Cognitive Science

Are the eyes really the window to the soul? New electroencephalogram research provides evidence that the brain works much harder to evaluate an expression when the rest of the face is hidden.

When readers encounter expected political viewpoints, they often fall for misinformation. A new study reveals that reading surprisingly opposed viewpoints on trusted platforms forces people to think harder, dramatically improving their ability to spot false claims.

A recent study found that the human brain applies different standards of beauty depending on the type of visual art it evaluates. Architects and painters weigh visual features like symmetry and complexity quite differently.

Learning to read does more than help you understand written text. A new brain imaging study reveals that formal reading education physically changes the neurological pathways humans use to process and decode spoken language.

Presenting people with highly exaggerated arguments in favor of a controversial topic might actually make them oppose it more strongly. New research suggests that this unconventional persuasion technique can effectively shift opinions on morally charged social issues.

What makes a successful college student? Researchers analyzing data from over 35,000 graduates found that general cognitive ability and a strong work ethic predict college grades better than any specialized academic skills.

Can you recreate the mental benefits of a forest walk simply by diffusing tree essential oils indoors? A new study suggests the answer is no, finding no cognitive or mood improvements from smelling fir or cypress oils.

When you view a photograph of someone holding another photograph, you subconsciously judge the person in the nested image as possessing less of a mind. A recent study reveals just how remarkably stubborn this visual bias really is.

Want to generate better ideas? A new study tracking daily movement and imagination found that taking a brief, brisk walk can visibly boost your verbal creativity roughly an hour later.

Far from a blank slate, the infant brain begins with an overabundance of random neural connections. Neuroscientists discovered how trimming this excess wiring transforms the hippocampus into a powerful, structured memory machine.

Does dropping an f-bomb make you stronger? A new study suggests that swearing improves physical performance. Researchers discovered that cursing tricks the brain into dropping its inhibitions, allowing people to tap into extra strength.

A new brain imaging study suggests that highly proficient adults rely less on the brain's motor regions to process numbers. As math skills improve, the brain shifts away from physical representations to highly automatic, efficient processing networks.

A recent study suggests that negative emotions tied to everyday memories fade much faster than those linked to sexual experiences. Researchers found that while the brain naturally softens bad memories, intimate encounters resist this emotional fading process.

A new psychological study reveals that cognitive difficulties are linked to behavioral addiction, not the mere act of playing video games. While individuals at risk of gaming disorder struggle with working memory, recreational gamers actually display enhanced attention.