What We Can Learn From a Very Fat Bear

Having observed Alaska’s Fat Bear Week, we can see the tradeoffs created by a proposed copper and gold mine.

Why a Free Race Like the Tour de France is Really Expensive

Although spectators watch the Tour de France for free along its route, the race is able to generate huge revenue for its owners.

The Reason We Weren’t Ready For the Pandemic

Trying to grasp our inadequate response to the spread of the coronavirus, we can look back at decades of decisions about pandemic preparedness.

The Surprising Upside of a Lockdown

Observing the lockdowns’ economic impact, two University of Chicago economists compared consumer traffic in places that did and did not shelter in place.

Deciding the Dollar Value of a Life

Among the many variables involved with coronavirus math, the dollar value of a life can help us determine the importance of social distancing.

Why Food Expiration Dates Matter More Now

Because of COVID-19 lockdowns, we care more about those unclear food expiration dates that let us know when to trash what we store in the refrigerator.

Jaywalking and the Tradeoff Between Order and Openness

Looking at activities that range from jaywalking to loading dishwashers, we can see how tight and loose social norms can shape behavior.

What We Did Right During the 1918-1919 Pandemic

Formulating coronavirus policy, politicians and physicians can look at the successful non-pharmaceutical interventions during the 1918-1918 pandemic.

When Daylight Saving Is Not the Best Time

Whereas many of us ask whether we should switch between daylight saving time and standard time, the question is not quite so simple.

What We Can Learn From a Trout

Looking at a hover of trout or a shoal of salmon, we can ask if a fish hatchery is the way to preserve a population for recreation and conservation.