Moral Outrage Can Backfire When It Goes Viral
As negative comments accumulate, they start to come across as bullying—even if they're justified.
Morality
For All the Benefits of Studying Mathematics, Some Critics See a Dark Side
Could the objective assurance in correct answers mandated in mathematics education teach students to be similarly calculating and assured when it comes to daily moral conundrums?
Is It Just an 'Atheists' Club'? Inside the House of Representatives' New Freethought Caucus
As religious tensions flare in the House, four Democratic congressmen are launching a new group dedicated to science-based policy, separation of church and state, and freedom for all—including atheists.
A Hands-on Approach to the Trolley Problem
New research finds our moral impulses may vary considerably depending on whether we're thinking about them, or acting on them.
Do Unto Others? Sure—If They're in Our Social Circle
New research reports the moral imperative to help those in need is much weaker if the needy person in question is a stranger.
Do Ethics Have a Place in Business Schools?
Research tends to show that business school tanks ethical and moral standards. But a generational shift is offering new hope.
The Dark Side of Music
Two new studies point to various ways music can influence our behavior.
Identity Is Lost Without a Moral Compass
Research on neurodegenerative diseases suggests that, more than anything else, moral traits like kindness and integrity define who we are.
Empathy for the Rest of Us
Why we cringe for our fellow humans, and why it's so important.
Why Aren’t Ethics and Morality Considered Relevant in Debates Over Wildlife Culls?
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of killing thousands of cormorants without even considering the ethics.
Hacking Our Moral Compass
Neurostimulation techniques could change how we feel about ethical dilemmas.
The Leader of the Pack
Stories about athletes with flawed character are endless, but what about those who exceed our expectations?
Thank God for Risky Behavior
New research finds thoughts of the almighty increase our propensity to take chances, unless morality is involved.
Study: Morality Can Trump Tribalism
Encouraging research points to a way to decouple loyalty to one’s own tribe with disdain for outsiders.
Study: Americans Intuitively Judge Atheists as Immoral
New research finds a link between disbelief and unethical behavior is strongly lodged in Americans’ minds.
Poor People Judge Harm-Doers More Harshly
New research suggests this reflects their greater vulnerability to people who commit injurious actions.
Yes, I’m an Ethical Person–Before Lunch, Anyway
Researchers report people are more likely to behave in a morality-minded manner earlier in the day.
What Does Being a Vegetarian Say About You?
It largely depends upon where you live. Vegetarians in India and the West are both driven by ethical concerns, but the moral codes that drive their eating choices are very different.
Thoughts of Faith and God Decrease Tolerance for Ambiguity
New research finds exposure to Christian ideas—or even standing in the shadow of a cathedral—nudges people in the direction of black-and-white thinking.
Thinking of Science Strengthens Moral Fiber
First-of-its-kind research finds a surprising relationship between science and morality.
On Moral Values, Liberals More Prone to Stereotype Than Conservatives
New research finds people on both sides of the ideological divide caricature the other, but those on the far left are the most guilty.
Further Evidence Links Creativity, Dishonesty
That was a brilliantly original idea you came up with. But, wait—where’s my wallet?
Kids Just Wanna Be Helpful
Eye-opening research with 2-year-olds suggests young children are inherently motivated to help others in need.
Should We Let Violinists’ Bad Behavior Slide?
Would you vote for a musician who was clearly better than her competitor, but also behaved immorally?