Weak Arguments for Weak Minds

Research argues that providing someone with weak arguments for a cause they believe in is more powerful than providing strong arguments.

Research found that people were more likely to persuade others to vote for their cause if provided with weak arguments because it fooled them into thinking they could also contribute. Weak arguments were found to inspire people if their self-belief was relatively low. Weak arguments against one's position also increased participation. So, to increase participation, advocacy groups may want to show their supporters weak arguments for and against their position!

To Increase Willpower, Give in

In a famous study, participants smelled and were shown cookies but some were asked to eat radishes. Afterwards, the participants were asked to solve a puzzle. Radish eaters made far less attempts and took less than half the time to solve the puzzle vs. the chocolate-eating counterparts. In other words, those who exercised will power depleted it.

So if you want to increase will power, give in every once in a while.

Judge Early

A case study finds that Israeli judges favorable rulings went from ~65% to ~0% w/in each decision session and abruptly returned to ~65% after a break.

In one case of 3 prisoners with comparable sentences, the odds favored the prisoner who appeared early in the morning — and he got parole. The Arab Israeli prisoner, and thew Jewish Israeli prisoner (whose sentence was shorter than the man released) were denied parole. They were just asking for parole at the wrong time of day. Case after case mentally tired the judges.

Swearing is ... Good?

Swearing at work, research finds, can build relationships between co-workers and relieve stress. Apparently, swearing, if not intended to degrade, can build solidarity by honestly conveying one's feelings.

Monkeys & Fairness

A fascinating video indicates that monkeys have a basic understanding of fairness - and injustice.

Air Plants

Air plants are plants that grow without soil, normally - but not necessarily - attached to other plants. Because they rely on the air to provide moisture and nutrients (decaying leaves and insect matter), they aren't considered parasitic.

Milky Way Gets Downsized

Research reveals the Milky Way has only two major spirals of stars - not four as previously thought.