FABBS reports on items of interest to many communities – scientists, policymakers, and the public. In our news, you will see updates on science funding and policy, articles that translate research for policy, and descriptions of the research contributions of scientists at all stages of their research careers.
Driving Decisions Towards Truthfulness and Conscience
November 12, 2020
David Rand, PhD
If someone knocked on your door and tried to sell you solar panels, how likely might you be to buy them?
What if you learned the sales representative had those very same panels installed on his own house?
David Rand, associate professor of Management Science and Brain and Cognitive Sciences at MIT, studies why people make choices, particularly those that benefit the greater good. Rand is a recipient of a 2020 Federation of Associations in
read moreNSF Releases Two Dear Colleague Letters, Opportunities for FABBS Scientists
November 12, 2020
Earlier this month, the National Science Foundation (NSF) released a Dear Colleague Letter: Strengthening American Infrastructure (SAI). This is an important opportunity for FABBS members as NSF is particularly interested in proposals that integrate a deep understanding of human cognition, perception, information processing, decision making, social and cultural behavior and related areas into the design, development, and sustainability of infrastructure. (Also see
read moreSenate Releases Budget for FY 2021, CR Expires on December 11
November 12, 2020
With the election behind us, a lame duck Congress will need to return to Washington to finish up the budget for fiscal year (FY) 2021 that started on October 1. The government has been operating under a continuing resolution (CR) that expires on December 11, 2020. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) had told reporters Wednesday that he wants a deal on the next coronavirus relief bill by the end of the year. However, the House and Senate are still very far apart
read moreWhat the Outcome of the Election Means for Science
November 12, 2020
On Saturday, November 8, President-elect Joseph R. Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris addressed the nation, both mentioning the importance of science in their brief remarks. In his transition documents, Biden has identified four priorities: COVID-19, Economic Recovery, Racial Equality, and Climate Change. For each of these priority areas, the administration would be well served to consider what we have learned from the behavioral and cognitive sciences.
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