Category Archives: Interviews

Everything We Knew About Human Vision is Wrong: Author Mark Changizi Tells Us Why

For theoretical neurobiologist and author Mark Changizi, “why” has always been more interesting than “how.” While many scientists focus on the mechanics of how we do what we do, his research aims to grasp the ultimate foundations underlying why we think, feel … Continue reading

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Changing Socrates’ Diapers: An Interview with Author Alison Gopnik

At different points in history, baby brains have been described as blank slates, balls of clay, and information sponges—and the debate about which is closer to the mark has smoldered for centuries. Today, the debate is more refined, though no … Continue reading

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The State of Science Journalism: A Discussion with Science Writer Carl Zimmer

Science journalism is taking it on the chin lately.  Major news outlets are curtailing their science coverage, and in some cases closing down science departments altogether.  In a rough economy–when the overall future of print media is in question–it seems … Continue reading

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Are We Born Believers or Cultural Receivers? A Discussion with Author and Psychologist Bruce Hood

Few topics in psychology are gaining more momentum than the origin of religious beliefs. Questions of whether we’re born with neural apparatus that predisposes us to belief, or whether we learn to becomes believers, or some combination of both, are on the minds … Continue reading

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Diagnosis: DREAD – Talking about Epidemics, Panic and the Revenge of the Germs with Philip Alcabes

By David DiSalvo         It’s a huge understatement to say that panic is part of human nature. We’re all wired to anticipate threats and experience nervous system overdrive when they arrive – our species wouldn’t have made it this far if … Continue reading

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Can You Outsmart Your Genes? An Interview with Author Richard Nisbett

While the debate over intelligence rages on many fronts, the battle over the importance of heredity rages loudest. It’s easy to see why. If the camp that argues intelligence is 75 to 85 percent genetically determined is correct, then we’re … Continue reading

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Psychology for Dummies: An Interview with Authors Laura Smith and Charles Elliott

Depression for Dummies, Overcoming Anxiety for Dummies, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder for Dummies- these are just a few of the titles penned by Dr. Laura Smith and Dr. Charles Elliott, a writing duo with a library of psychology and self-help books … Continue reading

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