Conversation Piece, April 23, 2017
A weekly series.
Enjoy our Sunday series, Conversation Piece, a NUVO–curated digest of things on the Internet we think you’ll want to talk about.
*Smiley face emoji*. We smile when we’re happy—everyone knows that. But have you ever thought of all the other times you crack a grin? It turns out, of 19 different types of smiles, only six occur when we’re having a good time. Smiling can show embarrassment or maliciousness, it can take the edge off of bad news, or be a socially acceptable way of showing that we’re sad or in pain. The BBC delves into why we smile in unhappy situations, and how those expressions differ based on what we’re experiencing. Learn more, here.
Leisure studies. Back in 1930, British economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that by 2030, humankind’s key challenge would be determining what to do with all our spare time. In short—we wish, JMK. Nowadays, stress and busyness are epidemic, though countless studies suggest 40 hour work weeks are hindering productivity. Working less could boost creativity, result in fewer errors and accidents, cut Co2 emissions, and more—though honestly, we’re already sold on the idea. Find out more, here.
On that note. According to Michael Lewis, author of the bestsellers including Moneyball and The Big Short, laziness is in fact the key to success. Why? By being choosy about how you spend your time, you’re more likely to pursue projects that really matter, rather than whatever is at hand to keep you busy, thereby no longer “wasting time by trying not to waste time.” Read his insights, here.
The unlikeliest celebrity feud. An unexpected quarrel has emerged between beloved children’s entertainer Raffi Caviukian and Canadian indie super group the New Pornographers. Didn’t see that one coming—but it kind of makes sense? Raffi objects to the word “pornographer” being tossed around in front of children. In response, the New Pornographers’ frontman A.C. Newman tweeted about his hurt feelings. And then lightly trolled him. Welcome to Canada. Get the details, here.
_________
Never miss a story. Sign up for NUVO’s weekly newsletter.
