Wondering
A series of random questions answered by Harvard experts.
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Science & Tech
When we say ‘smart,’ what do we mean?
Computer scientist says we should shift focus to ‘educability’
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Health
Soda is bad for you yet your body wants it. Why?
Psychiatrist explains why we crave junk food — and how to cultivate healthier eating habits
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Science & Tech
Should kids play Wordle?
Early childhood development expert has news for parents who think the popular online game will turn their children into super readers
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Health
Does your brain reflect your sex?
Precision medicine is just one field where the answer matters
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Work & Economy
Why do I like what I like?
Your preferences aren’t as original as you may think, says behavior scientist
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How old is too old to run?
No such thing, specialist says — but when your body is trying to tell you something, listen
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The 20-minute workout
Pressed for time? You still have plenty of options.
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How to deliver very bad news
It’s hard to be a doctor. This is when it’s really hard.
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How to prepare for a trip to space
Astronauts spend years training for missions. How do commercial travelers get ready?
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Is organic better?
Not if you follow the evidence, researcher says
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Next spat with your partner, try silence
If you’re doing all the talking, then you’re probably doing it wrong, says negotiation expert.
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How to judge a painting
Do: Ask questions and keep an open mind. Don’t: Say your child could’ve made that.
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Can you be close without sex?
Healthy intimate relationships vary but share one key feature, says psychologist
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How to write funny
For Cora Frazier, it usually starts with deep sadness
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Faster, fitter?
Not really, says Spaulding Rehab expert. When you go for a walk, focus on this instead.
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Nothing that is not there and the nothing that is
You’ll never experience a black hole, but Avi Loeb can help you imagine one
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Is cycling safe?
We shouldn’t take no for an answer, researcher says
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The language of dreams
Proficiency, place, emotion, or something else? These late-night conversations defy easy explanation.
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What’s a little envy between friends?
The feeling can eat you alive — but only if you let it
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Does your dog care if you die?
Any owner would say yes. Here’s what the science says.
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Should married couples live apart?
Separate takes from husband-and-wife psychiatrists on distance, drift, and how to stay connected
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Why that song is stuck in your head
Brain scientist explains earworms
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When will a robot write a novel?
In considering whether a robot could write a work of fiction, the computer science Krzysztof Gajos says it depends—trashy novel or a good one?