Lisa Shepherd·Dec 2, 2023The problem with statistical significanceStatistical significance isn’t the end-all and be-all of truth. Is there a better way forward?
Lisa Shepherd·Aug 23, 2023Why 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…A response icon1A response icon1
Lisa Shepherd·Jun 25, 2023Is 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…
InPredictbyLisa Shepherd·Jun 6, 2023Our 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…
Lisa Shepherd·Mar 12, 2023All 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…
Lisa Shepherd·Feb 26, 2023The 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…A response icon5A response icon5
InILLUMINATIONbyLisa Shepherd·Feb 11, 2023Be 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.
Lisa Shepherd·Jan 30, 2023Voles 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…A response icon2A response icon2
Lisa Shepherd·Jan 24, 2023Why science has become less innovativeAccording to a recent study, science is less “disruptive” than it used to be. What’s changed?A response icon1A response icon1
Lisa Shepherd·Jan 17, 2023Taxonomic 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.
