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The evolutionary origin of paranoia and why it is becoming more common

6 February 2023

Psychologists are forging a new understanding of paranoia, which is helping to explain why more of us are prone to the condition in today’s uncertain world

New Scientist Live fans take a selfie at the show

Join us for a mind-blowing festival of ideas and experiences

11 February 2022

Our award-winning festival, New Scientist Live is back to stimulate, challenge and inspire with some of today’s biggest scientific discoveries and ideas.

No more goody two shoes: Why true altruism can’t exist

11 December 2019

If only the fittest survive, why do good deeds for no return? The enduring mystery of altruism goes to the heart of how evolution does – and doesn't – work

Writing: Making Your Mark reveals the power of the written word

26 April 2019

Is a written culture necessary to make a better culture or better citizens? A smart, satisfyingly deep exhibition at the British Library leaves us wondering

The 'me' illusion: How your brain conjures up your sense of self

5 September 2018

Self-awareness isn't the pinnacle of consciousness - it's just an accidental byproduct of evolution, and a figment of our minds

Can CGI finally convince us that Neanderthals were smart?

14 May 2018

We still see Neanderthals as dim, ape-people despite mounting evidence of their intelligence. Can a CGI makeover with Andy Serkis help transform their image?

To enjoy Robert Newman’s gig, park your scientific scepticism

19 January 2018

The campaigning comedian pricks scientific complacency well enough, but why doesn't he pick on targets his own size?

Effortless thinking: The god-shaped hole in your brain

13 December 2017

Is that rustle in the dark a predator, or just the wind? It pays to think something causes everything – a survival trait that makes us all hard-wired to believe