perception
Why People’s Faces Look Different Under Their Masks Than You Expect
Our brains fill in what we can’t see—like the lower half of someone’s face—but those predictions are often incorrect.
The Pandemic Let Us Exist Without Being Perceived. Some Don’t Want That to End
With lockdown measures starting to lift, it’s normal to feel anxious about being seen again.
Filters That Invert Your Face Are Everywhere. Here’s Why It Looks So Weird
TikTok and Zoom allow us to reverse the mirror image we see in our selfie cameras, and it’s freaking everyone out.
Talking to Yourself Is Normal, But So Is Staying Quiet
Your inner monologue might sound like how you speak out loud—or a more abstract form of expression all your own.
Making an Appearance at a Conference for Ugly People
At the first annual Ugly Conference, attendees aren't trying to "reclaim" anything. They're just trying to be seen as they are.
Research Has Probably Been Overstating How Smart Dogs Are
And other science headlines you don't want to miss.
I Asked Friends, Family, and Exes to Tell Me WTF Is Wrong with Me
I was recently ghosted by yet another guy. It got me to thinking that maybe I'm the problem?
Your Brain Might Be Distorting Reality
Some researchers are finding that the things you do could change what your brain sees–but not everyone is convinced.
Neuroscientists Hack Itching, Exposing a Mysterious Neural Circuit
A key to understanding why scratching an itch feels so good.
Narcoleptics Can Have a Hard Time Telling Dreams From Reality
It's worse than wondering if you really ate that late-night sandwich.
This Glass Umbrella Pipe Is Incredible Even If You Don’t Smoke
Intricate blown glass pipes and weed-smoking oil portraits take over Chesterfield Gallery in New York.