Mind & Behavior

Mind & Behavior

Study the science of how we think, feel, and act, with insights that help you better understand yourself and others.

Close-up image of a baby's ear as the baby rests its head against a striped fabric, capturing the tender moments when they first start to absorb the language around them.
For most of human history, babies probably picked up language by overhearing.
A small clock displaying 9:10 is surrounded by a tangled yellow measuring tape with black markings against a dark background, symbolizing the precision and commitment of intermittent fasting.
"Fasting…should not be demonized for simply suggesting that we take a break from eating once in a while."
A solitary figure is suspended in midair above a textured ground, set against a yellow background.
7mins
Finding meaning isn’t just personally fulfilling — it’s critical to our brain’s development, explains USC neuroscientist.
Black and white image of a band performing on stage. One musician is playing a bass guitar while another sings into a microphone. The scene, embodying punk-inspired leaders, has a dark background.
Half a century ago, idealistic punks shook a fist at the status quo — and their legacy is a blueprint for modern leadership.
Black and white photo of a person on stage, the spotlight effect illuminating them from behind, casting dramatic shadows. A red border frames the image.
It's good to be a wallflower. But sometimes, you need to show yourself off a bit.
A young woman in a white dress with a black sash sits beside a body of water, gazing down, with a dark forest in the background.
3mins
There’s never been more ways to connect with the people in our lives — so why are we lonelier than ever?
Physicists have increasingly begun to view life as information-processing "states of matter" that require special consideration.
Kahneman wearing a suit, rests their chin on their hand while looking thoughtfully ahead.
Cognitive systems famously posited by psychologist Daniel Kahneman (1934-2024) may hold the key to a more productive and focused work environment.
A map with various yellow and brown faces showing different emotions, representing different regions.
50 years ago, Herman Chernoff proposed using human faces to represent multidimensional datasets. It was a good idea in theory — but a disaster in practice.
Image showing multiple notifications of "Direct messages" overlaid with the text "PERCEPTION VS. REALITY" in bold, emphasizing the contrast between appearance and actual experience.
4mins
Carrie Berk reveals how she transformed her struggle with anxiety and internet fame by changing her perception and finding her true voice as a writer.
Unlikely Collaborators
A close-up of two people with rosy cheeks, smiling and laughing together, wearing historical clothing and ornate collars.
7mins
“Happiness is NOT about feelings.” Harvard happiness expert Arthur Brooks debunks the biggest myths about humanity’s most sought-after state, and explains how to actually get it.
A display of vintage Italian newspapers and magazines, including "Cinema," "La Ragione," and "L'Era Nuova," arranged on a table at an outdoor market.
The evidence is far less clear than popular media might lead you to believe.
Abstract illustration of a partial human head with geometric shapes and interconnected lines extending from the top.
From flow to emotional intelligence, these insightful books feature actionable advice you can try out today.
An image contrasts two emotions: the left side shows a close-up of a tearful face, while the right side depicts a woman immersed in laughter.
Cody Delistraty explores if laughter can help alleviate the physical symptoms of grief.
11mins
Sure, IQ is important, but is as impactful as emotional intelligence? Renowned psychologist and author Daniel Goleman explains.
A historical illustration depicts an automaton dressed in Ottoman attire, seated behind a chessboard with mechanical components visible below the table, showcasing an early concept akin to mind-body AI.
Our “embodied minds” suggest an eventual escape from mortality via computer is unlikely.
10mins
Are humans naturally selfless? Psychologist Abigail Marsh is using studies on psychopathy and altruism to find out.
A painting of the Parthenon, an ancient temple with columns and partial ruins, under a clear blue sky. The landscape around it includes scattered stones and minimal vegetation, perfectly capturing the essence of strong presentation skills in historical artistry.
Rhetorical mastery is within everyone’s reach — equipped with some basic techniques you can rock it like Aristotle.
Two people walk hand in hand on a grassy hilltop trail, wearing winter jackets and hats. Sparse trees and a distant landscape are visible under a clear sky.
A researcher weighs in on who’s accountable, when and why, in the eyes of the law — and whether the measures work as intended.