Video and Multimedia

Click on the following links. Please note these will open in a new window.

Video 1How We Read Each Other’s Minds
Description: Sensing the motives and feelings of others is a natural talent for humans. But how do we do it? In this TED Talk, Rebecca Saxe shares fascinating lab work that uncovers how the brain thinks about other peoples’ thoughts--and judges their actions.

Video 2Are We In Control of Our Own Decisions?
Description: In this TED Talk, Behavioral economist Dan Ariely, the author of Predictably Irrational, uses classic visual illusions and his own counterintuitive (and sometimes shocking) research findings to show how we're not as rational as we think when we make decisions.

Audio 1Why We Can’t Shake Life’s “Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda” Moments
Description: Everyone has regrets. You probably have a few of them. By some estimates, regret is the most common negative emotion that we talk about, and the second-most common emotion mentioned in our daily lives. In this episode of Hidden Brain, we hear regrets from our listeners, talk about different kinds of regret, and explore why we keep coming back to these feelings over the years. This is a great companion piece to our chapter’s material on counterfactual thinking.

Audio 2I’m Right, You’re Wrong: When It Comes to Politics and “Fake News,” Facts Aren’t Enough
Description: In today's political climate, it sometimes feels like we can't even agree on basic facts. We bombard each other with stats and figures, hoping that more data will make a difference. In this episode from Hidden Brain, we learn that we're open to new information--but only if it confirms our existing beliefs. We find ways to ignore facts that challenge our ideals. And curiously, we will learn of evidence that we weigh all opinions as equally valid, regardless of expertise. Still, having the data on your side is not always enough. For better or for worse, emotions may be the key to changing minds.

Audio 3Brain Bugs: Cognitive Flaws that Shape Our Lives
Description: In this report from National Public Radio (NPR), a neuroscientist explains how and why our brains sometimes fail us when we try to do things like remember long lists of information, add large numbers in our heads, or make long-term decisions. This is a fascinating exploration of the idea that the brain's weaknesses and strengths have evolved over thousands of years, based on what our ancestors needed--and didn't need--to survive.