Digest for 12/9/2025

What happens when technology knows more about us than we do? Poppy Crum shows how we can use second-generation 'empathics' — tech that reads physical signals of our feelings and states of mind — to better understand ourselves and each other, and build a more empathetic society.

Thomas Insel discusses how advancements in brain science and technology are transforming our approach to mental illnesses, paving the way for innovative treatments.

A handful of people working at a handful of tech companies steer the thoughts of billions of people every day, from running elections to what we see and think. Tristan Harris argues that technology is hijacking our attention and what we can do about it.

Dan Buettner shares insights from Blue Zones, regions where people live the longest, revealing nine common habits that promote longevity.

The Italian island of Sardinia has more than six times as many centenarians as the mainland and ten times as many as North America. Why? According to psychologist Susan Pinker, it's not a sunny disposition or a low-fat, gluten-free diet that keeps the islanders healthy -- it's their emphasis on close personal relationships and face-to-face interactions.

Cambridge researcher Aubrey de Grey argues that aging is merely a disease — and a curable one at that, outlining strategies to extend healthy human life.

For all that's ever been said about climate change, we haven't heard nearly enough about the psychological impacts of living in such an uncertain time. TED Fellow Britt Wray shares insights on 'climate grief' and how it affects our mental health.

Public health researcher Kristie Ebi explains how rising CO2 levels are reducing the nutritional value of staple crops, potentially leading to widespread malnutrition and health issues.

WHO's Maria Neira discusses how tackling climate change through clean energy and sustainable practices can prevent millions of deaths and improve public health worldwide.