Social Sciences

The tale of how the "backfire effect" ultimately, itself, backfired, and what scientists can learn from being wrong

What makes a word survive or go extinct?

A novel about the tensions between nature and modernity, animal social networks, and more books out now

Reducing noise improves health, JWST’s galaxies change astronomy, and there’s new hope for people with prostate cancer

Pavlov’s dogs; Mercury’s dark side

Science in meter and verse

Letters to the editors for the January 2024 issue of Scientific American

Writers, artists, photographers and researchers share the stories behind the stories

Making schools more welcoming for all can make for a fair and just society

Scientific expertise is typically limited and specific. When evaluating scientific claims, look to the relevant experts

In cultures hostile to African hairstyles, so-called dreadlocks have long been a countercultural symbol for those who stand in opposition to oppressive ideals

Ancient prophecies of worlds destroyed by fire are becoming realities. How will we respond?