Authority and Evidence Are Not Always the Same

Information from an authoritative source is automatically valued. A university professor, government agency, prominent newspaper, industry specialist, respected researcher, or well-known institution might inspire confidence. Many times, that trust is justified. Experts can explain complex situations and assess important information better. When authority replaces evidence, problems arise. A respected person can make a mistake, misinterpret … Read more

The Science of Memory: How Retention Works During Learning

Before mastering a new skill, it is crucial to understand how the brain stores and retrieves knowledge. Deep within the brain, complex neural processes take place when people read a book, attend a lecture, or play a musical instrument. Memory is not simply a passive record of events. Experiences and environmental stimuli actually prompt the … Read more