Life Science
From the smallest microbe to the largest mammal, Life Science explores the origins, evolution and expansion of life in all its forms. Explore a wide range of topics from biology to genetics and evolution.
Think you could beat a prehistoric woman in an arm wrestling match? Think again.
Saudi Arabian rock engravings could be the oldest artistic rendering of human-dog relationships ever discovered. It's certainly the oldest depiction of a leash.
In recent years, three mummified cubs from an extinct lion species have emerged from the Russian permafrost. Cloning might be possible, but is it wise?
New research suggests Neanderthals went extinct, not because we outcompeted them, but because we took over their ecological niche.
A groundbreaking study finds light skin pigmentation gene variations originating in Africa, eroding the notion of race as a biological characteristic, and shedding light on cancer and evolution, too.
Our instincts often tell us to do certain things — or avoid others — but we don't listen. Is this wise? How do we know when to obey our instincts?
A new study shows that belief in perceiving patterns correlated strongly with belief in conspiracy theories and the supernatural.
It's already a scary world. Why do we seek to experience more fear?
Fossils of a "missing link" may never be found, but new research shows apes' last common ancestor may have been smaller than previously thought.
Neanderthal genes may be to thank for your skin tone, hair color and even smoking habit.
Rabid fans may seem crazy, but there can be good reasons why they go all out for their favorite celebrity, sport or TV show.
Pretending to Be Batman Helps Kids Focus on Boring Tasks, Study Shows
The Batman Effect, as researchers have dubbed it, allows little ones to separate themselves from temptation and stay on task.
Mapping the genome of the King of Fruits reveals the source of its smell, and may present opportunities to develop pharmaceuticals.
We often think that if a drug has been studied by scientists and given a favorable outcome, then it must be safe and proven. But many kinds of biases can creep into a study, rendering it less than effective.
A series of studies showed that including the word 'sorry' in a rejection actually made the rejected person feel worse.
On the surface, Antarctica may seem like a barren landscape. But underneath, in massive ice caves, life may be abundant.
Although left-handed people were thought to be "sinister" or "unnatural" in previous eras, we now know that left-handedness is natural for 10 percent of the population. And it can have some advantages over right-handedness too.
Commercial Ancestry Tests Can Reveal How Much Neanderthal DNA You Have
At least two commercial DNA testing services offer users information on heritage coming from coupling between ancient humans and other species.
A recent letter in the journal Nature claims that access to ancient human remains should be more open, especially in light of advancements in analysis techniques.
The mass of microorganisms swarming inside your favorite elite athlete's body may be a great business opportunity.
An extensive study looks at personal space in 42 countries, and how weather affects preferences.
Over the course of one frigid winter, green anole lizards in Texas changed up their genetic makeup to help them better tolerate cold.
Is there a tendency to clockwise walks around the block? Why do sports favor counterclockwise rotation? Does anything have to do with handedness, or driving habits?
Artifacts Suggest Human Arrival in Australia 18,000 Years Earlier Than Thought
Researchers have deduced that Homo sapiens reached Australia 65,000 years ago, extending our presence Down Under by 10,000 years.
Forgetfulness may seem like an undesirable trait, but new research shows that memory loss is an essential brain function that can make us smarter.
