Compendium of Great Science Writing
We’re excited to share some of our favorite science journalism and non-fiction across different fields and why we like it!
Neuroscience
Neural Noise Shows the Uncertainty of Our Memories
This Quanta piece by Veronique Greenwood is simply excellent writing about cognitive neuroscience. It tackles an important topic: how the brain represents the uncertainty of observations. And takes both a historic view while also zooming in on a recent finding. I loved how it explained the fundamental concepts—about probability theory and about neural measurement—so transparently, quoted strongly from experts in the field, and actually explained how the evidence is used to make conclusions. It presents a balanced view of critiques and responses to them. Overall, a great view of what’s really happening in cog neuro. Check it out! — Anna
image credit: Myriam Wares for Quanta Magazine
Psychology
Being in Time
In this article, Paul Bloom, one of the foremost psychologists of his generation, explores our experience of time as both biological individuals — limited to a two or three second window of consciousness — and members of societies that construct time uniquely according to their needs and desires. Bloom is beloved by many (myself included) for his ability to intertwine psychology, philosophy and sociology. Few psychologists working today so aptly describe the mind’s place at the junction of biology and culture. This piece is but one fine example. - Eli
Image Credit: Jonathan Djob Nkondo for The New Yorker
The Story Behind Akili Interactive’s FDA-Approved Video Game
Newsflash: video games can be used for good! Stephanie Sutton interviewed a leader at Akili Interactive after their revolutionary personal use video game was FDA approved to help children with ADHD improve their attentional functions. I enjoyed how clear and engaging the author was in detailing all the considerations that went into creating this amazing therapy. - Raisa
image credit: Easter Seals Crossroads
Biology
The Last Two Northern White Rhinos on Earth
Sam Anderson’s intimate portrait of Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos on Earth, confronts us with the true import of extinction. Understanding the loss of evolutionary ties is not the same thing as feeling it, and this piece is a masterful, albeit heartbreaking opportunity to do the latter. - Eli
Image Credit: Jack Davison for The New York Times
