Why?

An Exploration of What Makes Us Curious

Mario Livio Ph.D.

The Hubble Ultra Deep Field. Almost 10,000 galaxies. Looking back to when the universe was less than a billion years old.

Symmetry and the Laws of Nature

You may not have known that symmetries are the bread and butter of fundamental physics.

On Symmetry and Aesthetics

A mathematician attempted in the 1930s to formulate a mathematical formula for the aesthetic pleasure.

Did Curiosity Really Kill the Cat?

Dictatorial regimes and narrow-minded ideologies attempt to forcibly suppress curiosity.

Science and Religion: Galileo and Einstein

The relation between science and religion is a topic that will likely continue to be discussed in the future.

On Scientific Blunders

Why do even the greatest scientists make blunders? Are there "brilliant blunders?"

On Science Denial

Denial of climate change and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic bet against the judgment of science. Human life is at stake.

An image of one creative individual (Richard Feynman) created by another (Vik Muniz)

Back to the Renaissance?

In a world of narrow specialization is there something still to be gained from broad knowledge and intense curiosity?

On the Lack of Empathy

Empathy may not be a panacea for all of society's problems, but it can help.

Galileo in Prison, by Romain Eugène Van Maldeghem. This painting is at Stedelijk Museum Sint-Niklaas in Belgium. Credit: Gerald

Galileo’s Trial: Fear Has Many Eyes

On the horrible effects of intimidation.

Why Do We Ask Why?

Curiosity fuels brain growth, and brain growth drives curiosity. And you wouldn't be so curious if your ancestors hadn't learned to cook.