Rats' Whiskers Inspire New Way to See

Rats' Whiskers Inspire New Way to See

Author: Scientific American November 14, 2012 Duration: 2:45
Blindfolded subjects were able to successfully use a plastic version of a rat's whisker to help them detect objects. Christie Nicholson reports

Ever feel like you want to understand the latest discoveries about how we think and act, but don't have time for a lengthy lecture? That's the space where 60-Second Mind lives. Produced by the editors at Scientific American, this weekly podcast distills complex, fascinating studies from the realms of psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science into concise, one-minute segments. Each episode, released on Saturday, focuses on a single piece of emerging research or a compelling scientific idea, delivering clear commentary that cuts straight to the core of what it means for our understanding of the human experience. You'll hear about the subtle quirks of decision-making, the biological underpinnings of emotion, and the surprising social forces that shape our actions-all delivered in a format that respects your time. This isn't just a rapid-fire news clip; it's a carefully crafted glimpse into the ongoing conversation about the mind, designed to inform and spark curiosity in the brief moments between other tasks. For anyone intrigued by the inner workings of the brain but navigating a busy schedule, this podcast offers a consistent and reliable dose of insight, proving that profound ideas don't always require a long runtime to make a significant impact.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

60-Second Mind
Podcast Episodes
Training Can Increase Empathy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:40
A particular type of meditation training led study subjects to become more altruistic. Christie Nicholson reports
Memory Loss during Menopause [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:44
Many women complained about memory loss during menopause, but a recent study provides the evidence. Christie Nicholson reports
The Quirk of a High IQ [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:44
It seems that those with high IQs have a beneficial quirk in their ability to perceive a moving scene. Christie Nicholson
How to Enjoy Your Decision [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:47
When facing a lot of choice, it is best to decide on one option and then physically shut off all others. Christie Nicholson reports
Inside the Mind of a Psychopath [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:56
The brains of psychopaths react differently to images of someone being hurt than the brains of non-psychopaths. Christie Nicholson reports
Green Spaces Promote Happier Communities [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:37
A long-term survey of more than 10,000 people finds that green spaces make for better moods. Christie Nicholson reports
Memory Improves with Sleep [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:50
Sleep plays a crucial role in better memory. Christie Nicholson reports
Being Monkey in the Middle Is Stressful [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:49
A recent study of macaque monkeys finds that those who are of middle status tend to experience the most stress. Christie Nicholson reports