The story of Psyche and Cupid teaches us about the power of love and the importance of facing our fears. Psyche's beauty was both a blessing and a curse, but it was her bravery that ultimately led her to true love with Cupid. Along the way, she had to complete impossible tasks and face the unknown, but she persevered with the help of the unseen voice. Through her journey, Psyche learned that love can conquer all, even when it seems impossible. As students, we can learn from Psyche's determination and courage to face our own challenges and pursue our passions. By taking risks and embracing the unknown, we can discover our own strengths and find fulfillment in our academic and personal lives.

The Music Instinct by Philip Ball is a fascinating exploration of the profound mystery of why all human cultures make music. Without any specialist knowledge of music or science, Ball interweaves philosophy, mathematics, history, and neurology to reveal how our minds understand and respond to music. From Bach fugues to heavy rock, this book provides a comprehensive and accessible survey of what is known and still unknown about how music works its magic, and why it seems indispensable to humanity. It not only deepens your appreciation of the music you love but also guides you into pastures new, opening a window on music that once seemed alien, dull or daunting. Recommended for music lovers, students of psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and history, as well as anyone interested in exploring the mystery of why music is so essential to humanity. The Music Instinct by Philip Ball provides a fascinating insight into the latest research in music psychology and brain science, piecing together the puzzle of how our minds understand and respond to music. This book offers a passionate plea for the importance of music in education and in everyday life, arguing that, whether we know it or not, we can all claim to be musical experts. It is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of music and explore its profound impact on human culture and society.

Morality is a concept that has intrigued and confounded humans for centuries. At its core, it refers to the principles or values that guide human behavior and differentiate right from wrong. But what exactly makes an action moral or immoral? How do different cultures and societies define morality? What role do emotions and reason play in moral decision-making? These are some of the questions that continue to challenge and fascinate academics in the field of moral philosophy. One interesting fact about morality is that research suggests that it may be innate to humans. A study conducted with infants showed that even at a very young age, babies display a preference for characters who help others over those who hinder them. This suggests that a sense of morality may be hard-wired into our brains from birth. Another area of interest for moral philosophers is the role of emotions in moral decision-making. For example, the moral philosopher Jonathan Haidt has argued that emotions such as disgust and empathy play a crucial role in shaping our moral judgments. He has proposed a theory of moral foundations, which suggests that there are several innate moral instincts that guide human behavior, including care/harm, fairness/cheating, loyalty/betrayal, authority/subversion, sanctity/degradation, and liberty/oppression. Academic terms and concepts relevant to the study of morality include deontology, consequentialism, virtue ethics, and moral relativism. Deontology is a moral theory that emphasizes the intrinsic value of certain actions, regardless of their consequences. Consequentialism, on the other hand, evaluates the morality of actions based on their outcomes. Virtue ethics focuses on the character traits that lead to moral behavior, while moral relativism holds that morality is relative to the culture or society in which it is practiced. One leading academic in the field of morality is Peter Singer, who is best known for his work on animal rights and effective altruism. Singer's influential book "Animal Liberation" argues that animals have moral value and should be treated with the same respect and consideration as humans. He has also written extensively on the concept of effective altruism, which involves using reason and evidence to determine the most effective ways to help others. Remember, exploring academic topics independently can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and seek out diverse perspectives. Happy exploring!

Are you curious about what motivates people to be good? A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis explores the surprising reasons why some people make the effort to be more moral. The study found that many people are motivated to become more moral for self-serving reasons, but they also see potential value in being fairer and more compassionate. Read the full article to learn more about the study's findings and gain insights into your own motivations for moral behavior.

Want to increase your happiness and help others do the same? Join the happiness movement led by Arthur C. Brooks, the Harvard professor and data-driven scholar who has dedicated his career to studying happiness. His seven-week course delves into the philosophy, neuroscience, and social science of human happiness, including the building blocks of happiness like family, career, friendships, and faith. Discover Brooks' secret recipe for happiness, and learn how to apply happiness principles in your life and leadership roles. Join the movement today and spread the word about managing happiness!

Explore how the ancient Buddhist practice of meditation can help tame the restless "monkey mind" and promote inner peace. Discover how recent neuroscience research has shown that mindfulness meditation can improve brain function and boost psychological well-being. Join the journey to enlightenment through the story of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, and learn how to cultivate mental strength and even-mindedness.

As students, you may often wonder about the purpose of human life. The concept of Aristotle's Ergon Argument can help you think more clearly about this topic. Ergon (ἔργον) is the Greek term for "work" or "function," and Aristotle argues that every living thing has a specific ergon, or function, that corresponds to its excellence or virtue. For humans, our unique capabilities of reason and language are what define us and give meaning to our lives. Through cultivating friendships and social relations, controlling our appetites and emotions, developing moral and intellectual virtues, and exploring the nature of the universe, we can exercise our highest and most godlike capabilities. By learning about these concepts and exploring them through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects, you can discover your own unique capabilities and pursue a fulfilling life that is truly your own.

