Lisa ShepherdThe problem with statistical significanceStatistical significance isn’t the end-all and be-all of truth. Is there a better way forward?Dec 2, 2023Dec 2, 2023
Lisa ShepherdWhy we use “baby talk”We instinctively use high-pitched voices to talk to infants and pets. Is baby talk a silly affectation, or is there an explanation for this…Aug 23, 20231Aug 23, 20231
Lisa ShepherdIs it time to stop naming species after people?For centuries, scientists have named new species after friends, benefactors and cultural figures. But what should we do if a species is…Jun 25, 2023Jun 25, 2023
Lisa ShepherdinPredictOur genes tell us a lot about our immunity — but how closely should we listen?Thanks to advances in DNA sequencing and analysis, clinicians will soon be able to deduce how infectious diseases will affect you…Jun 6, 2023Jun 6, 2023
Lisa ShepherdAll queens, no workers: The evolution of socially parasitic antsA small handful of ant species contain only queens and must sponge off other species to survive. New research on these social parasites…Mar 12, 2023Mar 12, 2023
Lisa ShepherdThe evolution of kindness towards strangersResearchers have suggested humans cooperate because we’re used to living in family groups. What do studies of animal sociality and…Feb 26, 20236Feb 26, 20236
Lisa ShepherdinILLUMINATIONBe skeptical of influencers — including science communicatorsA popular science communicator is being paid to promote fossil fuels. Let’s remember that smart people can still be bought.Feb 11, 2023Feb 11, 2023
Lisa ShepherdVoles can fall in love without oxytocinAlthough oxytocin is classically thought of as “the love hormone”, a new study shows that prairie voles can pair-bond without its…Jan 30, 20232Jan 30, 20232
Lisa ShepherdWhy science has become less innovativeAccording to a recent study, science is less “disruptive” than it used to be. What’s changed?Jan 24, 20231Jan 24, 20231
Lisa ShepherdTaxonomic vandalism: Discovering new species is hard, but only if you’re a decent scientistTaxonomy, the science of classifying organisms, is plagued by those who would ignore evidence to leave a legacy.Jan 17, 2023Jan 17, 2023
