Science Archives

Public Trust in Science Is Waning—Why This Is Dangerous

A doctor putting a shot in a person's arm.

Why has there been a sudden decrease in confidence in science? How could the distrust of science endanger individuals and the country? The public’s trust in science has dropped sharply over the last few years. This trend has people from all sides of the political spectrum, and in fields ranging from medicine to public policy, concerned about the future of progress in the United States. Here are some possible reasons why trust in science is waning.

The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben: Book Overview

A woman sitting against a tree reading in a forest.

How do trees cooperate with each other? Are trees sentient? What sustainable forestry practices can help protect forests? In The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben, he delves deep into the world of old-growth forests, unveiling secret interactions, intricate networks, and fascinating behaviors among trees. The book emphasizes the importance of conserving these vital ecosystems and seeing them as living entities. Continue reading for an overview of Wohlleben’s book, including key takeaways and actionables.

How Trees Communicate With Chemical Signals, Smells, & Sounds

A tree blowing in the wind in an open field.

Do trees speak? What’s the “wood wide web”? Why do trees produce different smells? According to forester Peter Wohlleben in The Hidden Life of Trees, trees have their own unique form of communication. Trees can warn one another of dangers, ask for help, and may even be able to sense their surroundings through a form of echolocation. Keep reading to learn more about how trees communicate.

Are Trees Sentient? 3 Pieces of Evidence That Show They Are

A wise face carved into a tree in a forest, symbolizing sentient trees.

Are trees sentient? How does their sentience compare to human consciousness? In what ways do trees have personalities? Peter Wohlleben, forester and author of The Hidden Life of Trees, claims that he has evidence that trees are sentient. Wohlleben says trees can learn, they have a sense of time, and they have distinct personalities. Let’s dive further into each piece of evidence.

Why Forests Are Important to the Planet, Humans, & Biodiversity

Why are forests so important to the global ecosystem? What role do forests play in regulating the climate? Why do so many species rely on forests? We all know trees are important, but in his book The Hidden Lives of Trees, Peter Wohlleben explains just how crucial forests are to life on Earth. Trees help water move around the planet, mitigate climate change by storing carbon dioxide, provide habitats for animals and plants, and more. Continue reading to learn why and how forests are important to life on Earth.

Pros and Cons of Quantum Computing: Worth the Risks?

What is a quantum computer? What can quantum computers do that normal computers can’t? Why are quantum computers potentially dangerous? In November 2022, IBM unveiled its 433 qubit powerful Osprey processor, marking a significant step toward revolutionary quantum computing systems. Quantum computing promises to solve problems currently deemed insurmountable by classical computing. But it could also threaten existing encryption systems and exacerbate digital divides. Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of quantum computing.

2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) Overview

What are the key takeaways from the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference? How have global stakeholders responded to the outcomes? Is the deal enough to thwart global warming’s threats? The recent UN Climate Summit (COP28) in Dubai ended with a historic agreement, for the first time calling on nations to transition away from fossil fuel use. Critics argue the deal doesn’t go far enough, citing the pact’s weak language and support for transitional fuels and carbon capture technologies. Here’s a look at how the 2023 Conference of Parties went down.

Symbiosis in Nature: How Trees Cooperate With Other Species

An image representing symbiosis in nature as a large tree protects a sapling.

In what ways do trees cooperate with one another and other species? How do trees protect human communities from danger? Unlike many other forms of life, trees of different species work together to create a communal living space. Thanks to the cooperation of trees, forests are able to maintain a sustainable ecosystem. Keep reading to understand more about how symbiosis in nature works.

Quotes From The Hidden Life of Trees (With Explanations)

A man sitting against a tree in the woods as he reads a book.

Are you looking for quotes from The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben? What can this book teach you about the importance of protecting forests? In The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben draws on scientific research to shed light on the ways trees interact with their environment and one another. Amid deforestation and climate change, understanding the intricate lives of trees offers insights into their innate value and why it’s important to protect them. Here’s a selection of the best quotes from the book along with explanations.

What Is the Winter Solstice & Why Does It Matter So Much?

What is the winter solstice? What makes the winter solstice the shortest, darkest day of the year? Why have humans marked the occasion since prehistory? Each year, the astronomical winter begins with the shortest day of the year: the winter solstice, the day with the fewest hours of sunlight. In the northern hemisphere, the winter solstice occurs every year on December 21 or 22. After that point, the days begin to grow longer. Here’s a look at what the winter solstice actually is and why it’s so historically and culturally significant.