JC writes, “The broken triangle is an illustration of the Gestalt law of closure. The law of closure demonstrates how the mind creates wholes out of parts – and a world out of sensory information – by “filling in the gaps.” Although I’m no longer a professional social scientist, the law is a useful one in the realm of public policy where I’m currently employed. Personally, I use it as a reminder to stay humble, because you never know how much of the world you’re making up as you go along.”

Click here to go to the full Science Tattoo Emporium. 

Originally published May 8, 2008. Copyright 2008 Carl Zimmer.

by the old man of the blogs, Andrew Sullivan, and even the editorial page of the New York Times. Who knew a few clever flies could win so many friends? 

Originally published May 7, 2008. Copyright 2008 Carl Zimmer.

Orla writes, “I’m a Zoology undergrad in Dublin, Ireland. I got this tattoo of an orangutan to ensure that, even if they die out in the wild, which seems to be quite likely, they’ll still be remembered. The noblest of the apes sits on my lap forever.”

Click here to go to the full Science Tattoo Emporium. 

Originally published May 7, 2008. Copyright 2008 Carl Zimmer.

I’m in a celebratory mood. Microcosm is published today. In my mind, I can see the books moving out of warehouses onto trucks, off to book stores and front door steps. This morning I read a great review from Mykola Bilokonsky at Newsvine. (“What are you waiting for?” he asks.) And tonight I’ll be having a little get-together, with the weather cooperating in splendid fashion. To spread the cheer, let me invite you to participate in a contest to win a copy of Microcosm that I will personally sign.

Continue reading “Microcosm Day! Ask A Question and Win a Signed Copy” →

In tomorrow’s New York Times, I take a look at the evolution of intelligence. Or rather, I look at its flip side. Scientists and the rest of us are obsessed with intelligence–not just the intelligence of our own species, but any glimmer of intelligence in other animals. I’ve written plenty of stories myself on this research, from the social brilliance of hyenas to the foresight of birds. But if these faculties are so great, then why aren’t more animals smart? The answer, experiments suggest, is that learning and memory have nasty side-effects. They can even shorten your life (at least if you’re a fly).

Continue reading “The Cost of Smarts” →