrary, But They Can Strongly Affect Well-being
… Historically, rituals have acted as a social glue. “We’re especially interested in being like our family, and members of our community, of our region or country,” said Cristine Legare, a professor of psychology who
