Thursday, 24 May, 2012

Are humans the only animals that will help another animal without any expectation of reward? Not according to a recent study, which shows they’re willing to help unrelated apes.

The ancients used fire to cook, smelt metal and make pots. It provided warmth, protection against animals, and became a social focus. Fire changed who we are. Could this explain the enduring allure of fire?

Cooperation is a classic human trait, but chimps do it too. A new study sheds light on the “what’s-in-it-for-me” angle of cooperation: It’s good for your genes.

Woman is rescued in wilderness after 5-week ordeal. What is so great about wilderness, and why do so many people think they need it to soothe their souls?

Depression causes more disability than diabetes, cancer or stroke. What causes depression? How is it treated? Can we improve treatment?

Too good to be true: Could a 15-minute essay on your personal values improve school performance among minority students? A new study says yes.

It’s a fact of life: Hurricanes and floods happen. So why are people rebuilding in the path of storms and floods? Is there a smarter way to plan development?

As kids spend more times indoors, experts wonder what is being lost. Do humans need nature?

Science shows a correlation between happiness and health, success and fulfillment. But do they make us happy? Or are we healthy and wealthy because we are happy?

If (gasp!) the subject is too big for a Whyfile, hit the books. Here, we review four great science books, on evolution, environment, fighting nature, and discovering motherly love.