5 TED Talks About Science That You Need To Watch

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Once in an interview I was asked the question, “If you were to give a talk on any topic what would it be about?” Flustered, I answered without thinking, “Why, science is cool.” Needless to say, I did not get the position; but in the spirit of my botched, but honest, interview reply, I present: Why science is cool: TED Talk edition.

1. Molly Crocket: Beware Neuro-Bunk.

With so many products these days touting “brain-enhancing” qualities, it is only reasonable that we learn how to separate fact from fiction. Who better to inform us than a legitimate neurologist?
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b64qvG2Jgro&w=584&h=390]

2. Dan Ariely: Are We In Control Of Our Own Decisions?

I do not wish to engage in the debate on whether or not economics should be considered a science. That seems to be up to those economists who wish to defend their Nobel Prizes (See: Krugman). But Dan Ariely’s TED talk is awesome/informative regardless.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9X68dm92HVI&w=584&h=390]

3. Christopher McDougall: Are We Born To Run?

There was a point in my life where every boy I knew was reading Christopher McDougall’s book: “Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Super Athletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen.” Were they giant nerds, or just informed runners? You be the judge.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-iGZPtWXzE&w=584&h=390]

4. Michael Specter: The Danger Of Scientific Denial.

Perhaps for next year’s Halloween, it may be fitting to dress up as a needle and go around trying to vaccinate people. Specter warns against the dangers of vaccination fear and other types of scientific denial.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OMLSs8t1ng&w=584&h=390]

5. Penelope Boston: There Might Just Be Life On Mars.

Penelope Boston gives us three amazing reasons to be a scientist:

  1. Spelunking
  2. Aliens
  3. The ability to never stop exploring.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWvXyobH9fg&w=584&h=390]