The Perennial Power of Ritual

Rituals soothe, excite, and unite people throughout the world. But how exactly do they work, and what makes them so meaningful?

What Can Vampire Bats Teach Us About Friendship?

Friendship is complicated. But bats and their companions may offer us a window into how humans form—and keep—relationships.

The Paradox of Donald Trump’s Appeal

How can a political candidate as offensive and outrageous as Trump be so popular? Fifty-year-old insights into how religion works may hold the key.

There’s No Shame in Shame

New research suggests there is an evolutionary benefit to a feeling most would rather not feel—shame.

I’ve Got the Neanderthal Blues

New research suggests that depression risk, smoking addiction, and other health and cognitive traits may be partially shaped by the Neanderthal DNA that persists in modern humans.