The world’s going to hell, right? A full 71% of Britons say the world is getting worse. Actually, things may not be so bad – but research suggests we’re inclined to feel that way. We sit down with assistant professor of behavioural science Ed O’Brien to discuss the effects of negativity bias.

Indian actor Akshay Kumar is the world’s 80th top-earning celebrity according to Forbes, achieving this position through a string a box office hits and lucrative endorsement deals. But what makes this Bollywood hero so loved by fans and so sought-after by brands across the country?

In China, calling someone a diaosi – which directly translates as ’penis hair’ – isn’t an insult. On the contrary, millions of Chinese in dead-end jobs, with no car, house or girlfriend identify with the term, wearing it as a badge of honour. But could self-deprecation be a danger to society?

You’ve just won a pitch. A big one. But who actually wants to hear about it? Canvas8 sat down with Dr. Irene Scopelliti, co-author of ‘You Call It ‘Self-Exuberance’; I Call It ‘Bragging’’, to understand why we show off and why we underestimate the negative effects of self-promotion.