Life: it's just a game. We've all heard that before, and as a philosophy to live by it's never felt too convincing. But now, scientists, psychologists and tech-heads are seeking to unleash the power of games, and impart new meaning to that old saying. Their idea is simple: games can be about much more than fun. They can help us to achieve cherished goals, solve grave real-world problems and lead more fulfilling lives. Earlier this year, the unofficial leader of the movement, the 34-year-old game designer and theorist Jane McGonigal, launched her online game Superbetter (www.superbetter.com). Conceived >>>

The animals that became domestic dogs speciated from the gray wolf about 15 millenia ago. Since then, our dogs have come to know us well. Dr. Deborah Custance and Jennifer Mayer, of the Department of Psychology at the University of London, sought to discover how well in an experiment chronicled in the May 30th issue of the journal Animal Cognition. What they discovered is that dogs are overwhelmingly more likely to approach people who exhibit visual and audial signs of distress, such as crying, than people who are talking, humming, or being quiet. And when dogs approach weeping humans, they will >>>

Psychologist, investment advisor, and author Walter F. Wild gives readers sound advice on savings and investment through his newest book Winning Investment Decisions. The book provides a psychological and financial perspective on investment strategy and market behavior. Dr. Wild gives his readers useful insight, especially in today’s economy, through experience gained in his own investment ventures. Wild’s book, Winning Investment Decisions, is a groundbreaking publication that provides readers with a unique perspective on the many opportunities and dangers that face investors today. >>>