“Those who can make you believe in absurdities can make you commit atrocities” (Voltaire 1763). Science may seem far from creativity, but that is not always true. In the past, many scientific experiments were public performances. Anatomical dissections could be witnessed in a theater by purchasing a ticket, and many physics demonstrations were conducted in public squares in front of crowds. Anyone could personally witness a scientific experiment rather than just read about it in a book. As for the social sciences, ancient Greek dramas were initially conceived as entertainment and therapeutic exercises. By exploring intense emotions and the strengths and weaknesses of characters, audiences learn to see these traits in themselves. The Greeks considered catharsis a vital therapeutic tool—"purification" or "cleansing," often referring to releasing emotions through their expression. Today, we see the close relationship between Philip Zimbardo...
Making people, things, spaces and the world healthier