Dive into the mind of one of the most enlightened thinkers of the 20th century with E.F. Schumacher's classic, A Guide for the Perplexed. This timeless metaphysical work offers a series of meditations that illuminate the process of receiving the jewel of its teaching. Explore the depths of Schumacher's wisdom and gain a new perspective on the perplexing questions of life. Recommended for students of philosophy, theology, and metaphysics, as well as anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience. Professionals in fields such as psychology, counseling, and social work may also find value in the insights offered by Schumacher. This work may be of particular interest to those who seek to understand the complexities of the world and their place within it.

Hamlet, one of Shakespeare's most famous plays, is a tale of conspiracy, deception, and moral ambiguity. The play revolves around the protagonist, Hamlet, who is haunted by his father's death and unsure of what might be lurking in the shadows. When he's visited by a ghost that bears his father's face, he's convinced that his uncle Claudius usurped the throne and stole Queen Gertrude's heart. Hamlet's indecisiveness and endless questioning raise the question of whether his madness is part of a performance to confuse his enemies or if he's on the brink of insanity. The play highlights the consequences of human error and the ripple effect of toxic mind games. Studying Hamlet's character can help us understand the complexities of human nature and the importance of making decisions. Shakespeare's use of introspective language and melancholic monologues is breathtaking and can inspire us to explore our own existential dilemmas.

The Hero's Journey is a cycle that begins and ends in an ordinary world but passes through an unfamiliar, special world. It involves a call to adventure, assistance, departure, trials, approach, crisis, treasure, result, return, new life, resolution, and status quo. Many popular books and movies follow this formula, including Harry Potter, Katniss Everdeen, and Frodo. The Hero's Journey is a myth that exists in all human cultures and keeps getting updated because humans reflect on their world through symbolic stories of their own lives. By understanding this formula, you can learn to leave your comfort zone, have an experience that transforms you, and then recover and do it again. You don't literally slay dragons or fight Voldemort, but you face problems just as scary. Joseph Campbell said, "In the cave you fear to enter lies the treasure you seek."

In her latest book, "Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Can Make Us Whole," author and researcher Susan Cain explores how embracing the melancholic side of life can lead to creativity, connection, and transcendence. Discover how listening to sad music and experiencing bittersweet states of mind can be intimately connected to the most sublime aspects of being human, including awe, wonder, and spirituality.

In "Stumbling on Happiness," Harvard psychologist Daniel Gilbert explores why we're better at forgiving infidelity than dirty dishes, why we'll pay more to avoid blindness than regain sight, and why we can't remember one song while listening to another. Gilbert delves into the illusions of foresight and imagination that cause us to mis-conceive our tomorrows and misestimate our satisfactions. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and behavioral economics, Gilbert reveals what scientists have discovered about our uniquely human ability to imagine the future and predict our happiness. This witty and accessible book will change the way you think about your own happiness. Recommended for anyone interested in psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, or behavioral economics, "Stumbling on Happiness" provides insights into the quirks of the human mind. Gilbert's exploration of why we're better at forgiving infidelity than dirty dishes or why we'll pay more to avoid blindness than regain sight is relevant to anyone who wants to understand why we make the choices we do. The book's accessible prose and engaging anecdotes make it an excellent choice for anyone interested in exploring the science of happiness and human behavior.

Some philosophers have argued that attaching a "gender" component to the "affordance theory" may shed light on the causes of household labor inequality. The study argues that men and women are trained by society to see different possibilities for action in the same domestic environment, leading to unequal distribution of household chores. The authors believe that societal interventions, such as extended paternal leave, can alter these deep-seated gender divides.

Are you interested in understanding how historical trauma and stress can affect your mental health and physical well-being? Look no further than UC Berkeley's recently hired assistant professor of biological anthropology, Andrew Kim. In a study published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Kim and colleagues found that prenatal exposure to discrimination and violence during South Africa's apartheid regime predicted mental health problems among children born to younger mothers and youngsters whose households were particularly stressful. Kim's work is part of a fast-growing research field, intergenerational trauma, that is uncovering how large-scale trauma from atrocities has a ripple effect in families decades later. Don't miss out on this fascinating and important research!

Are you fascinated by the complexity of human behavior? Do you enjoy exploring the reasons behind why people think and act the way they do? If so, a career in Behavioral Sciences may be just the path for you! Behavioral Sciences is a field that encompasses a range of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and anthropology, among others. It involves studying human behavior, emotions, and thought processes to better understand how individuals interact with the world around them. As a Behavioral Scientist, you could work in a variety of roles, from conducting research to developing interventions that help people overcome challenges in their lives. For example, you could work as a counselor, helping individuals overcome addiction or mental health issues. Alternatively, you could work as a researcher, studying the effects of social media on mental health or the impact of trauma on the brain. Typical duties in the field of Behavioral Sciences include conducting research, analyzing data, and developing interventions or treatment plans. Some common areas of specialization within the field include clinical psychology, social work, and public health. To pursue a career in Behavioral Sciences, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as psychology or sociology. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Behavioral Sciences include strong communication skills, empathy, and an ability to think critically and analytically. You'll also need to be comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and be able to adapt to changing situations. Job prospects in the field of Behavioral Sciences are strong, with a growing demand for professionals who can help individuals and communities overcome a range of challenges. Potential employers include government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private corporations. Notable employers in the field include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, and the World Health Organization. In summary, a career in Behavioral Sciences offers a fascinating and rewarding path for individuals who are passionate about understanding human behavior and making a positive impact in the world. With a range of potential roles and specializations, there's no shortage of opportunities to explore in this exciting field.

