Research shows that conspiracy theories may appeal to people looking to make sense of random events and to alleviate social alienation. But those beliefs may reinforce those motives instead of fulfilling them. More
Vox: In 2013, the psychologist Daniel Kahneman published a book called Thinking Fast and Slowthat popularized a growing theory in the psychological literature. The theory outlines two main channels, or “systems,” in which we think, and how the two of them interact can explain how superstitious thoughts originate and stick More
ESPN: CHICAGO — Greg Maddux was the Opening Day starter in his Braves debut when he beat his former team in Chicago in April of 1993. Cubs fan Dan Lepse remembers it well. “Cubs lost 1-0,” he said. “Coldest I have ever been in my life.” … Psychologist and “happiness More
U.S. News & World Report: Are you spooked by Friday the 13th, black cats crossing your path or having to walk under a ladder? Do you often knock on wood after mentioning your good fortune or throw salt over your left shoulder after spilling it to ward off bad luck More
Scientific American: It is, of course, scientifically impossible for the legendary Curse of the Billy Goat—which dictates that the Chicago Cubs will never win the World Series—to affect the outcome of games in the 2016 postseason. To give credence to the curse (laid on the team in October 1945 by More
New York Magazine: Regardless of your office’s dress code, there’s something to be said for showing up at work in a power suit. The clothes, to a certain extent, make the employee: Past research has shown that dressing more formally can help you focus, make you more confident, and even More
