Drawing a blank

Rather than a binary on-off state, a new study examines how sleep and wakefulness can be intermingled in the human brain.

Measuring creativity

How do you go about measuring the multifaceted and unique human quality that is creativity without killing it completely? New research aims to do just that.

Have use-by dates reached their sell-by date?

Next time you’re about to throw food in the rubbish, you should double check the date on it first. Food safety experts say some labelling is confusing – and you could be throwing out food that is actually still perfectly safe to eat.

Daniel Kahneman on ‘noise’

Daniel Kahneman’s new book presents several compelling cases from business, medicine, and criminal justice in which judgments appear to vary for no “good” reason.

‘Talking under water’ with the Red Cross

Kath Stewart served as Australian Army officer on peacekeeping missions and as an official from the International Committee of the Red Cross with just her wits, experience and negotiating skills to calm violent situations.

Bedtime, not screen time

Research from the Gonski Institute for Education at UNSW Sydney reveals parents perceive digital devices as necessary for their kids’ learning but are worried about the distraction and activities they’re missing out on.

Can positive psychology change the world?

An open mind, an open heart and clear thinking are three core capabilities that underlie wise action and can help people and groups change the world for the better.

A new approach to consciousness

A new research centre will bring together philosophers, psychologists and scientists to unravel the mysteries of the human mind.

Confessions – Maeve

We all live our lives, grow old and die – or do we? Perhaps, like “The Man From Earth” there are a special few who never age and live through history in the most special and ordinary ways.

Confessions – Whilst my guitar gently weeps

An enduring love of music has offered consolation to many people through life’s travails, with the power to summon memories as well as offer hope for the future.

Domestic travel safety – 5 ways to stay safe and explore Australia

Although international travel has been halted by the coronavirus pandemic, there are still plenty of ways to explore Australia safely and securely and experience your country in a brand new way.

Counterpoint by Mark Nicol – Indulgence, injustice, and the book of fine scrapes

The New Year can be a time to remember the past as well as look forward to the future, and Open Forum regular Mark Nicol reflects on a boy’s night out before the age of masks and social distancing.