Introducing the Pacific Standard Ideas Section
Pacific Standard's new Ideas section is your destination for idea-driven features, voracious culture coverage, sharp opinion, and enlightening conversation.
Opinions
Consensus Is No Match for False Balance
Quoting both sides leads people to think there's controversy, even when they're told there's consensus.
Flipping Coins to Find the Truth
When direct questions don't get straight answers, pollsters' best strategy may seem a little bit random.
Confirmation Bias Part of America's 'Just Do It!' Culture
New research finds people primed to think in terms of action are more certain of their opinions and less likely to seek out dissenting views.
Four out of Five Experts Agree — With Me!
New research finds we trust experts who agree with our own opinions, suggesting that subjective feelings override scientific information.
In truth, ‘Lie to Me’ Breeds Misconceptions
New research suggests viewing the television drama ‘Lie to Me’ increases suspicion of others, but lessens one’s ability to detect lies.
Bloggers Motivation For Blogging Varies
Why do bloggers blog? It sounds like a trick question, but a study of top political bloggers finds their motivations evolve over time.
Morals Authority
Liberals and conservatives conceive of morality in decidedly different ways. Jonathan Haidt has mapped out their competing ethical universes in hopes they can learn to peacefully coexist.