Morality is not just any old topic in psychology but close to our conception of the meaning of life. Moral goodness is what gives each of us the sense that we are worthy human beings. Steven Pinker beingcloseconception Change image and share on social
Some people believe that the nuclear bomb should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, since it scared the major powers away from war by equating it with doomsday. Steven Pinker awardbombdoomsday Change image and share on social
Why is it surprising that scientists might have long hair and wear cowboy boots? In fields like neuroscience, where the events you are recording are so minute, I suspect scientists cultivate a boring, reliable image. A scientist with a reputation for flamboyance might be suspect. Steven Pinker bootborecowboy share on social
Cognitive psychology has shown that the mind best understands facts when they are woven into a conceptual fabric, such as a narrative, mental map, or intuitive theory. Disconnected facts in the mind are like unlinked pages on the Web: They might as well not exist. Steven Pinker cognitiveconceptualdisconnect share on social
I think that communism was a major force for violence for more than 100 years, because it was built into its ideology - that progress comes through class struggle, often violent. Steven Pinker buildclasscommunism Change image and share on social
Obviously no language is innate. Take any kid from any race, bring them up in any culture and they will learn the language equally quickly. So no particular language is in the genes. But what might be in the genes is the ability to acquire language. Steven Pinker abilityacquirebring share on social
Pre-state societies were far more violent than our own. Steven Pinker presocietystate Change image and share on social
The European wars of religion were more deadly than the First World War, proportionally speaking, and in the range of the Second World War in Europe. The Inquisition, the persecution of heretics and infidels and witches, they racked up pretty high death tolls. Steven Pinker deadlydeatheurope share on social
The stirrings of morality emerge early in childhood. Toddlers spontaneously offer toys and help to others and try to comfort people they see in distress. Steven Pinker childhoodcomfortdistress Change image and share on social
Technology, ideology, and social and cultural changes periodically throw out new forms of violence for humanity to contend with. Steven Pinker contendculturalform Change image and share on social
