humanities and social sciences
Most State Pension Plans Paper Over Unfunded Liabilities
An analysis of state pension plans from across the country finds that the already troubling state of pension finances may be even worse than it first appears because many pension managers are making their plan’s financial condition look better by perpetually putting off payments.
Giving Families a Voice in North Carolina’s Child Welfare System
Children are among the most vulnerable members of society, and NC State’s Kara Allen-Eckard is helping to lead an effort to better serve at-risk children and their families in North Carolina.
You May Be A Scientist And Not Know It
Science is a process, not a collection of facts. (Though the facts are pretty interesting.)
Field of ‘Sexting’ Research Finds Little to Worry About
A recent analysis of research into how so-called “sexting” may affect sexual behavior finds that it has little impact on sexual activity – but highlights significant shortcomings in the research itself.
Study: ‘Moral Enhancement’ Technologies Are Neither Feasible Nor Wise
Recent study finds “moral enhancement technologies” are neither feasible nor wise, based on an assessment of existing research.
Increasing Monetary Penalties in NC’s Justice System May Cost Taxpayers
Monetary sanctions designed to help fund the justice system may actually cost state and local governments more than they bring in.
Daily Stress Can Trigger Uptick in Illegal Drug Use for Those on Parole, Probation
A recent study finds that even small, day-to-day stressors can cause an increase in illegal drug use among people on probation or parole who have a history of substance use.
Study Offers Hope, Sheds Light on How Vets Respond to Trauma
A study of military veterans who went through trauma finds that those who have related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also more likely to experience “post-traumatic growth” – such as an increased appreciation of life, awareness of new possibilities and enhanced inner strength.
Critical Thinking Instruction in Humanities Reduces Belief in Pseudoscience
A new study finds that teaching critical thinking skills in a humanities course significantly reduces student beliefs in “pseudoscience” that is unsupported by facts.
The Importance of African-American Speech: Q&A With Walt Wolfram
Linguistics scholar Walt Wolfram reflects on the importance of understanding and appreciating African-American speech -- a subject he has been devoted to for more than five decades.