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.
Getting the Gist Requires Expertise
August 21, 2019
When the trees block the view of the forest, the consequences can be dire. A recent paper in Policy Insights in the Behavioral and Brain Sciences looks at one component of the 2002 decision to invade Iraq as an example where policy makers had the details but not the context needed to make an informed decision on whether to invade. The paper also demonstrates how adherence to a concept known as Fuzzy Trace Theory could make sure future decisions are well advised and
read moreHouse Poised to Vote on Budget Deal Before Leaving for August Recess
July 25, 2019
At press time, the U.S. House of Representatives was poised to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2019, a budget deal that was reached at the beginning of the week. After months of deliberation, the House, Senate, and Administration reached a two-year budget deal to raise the caps and avoid defaulting on the national debt. Much of the negotiation has reportedly taken place between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
Congress
read moreLocating the Ignition for Motivation
July 25 2019
How much effort would you expend if you knew a reward was headed your way?
Michael Treadway, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Emory University, is looking at neural circuitry and why some people work hard for a known payoff while others do not.
Treadway’s research broadly focuses on people with mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia and their decisions to engage in certain behaviors—such as getting out of bed or off the couch. If
read moreHouse Passes STEM Legislation and Hears from OSTP Director and APA Leadership; Brain Research on Capitol Hill
July 25, 2019
On Wednesday,
July 24, the House of Representatives passed two bipartisan bills to support
science, technology, engineering and math. The Combatting Sexual Harassment in
Science Act, HR 36, would require federal agencies to implement policies for
preventing and handling sexual harassment. The Building Blocks of STEM Act, HR
1665, would direct the National Science Foundation to support STEM education
research focused on early childhood. Both bills have companion legislation