New research significantly advances our understanding of the brain mechanisms that link learning with flexible decision making. The study, published by Cell Press in the May 14th issue of the journal Neuron, demonstrates that the brain does not just learn the structure of the physical world but, through learning, encodes rules that regulate how we interpret future sensory information.

It is not surprising that as our economy continues its freefall, we are feeling increasingly more stressed and worried. Many of us are feeling extreme unease about the security of our jobs and being able to make our next mortgage payment.

Researchers at the University of Rochester have shown that the human brain—once thought to be a seriously flawed decision maker—is actually hard-wired to allow us to make the best decisions possible with the information we are given. The findings are published in today's issue of the journal Neuron.

As a way to help both the sick and their medical care providers to make the best healthcare decisions possible, a special section of the current November/December 2008 issue of Medical Decision Making examines three current evidenced-based theories that can help to improve assessments, assist in prevention programs, and help with intervention efforts.

Every day we are faced with a multitude of choices, but the majority of these fall into two categories: descriptive choice (based on what we are told) and experiential choice (based on our own personal experience).

Despite their strong impact on the marketplace, surprisingly little attention has been paid to the how superstitious beliefs impact decision making. A groundbreaking new study from the April issue of the Journal of Consumer Research examines the role of lucky and unlucky features and finds that consumers are more disappointed when a product that is supposedly “lucky” breaks.

Researchers have discovered the secrets to enhancing youth participation in school and community-based garden programs. A three-year study entitled "Greener Voices" proves that children will engage in learning more readily when given responsibility for decision making and planning.

The diagnosis has come in, and it’s not good. Worse, the patient has to choose from treatment options that are sometimes contradictory and risky. None of them promises complete success. How do patients make an informed decision, choosing the very best treatment for their own healthcare?

The Arizona State University Decision Theater is helping policy makers and community members explore issues ranging from the evironment and urban growth to education and health. The advanced visualization, simulation and modeling, and collaboration tools enable users to visualize possibilities and realize solutions.