Defaults Are Not the Same by Default
A new meta-analysis reveals when and where one of behavioral science’s most successful nudges works best (or not at all).
Top Story
Work Requirements Are (Socially) Toxic Sludge
Work requirements for anti-poverty programs don’t encourage work. Instead, their principal effect is stripping people of the benefits they rely on to survive.
The Passion Paradox: A Conversation with Brad Stulberg
Finding, following, or fostering your passion isn’t as easy as it seems.
What We're Reading
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Dr. Richard Green, 82, Dies; Challenged Psychiatry’s View of Homosexuality
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The New York Times -
To End Racial Disparities in Policing, We Must Look Beyond the Data
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The Guardian -
Legalizing Gay Marriage Reduced Homophobia
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Pacific Standard -
‘Partly Alive’: Scientists Revive Cells in Brains From Dead Pigs
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The New York Times -
Why Did the Suffragettes Write One of Their Fiercest Fighters Out of Their History?
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Pacific Standard
Featured
How Better Urban Planning Can Improve Gender Equality
In the mid-1990s, public officials in Vienna found something surprising when they studied who was using their public parks.
How Misinformation Can Spread Among Scientists
In the mid-19th century, Ignaz Semmelweis knew hand-washing could save lives. But he didn’t know a strong social network could thwart good evidence.
When the Nerves of Knowledge Send False Signals: A Conversation on Our Age of Misinformation
How do false beliefs spread, and what are the consequences?
What if You Could Vote for President Like You Rate Uber Drivers?
Standard remedies to improve turnout focus on making it easier but not on making it more desirable to vote. That can change by giving people more ways to express themselves when voting.
What’s Wrong with Moral Foundations Theory, and How to get Moral Psychology Right
Moral Foundations Theory has theoretical and empirical weaknesses argues Oliver Scott Curry. He proposes a new theory of morality.
Why Are Americans So Divided on Refugee Policy?
How nations set policies on resettling refugees is often framed as a measure of their compassion. New research suggests another explanation.
Who Cares About the Environment?
New research reveals that the general public is largely under the (incorrect) impression that whites are more concerned than nonwhites about environmental issues.
The Hidden Costs of Reminders
Research in partnership with one of the largest charities in Denmark sheds light on why reminders can backfire.
