Uncertainty Takes Hold in American Science
Massive disruptions to the scientific system in the U.S. mean the uncertainty scientists face is no longer about the nature of discovery but about the ability to do science at all.
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What It’s Like to Be…a City Manager
Mediating pickleball noise disputes, shepherding communities through thorny decisions, and practicing radical pragmatism with Martha Bennett, city manager of Lake Oswego, Oregon.
What It’s Like to Be…a Barman
Pouring pints for thirsty tourists, defusing situations with drunk patrons, and finding flow in the Friday night rush with Brian Wynne, a barman in Dublin.
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Featured
How Do You Become More Conscientious When You’re Not Conscientious Already?
The easiest way to become more conscientious is to already be conscientious—last week’s to-do list makes writing this week’s easier. But if you can’t lean on your past self, considering your future self can help.
What It’s Like to Be…a Brain Surgeon
Zapping parts of the brain to know where to cut, operating a mouth-controlled microscope that’s worth more than a house, and carrying the weight of life-or-death decisions with Dr. Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa, a brain surgeon at the Mayo Clinic.
We Still Underestimate Others’ Support for Climate Action
People think they’re more alone in supporting climate-positive action than they really are. That’s a problem, because we know people are likely to take action when they believe others are already doing so.
Most Americans Dislike Income Inequality. But They Disagree About Who Should Fix It.
Americans are more critical of the wealthy and less tolerant of income inequality than many believe. So why has inequality persisted and worsened?
What It’s Like to Be…an Aircraft Carrier Commander
Commanding a floating city of 5,000 sailors, intercepting Houthi missiles in the Red Sea, and stripping rank from sailors who cross the line with Captain Chris “Chowdah” Hill, commanding officer of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier.
Vibe Check: AI and Behavioral Science in Silicon Valley
Kristen Berman has worked at the intersection of behavioral science and technology in Silicon Valley for the past decade and a half. What’s her on-the-ground view of where AI is headed?
What It’s Like to Be…a Daycare Owner
Singing cleanup songs, tiring out kids before naptime, and battling the “babysitter” stereotype with Brenda Hawkins, a daycare owner in Maryland.
What a 1980s Power Ballad Taught Me About Emotion
It turns out there is plenty of research about how the senses affect our emotions, but very little on how to strategically use our senses to modulate our feelings. And this is where the opportunity lies.
