Stories by Piercarlo Valdesolo

Researchers follow the truth where it leads them, but study shows the personal costs

There are strong negative stereotypes about males—but how we see dads could change that

That feeling when we experience something bigger than us — and how it changes our thinking

Why do some words make people uncomfortable? 

New research challenges the idea that vulgar words are a sign of failure

Not by adding more conservative voices, but by subtracting out bias

We should seek to reduce bias, not balance it out

Psychologists examine where gratitude comes from

Surprising psychology poses an obstacle on thoughts about global warming

Sleep deprived people are told they got a good night’s sleep — and then perform as if they did

Communing with a higher power increases self-control

How a belief in “pure evil” shapes people’s thinking

Psychologists find deep connection between scientific method and morality

A surprising clue to who will win a fight

What body language indicates "trustworthy"?

Researchers find clues to depression in what people do online

Yawning is more contagious among people who are emotionally close

There is, it turns out, more than one kind of "objectification"

Why would the team that's down at the half be more likely to win the game?

The aphrodisiac effect of not knowing how much they like you

There is actually some science behind "magical thinking" and the edge that it can give people

Warning: What you want is not as close as it appears

Even obviously manipulative compliments are remarkably effective

What happens when Harvard scientists use a brain scanner to look for the devil inside?