Happiness is a universal human goal. We all want to be happy, but how do we measure it? Happiness is subjective and difficult to quantify. In this write-up, we'll explore the science behind measuring happiness, including relevant academic concepts and leading experts in the field. One way to measure happiness is through self-report surveys. Researchers ask people to rate their level of happiness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the happiest. One such survey is the World Happiness Report, which measures the happiness of people in over 150 countries. Another approach is to measure physiological indicators of happiness, such as brain activity and facial expressions. Researchers have found that activity in the left prefrontal cortex is associated with positive emotions. Meanwhile, smiling and other positive facial expressions are also indicators of happiness. Leading academics in the field of happiness research include Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ed Diener, and Martin Seligman. Lyubomirsky has researched the impact of positive psychology interventions on happiness, while Diener is known for his work on subjective well-being. Seligman is a pioneer in the field of positive psychology, which focuses on personal growth and well-being. Interestingly, some countries have found innovative ways to measure happiness. For example, Bhutan has created a Gross National Happiness Index, which measures happiness in nine domains, including health, education, and psychological well-being. In conclusion, measuring happiness is a complex and subjective task. However, through self-report surveys, physiological indicators, and innovative approaches, researchers are making strides in understanding what makes people happy. By exploring these academic topics further, high school students can deepen their understanding of happiness and well-being, and apply this knowledge to their own lives.

"Dune" by Frank Herbert is a novel that takes place in a far-flung future where humanity rules the stars in a giant feudal empire. Unlike most interstellar sci-fi, Herbert's humans conquered the stars without any computers. Following an ancient war with robots, humanity has forbidden the construction of any machine "in the likeness of a human mind." This edict forced humans to evolve in startling ways, becoming biological computers, psychic witches, and prescient space pilots. Members of these super-powered factions are regularly employed by various noble houses, all competing for power and new planets to add to their kingdoms. "Dune" is not only a story of political intrigue but also a complex ecosystem, where every element works together to produce the planet's essential export. Herbert's world-building also includes a rich web of philosophy and religion. The book is an epic story that spans millennia and is a must-read for anyone interested in science fiction, politics, ecology, and philosophy.

Are you someone who loves to listen and help people? Do you enjoy finding solutions to complex problems? If so, a career in Counseling Psychology may be perfect for you! Counseling Psychology is a field that focuses on helping individuals and groups improve their mental health and well-being. As a Counseling Psychologist, you will work with clients to identify and address their emotional, social, and behavioral issues. You will help them develop coping skills, improve their relationships, and achieve their personal goals. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to truly make a positive impact on people's lives. Imagine helping a teenager overcome their anxiety and depression to become a confident and successful adult. Or helping a family navigate a difficult divorce and emerge with a stronger bond. These are just a few examples of the meaningful and rewarding work that Counseling Psychologists do every day. In terms of typical duties, Counseling Psychologists may work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, and community centers. They may specialize in areas such as marriage and family therapy, substance abuse counseling, or career counseling. Other related fields include social work, psychiatry, and school counseling. To become a Counseling Psychologist, you will typically need to earn a doctoral degree in Psychology, with a focus on Counseling Psychology. Popular undergraduate majors for this field include Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work. Helpful personal attributes include strong communication skills, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude. Job prospects for Counseling Psychologists are generally positive, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. Notable potential employers include government agencies, hospitals, and non-profit organizations. Some specific examples include the National Institutes of Health, the Mayo Clinic, and the United Nations. In summary, a career in Counseling Psychology offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives, while also enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career. If you have a passion for helping others and a desire to improve mental health and well-being, this may be the perfect field for you!

What really happens when we reach for our favourite comfort foods? Is it really about solace and familiar flavours or is there more to it? Research uncovering some surprising contradictions might just change your perception of comfort food forever. People may turn to different types of comfort food depending on their mood, with some foods providing psychological benefits and others merely offering temporary pleasure. By understanding the nuances of comfort food, we may be able to make more informed choices about what we eat when seeking comfort.

Discover the story of England's Lionesses' mentality and their journey to glory in 2022. Learn how the team's 'how to win' culture, instilled by the first psychologist used by any England national team, helped them sweep all before them in the past year. Explore the importance of creating facilitative environments for high performance and positive mental health, and the impact of early psychological support on the team's success.