Dave Nussbaum

Two articles from Behavioral Scientist’s Brain Meets World were recognized with journalism awards from the American Society of Journalists and Authors. “Behavioral Science in the Backcountry”—about the quest to understand the “human factors” in avalanche deaths—by Greg Rosalsky earned the top award in the Sports category. “Places Unexpected”—by Evan Nesterak about two road-tripping neuroscientists, who traded the lab for a year on the road—earned an honorable mention in the Travel category.

Humans have long used religion to understand the world. The ancient Greeks believed that Poseidon governed the waves at sea, and Athena guided soldiers in battle. In Chinese mythology, the goddess Chang’e orchestrates the cycles of the moon, and the Dragon King controls rainfall. Throughout history, cultures have developed supernatural explanations to explain the mysteries of life. Supernatural explanations turn religion into a powerful meaning-making tool.

Over recent weeks I’ve been sharing parts of a “manifesto” that tries to give a coherent vision for the future of applied behavioral science. Stepping back, if I had to identify a theme that comes through the various proposals, it would be the need for self-reflective practice. Behavioral science has seen a tremendous amount of growth and interest over the last decade, largely focused on expanding its uses and methods. My sense is it’s ready for a new phase of maturity.