5 TED Talks About Science That You Need To Watch
By Nicole Du
1. Molly Crocket: Beware Neuro-Bunk.
With so many products these days touting “brain-enhancing” qualities, it is only reasonable that we learn how to separate fact from fiction. Who better to inform us than a legitimate neurologist?
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b64qvG2Jgro&w=584&h=390]
2. Dan Ariely: Are We In Control Of Our Own Decisions?
I do not wish to engage in the debate on whether or not economics should be considered a science. That seems to be up to those economists who wish to defend their Nobel Prizes (See: Krugman). But Dan Ariely’s TED talk is awesome/informative regardless.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9X68dm92HVI&w=584&h=390]
3. Christopher McDougall: Are We Born To Run?
There was a point in my life where every boy I knew was reading Christopher McDougall’s book: “Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Super Athletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen.” Were they giant nerds, or just informed runners? You be the judge.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-iGZPtWXzE&w=584&h=390]
4. Michael Specter: The Danger Of Scientific Denial.
Perhaps for next year’s Halloween, it may be fitting to dress up as a needle and go around trying to vaccinate people. Specter warns against the dangers of vaccination fear and other types of scientific denial.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OMLSs8t1ng&w=584&h=390]
5. Penelope Boston: There Might Just Be Life On Mars.
Penelope Boston gives us three amazing reasons to be a scientist:
- Spelunking
- Aliens
- The ability to never stop exploring.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWvXyobH9fg&w=584&h=390]